Consultations

Let's Talk

A new system to decide who gets housing

Tower Hamlets Council has launched a proposed new Lettings Policy for public consultation, which will change the way housing is allocated for people on the borough’s housing list.

A recent review showed that many of the 22,000 applicants on the housing list were unable to trust the current Lettings Policy because they found it difficult to understand, prompting the Council and its Housing Association Partners to design a new approach.

Overcrowding is a major challenge in our borough...Councillor Marc Francis, Lead Member for Housing and Development, said: “Overcrowding is a major challenge in our borough and the council is working hard to improve people’s situation by buying and building more homes. But we also want to make sure that we are allocating these homes in the best way possible.

“The council and our Housing Association partners are proposing several changes to the Lettings Policy because we want to find a better and more transparent way to decide how applicants are prioritised and who will be offered housing.

“At the heart of this new approach is the proposal to give higher priority to the length of time people have been on the housing list. We think a date order queue within each band is a fairer system for everyone and people will be able to better understand where they are on the housing list and their chances of being housed.

“This new Lettings Policy won’t create any additional housing – the council has released a separate housing strategy that explains how we will be increasing the amount of homes in the borough – but we want to create a fairer and simpler system for everyone involved in applying for a home.

“We really want to hear people’s feedback on the ideas being proposed before the policy is finalised. I encourage people who are on the housing list to get involved in the consultation and have their say.”

Brochures detailing the revised Lettings Policy are available at One Stop Shops and local housing offices and can be downloaded from the Download box on this page. There is also a short survey for people to complete and submit with their feedback which can also be downloaded, or you can complete it online by clicking here.

Tower Hamlets Council will be running public consultation sessions throughout November. Information on venues and session times is available on these pages.

Downloads

Download the brochure

Download the survey

Take the survey online

If you would like more information, advice or to tell us what you think please call 020 7364 2826 or email lettings@towerhamlets.gov.uk

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Comments

Re: Let's Talk

24/10/2009 19:05:14 by shams uddin

i think the current choice based lettings is a fair system and i have no much information on this propasal rather than giving more priority to have been on the list long enough but would that alone could not compensate for other issues such as overcrowding and needs according to community groups , just being on the list for long should not be a lone factor for being housed and there should be a choice and serous aproach to whether the current system should be changed , let the people decide or a vote if the current system choice based lettings shoud be changed . as strongly feel its fairer !

Re: Let's Talk

24/10/2009 19:29:45 by ashraf uddin

hi i think the current choice based lettings is fine and the new proposed leetings is almost the same as one thing i strongly diagree with is i should have the right to choose a smaller home then what i require for example i require a 3 bed but under this letting policy i can bid for a 2 bed and thats my choice so if people are willing to take smaller homes than i dont see why u should restict this as there are cases where people are living in extreme overcrowding for example i have to live with my family on a 2 bedroom flat with my parents and brother so if i decide to bid for a 2 bed while im eligable for a 3 bed i think anyone will be better off than sharing a 2 bedroom flat with 8 people living and having to move your family to a 2 bed . so that type of choice should be respected and and not be resrticted under the new policy i hope you take this into consideration and people should be allowed to bid for as many as properties they want in one word i think it shoud remain the same as it currntly is !

Re: Let's Talk

25/10/2009 12:14:48 by mr miah

i think people should be allowed to bid for a smaller property than they need atleast giving up one bedroom as this would tackle people who are living in overcrowded conditions and save waiting times for a larger home as theres shortage of it . so i dont think this should be restricted as this current system allows it and if people choose to take a smaller home than its their choice and should be respected please note i dont mean taking a smaller home for example somene who needs a 3 bed cant apply for and will not bid for 1 bed unless theyre insane , but instead bid for 2 bed that seems reasonblle to me and i emphasize that it should be allowed once the new policy comes into force

Re: Let's Talk

27/10/2009 15:44:23 by Glen Ocsko

Thanks for all of these comments, they really are useful! Be sure to fill out the survey, which you can also do online at http://bit.ly/1x110f

You can also discuss all of this in our forum.

Glen Ocsko, Participation and Engagement Officer

Re: Let's Talk

27/10/2009 15:44:45 by Glen Ocsko

Re: Let's Talk

28/10/2009 16:29:52 by morin

I dont thing its fair at moment. I think people cheat the system They have people they know at cuncill they have doctors they now to issue them any letter they need all sort of things going around... I don`t trust the current system....

