FAQ

What is an Allocations Scheme?

Every Local Authority has a legal duty to publish their Housing Allocation Scheme, as set out in Section 166A of the Housing Act 1996.  
This policy sets out how we allocated homes, both council housing and Registered Provider properties, to applicants. 

What is the current housing situation in Westminster?

We are currently facing a housing crisis, both nationally and locally in Westminster. Sadly, the demand for social housing far exceeds the amount of homes that become available. This means that those currently on our waiting lists are likely to face significant waiting times for an allocation of social housing, and the list continues to grow as the Council receives an ever-increasing number of applications. 

We currently have over 5000 people on our housing register, the waiting list for those registered for an allocation of social housing. Typically, around 700 homes become available to allocate each year. Nearly 70% of these homes are studios and 1-bedroom properties, including Community Supportive Housing (CSH) for older people. This means we have severe shortages in family-sized accommodation. Westminster City Council also has over 3000 families and single people in temporary accommodation.

Given these pressures on our housing stock, it is vital that our Housing Allocations Scheme is as fair, effective and transparent as possible. By completing our consultation survey you are helping us to do that.

Why are you changing the policy now? 

Westminster has not made any significant changes to it's Allocations Scheme since 2011. Although the new Scheme will not impact the amount of houses available, we hope the new Scheme will provide transparency on how we allocate social housing and be an easier Scheme to understand. 

We aim to update our scheme to align with the Council's strategic commitments and the priorities of our communities.

What do any upcoming changes mean for people on the housing register?

The nature of the review means some aspects of our Allocations Scheme will change. Changes to the Scheme will mean there may be amendments to how we prioritise. 

As part of our community engagement and public consultation, we aim to gather feedback from as many people as possible, ensuring that any changes are driven and informed by our residents and partners. 

We will thoroughly assess the impact of all potential changes through our Equalities Impact Assessment and ensure these are effectively communication with our residents and partners. 

Where can I get support filling out the questionnaire?

If you need assistance filling out the survey or require an additional translation service, feel free to visit one of our team members during our drop-in sessions. You don't need to worry about bringing electronic devices; we will provide access to laptops. Head over to the main page to see details of upcoming events. 

• Victoria Library (160 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9TR) on Monday 5th February between 5pm - 7pm.
  
  
• Pimlico Library (Lupus Street, Pimlico, London SW1V 3AT) on Wednesday 7th February between 10.00am - 12.00pm. 
  
  
• Queens Park Library (666 Harrow Road, London W10 4NE) on Tuesday 13th February between 09.30am - 11.30am. 
  
  
• Paddington Library (Porchester Road, London W2 5DU) on Thursday 15th February between 12pm - 2pm. 
  
  
• Church Street Library (67 Church Street London NW8 8EU) on Tuesday 20th February between 4.30pm - 7pm. 
  
  
• Bessborough Family Hub (1 Bessborough Street, Westminster, SW1V 2JD) on Thursday 22nd February between 10am - 12pm.

Who can I speak to about my current housing situation?

Please head over to our website: Housing | Westminster City Council for further details.