Right To Buy Extension Delayed By Brexit Vote

The Right to Buy extension to housing association tenants is set to be delayed due to the EU referendum result, according to the CLG official leading on the scheme. Guidelines for the voluntary Right to Buy programme now have no fixed publication deadline for coming out, as civil servants prioritise dealing with the uncertainty brought about by a new government and the Brexit vote. Officials had hoped to publish guidelines within the next six months. Further details of the government’s position on the subject will come out with the Autumn Statement on 23 November.  Read more on Inside Housing.

Universal Credit – Parliamentary Written Answer

Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what his most recent assessment is of the preparedness of future applicants for universal credit to submit their applications online; and if he will make a statement.

Mr Hoban: A survey of existing claimants found 78% already use the internet and 74% have a home broadband connection. All our products are being developed using the DWP guidelines for level of literacy required of between nine and 13 years of age and to be compliant with disability legislation. This will ensure that online services are accessible to the vast majority of users. We are also taking the opportunity to simplify the language we use. Jobcentre Plus advisers are helping people who lack the skills or confidence to use online services to develop their digital skills, often in partnership with local charities, libraries and businesses. The Department has installed a total of 2,167 new Internet Access Devices (IADs) in Jobcentres for those who do not have their own computer, and we will ensure that digital skills are a key part of the support offered to jobseekers to help them back to work.

Stunell Wants Tenants Involved In ALMO Decisions

Councils must consult tenants when reviewing housing management arrangements, the communities minister has said. Despite government reluctance to give councils instructions, Andrew Stunell has published updated guidance to local authorities considering bringing their ALMOs back in house. ALMOs were originally set up to access Decent Homes funding, but a number of the original management agreements are drawing to a close. So far, eight ALMOs have been brought back in house, with several more expected to finalise decisions shortly. Download a copy of the guidance from the National Federation of ALMOs website.