With high demand for council homes and social housing in the area, the allocations policy update makes sure available homes go to those in the greatest housing need.

The previous Housing Allocations Policy was updated to address issues relating to applicants who have an urgent housing need, and to make best use of housing stock and increase turnover and meet demand. A public consultation on the proposals ran between 13 September and 27 October 2023.

The changes will:

• Award points to applicants who are transferring as part of the tenant downsizing incentive scheme
• Award points to applicants who experience domestic abuse and who have an urgent housing need
• Increase the points for applicants who are key workers
• Remove the award of need to reside points
• Award points for care and support
• Amend the criteria for the award of functional assessment points
• Prioritise under-occupation of social housing points to transfer applicants
• Extend the timeframe for the award of points for the loss of tied accommodation.

The Allocations Policy also ensures veterans are not at a disadvantage when applying for housing, particularly in relation to time spent outside of Moray as part of their Service career. This is in recognition of Moray Council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.

Committee chair, Councillor Amber Dunbar, said she was pleased the committee had unanimously approved Moray Council’s new Housing Allocations Policy. She said: “While we’re building more council homes, we simply can’t keep up with the demand.

“Ensuring homes go to people who need them most is part of our wider programme of work to improve housing support for residents. I thank the housing staff for their efforts to put this policy together based on their invaluable knowledge and experience.”