A new housing system and website is being rolled out across Kent to create a more user-friendly service for people on the housing register.
The system, which will be run by provider Huume, will go live in July 2023 and have a new look, be more streamlined and easier to navigate, while still providing the same service.
Once launched, applicants will continue to log into their accounts and be able to view and bid on properties in the Dover district as and when they become available, the same as they do now.
To move from the current system to the new one, however, it is essential that any new applications to the housing register are suspended for a month while outstanding ones are completed and data moved over.
This will happen from June 1, 2023, and Dover District Council is suggesting applicants wanting to apply to the register put in new applications well before this date. The register will resume on July 1, 2023.
The process for people who find themselves unexpectedly homeless or requiring housing options advice during that month will still be in place.
For anyone that needs to apply urgently during June, DDC will provide a telephone service to enable this and the number will be published on the council’s website.
At a meeting today (January 16), Cabinet members approved the temporary suspension of the housing register in June to allow for the new system to be implemented.
The roll-out of the new system is being led by DDC in its role as lead authority of Kent Homechoice, a partnership of 13 local authorities, 28 housing associations and Kent County Council, which was set up to provide a way to apply for affordable and social housing.
For more information about the housing register or to submit an application go to www.dover.gov.uk/housing/home.aspx
In accordance with Dover District Council’s Constitution, executive decisions made by Cabinet are subject to call-in by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee.
The period for call-in expires four working days after the record of decision is published.
The information contained in this press statement may be subject to further review and changes and may not reflect the final decision.
Posted on 16 January 2023