As part of the recent review of the Council’s Allocation policy additional preference/exemption was awarded to members of the Armed Forces and their families in regard to the Local Connection criteria.  These groups are exempt from having to demonstrate a local connection and are able to join the housing waiting list.

However, having reviewed other Local Authorities’ Allocations Policies it has demonstrated that we need to consider providing additional support to members of the Armed Forces community by publishing a supplementary document alongside the Council’s Allocation Policy.

The supplementary document, in the short term will address the immediate housing issues members of the Armed Forces community face, while in the long term further consideration can be made in a commitment to an Armed Forces Community Covenant.

A motion was MOVED by Cllr Carter and SECONDED by Cllr McCheyne to received the recommendation set out in the report.

RESOLVED UNANMIOUSLY to agree:

2.1 That approval is given to Option 3 to develop a tailored Housing

       Advice Service aimed to address the needs of the Armed Forces Community.