Re: Let's Talk

28/10/2009 17:10:48 by Abul

Hi, Current lettings policy is ok, but I feel it should take into account the length you have been waiting. I've been waiting for over 7 years! and I can't get a straight answer out of anyone as to how long I am going to wait or how my bids are progressing.

Also consideration has to be given to people who work, we cannot drop work on the day to view a property! I was called up once, I was very busy at work and had to say no, as they wanted me to view in the afternoon!!!

The other gripe is that all new builds have this living/kitchen in one, this to me feels like the builders are cost cutting as it saves them a room, and this type of accommodation is inappropriate for families with small children as the kitchen is a dangerous place and statistics show that children tend to have serious accidents in kitchens!!! Someone in the council is giving the green light to these types of development and they seriously need to think careful as to what they are doing...

Also the whole part-buy part-rent scheme needs looking at again, how can this be affordable if the min income is 30k and your mortgage and rent works out to 1200pcm, that is more then 60% of your income! it just doesn't work and is another scam.

Re: Let's Talk

28/10/2009 20:29:14 by Tahir Miah

how come the council wash there hands off people when they are put into housing association homes.And grants on giving up homes to buy property of choice are only for council tenants not housing association tenants, whne all are contribuiting ie council tax please reply thanks

Re: Let's Talk

28/10/2009 21:25:35 by ree

I think the current based lettings system is ridiculous. I have been on the wait list for 3 years, I have a 1 year old and a new born baby, i live with my mum in a small room that i share with my 2 14 year old sisters and my 2 children, I think its also unfair that when vewing a property you view it with 4-5 other people and dont even get a 1st choice, its only if you are picked as number 1 on the list. Needs to be changed.

Re: Let's Talk

28/10/2009 23:22:43 by Emily

What i dont like about the letting services is that they have speacial people they reserved a particular properties for why i said this is because there are a lot of empty houses yet it takes years and one has not gotten any offer.Secondly when they are given offer,they should consider families with little children by not given them property that have living/kitchen in one or given them tall building knowing very well is not save for the kids.So if they will stik on their policy without doing i know you,that will fine.

Re: Let's Talk

29/10/2009 10:40:41 by Amanda

Well I have been on the housing for 15 years and am glad things are finally changing. The current system is very unfair as I know of people who have lied and have been given housing within months of being on the housing reg. I live with my mum and sleep on the setee with my young baby in a travel cot. There is no room know my baby has come along. i have been to the council lots of times and they just fob me off and tell me to go to the homless if im am that desperate. Plus I have bidded for housing and sometimes this has NOT been noted. I dont trust the council housing system one bit.

Re: Let's Talk

29/10/2009 21:53:37 by Mrs Lyli Begum

I strongly think letting team should look at how long you have been in the waiting list.As I have been in the waiting list for 8 years,an just because Ido not have children an living with my parents I do not have any piroties.But I am entitle for my own flat. Looking at the waiting time for applicant can make a big difference. But seriously think Letting team are discriminating people who do not have any piroties.

Re: Let's Talk

29/10/2009 23:13:54 by A Joanes

I am totally frustrated and angry about the whole system. I have been on the housing list for over 3 years now., everyweek I wait for a phone call from the council..I am privately renting 1 bedroom flat with 2 children who are under 5., we cant afford to move to a 2 bed as we are in debt and have no money. I have shed endless tears going to one stop shops, homeless...everywhere I can think of with no hope. I have recently been advised by council staff to bid for 6th floor and above..or if we cant afford rent, we should think of moving to a single room with 2 kids ..or I dont stand a chance in few years to come??? yet people manage to get housing within months...how come...I do not understand this..

Re: Let's Talk

29/10/2009 23:16:28 by A Joanes

Re: Let's Talk

29/10/2009 23:55:21 by Mr Miah

The proposed changes might be a step in the right direction, especially if length of time on the waiting list is taken into considertion.

What we need is more transparency. One of my friend who resides in Southwark, their bidding system actually shows where your bids have come in & how many people bid for a property, among other detailed information. I was amazed at how advanced their biding system was, compared to ours. With Tower Hamlets, you bid & unless you are successful, you have no idea where your bids have come in. This creates an impression that the systems favours some over others, because there is no transparency.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 00:11:00 by Fatma Guerra

we all hope it works; and wish to know further more about the new scheme.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 08:12:38 by Mrs Campbell

I have been on the current system for serveral years now and I have only been offered 1 property which I didn't actually bid for. When I went for the interview I was told it was a 2 bedroom townhouse, oh how different it was when we went to view it. It was actually a 2 bed third floor flat that was a smaller property to the one I am currently in. Hence to say I didn't accept the offer and since have never been offered another (that was over 3 years ago). This certainly is an unfair system and hopefully the new one will be better. I want a ground floor property and have been told that these are only given to people with medical needs. What a load of rubbish it seems certain people get the houses, who might I add don't always have any underlying medical needs. A fact which I know to be true as I know alot of these people as friends and know they don't have any underlying medical problems. I also know of some people who have moved several times on the old system, how can this be?
A fairer system should have been introduced years ago.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 08:31:45 by S.Begum

Hi,
To be honest the current system is o.k. because you get to choose the house, but I also feel that viewing a property with a group of other people is rather silly...you take the time out (of work!) to go and view a house, only to find it was a waste of time because you are not number 1...is there any point going if you are number 4?
This new proposal of being given priority based on the number of years....well lets wait and see how that goes shall we... I've been on the list with my elderly mother for over 5yrs now, adn all I keep getting told is 'keep bidding' - it's like their catcchphrase! With the current backlog of people who have been on the list for a day and an age..... I dont know how it will work! Im very sceptical.
Point that was made by someone about there being corruption.... we can say it all we want but it will only fall on deaf ears - unless you know someone!

whats more bidding for these new build homes is almost impossible, I have been unable to bid for a number of houses simply because there is no parking...

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 10:10:55 by Dwayne

About time! This bidding system has been useless from the day it was brought in I personally do not know of anyone actually being allocated anything they have bidded for! Ive been on the waiting list for 7 years and Im still bidding every week without a chance! I was recently told not to even bother bidding for a ground floor because I didnt have a chance!!!!! It seems to me that this sytem is swayed towards families and us single people can just wait and wait and wait....... Bottom line if your single and of a certain age - forget it no chance!!!!!!! Im sick of people who have been on the list 5 minutes being given priority over us who have been waiting for years - about time it changed!!!!

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 11:26:22 by Terence Selby

I am severely disabled and need a category one disability access property. These are woefully short and too few are being built in the borough of Tower Hamlets. Many of those that are being allocated erroneously to people that do not need them backed up by dubious medical evidence. The housing department is too fragmented and needs streamlining. Many people with special needs are disadvantaged, because there is a lack of will or are too difficult for inadiquately trained staff to deal with. I have been waiting several years and expect to wait for many to come before I am allocated an appropriately adapted property. A coordinator for people with who require specialised housing is needed, because it seems that the left-hand does not know what the right hand is doing in regard to the current housing situation.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 12:23:54 by RAFIQUL ISLAM

i feel the current lettings policy is very unfair. The new policy will also be unfair. Reason being, my application is in group 4. And i have been told that i will never be offered a property as i am in group 4. The policy needs to be changed to a fairer system - which does not have these group 1-4 categories. I have been penalised just because my landlord has not joined your common housing register!! Very unfair & silly! Being in Group 4 is basically being blacklisted!!! I hope this grouping policy is changed/phased out. Thank you

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 12:51:39 by N Miah

I'm Glad to hear that the system will be more transparent, but we will still be in the dark as to what position we came in once we have bidded for a property via the home seekers website, as a suggestion why not include data such as what group we fall in and what was the last ranking we came in (when we log in to bid for properties?) this might improve the trust issue that you currently have, Please let us know what you think of this idea?

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 12:54:36 by A. Hussain

I have been on the old system and been on the current bidding system(total of 12 years) and havent been successful at all. It's very unfair system and needs radical change. The application is looked on what information you give which needs to be verified rather than someone coming and inspecting and assessing your needs.I was on the housing register since I was a university student 1997 and now have a family with one child and still bidding. I have written to the council about severe overcrowding(me, wife and child in small room) the response I get is look for private properties. If i could afford it I would never been on the social housing list. Thank you for all the grief!

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 13:15:59 by Shajna Khatun

Im glad to see that overcrowding has been given some priority.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 14:14:48 by BASHIR

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 14:24:55 by Shajna Khatun

Im glad to see that overcrowding has been given some priority.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 16:38:52 by Ripa Begum

I have been on the housing register for 4 years now. i am living at a flat with 4 bedrooms and four families living together so there are 14 people living in 1 flat altogether. I think the system we have at the moment is a load of rubbish especially when you are offered a house and have to go and view the property by their time only to find the first applicant has chosen it, was there any point having 4 people viewing the property. i think the system is unfair and if you try speaking to them they are so rude and think they are above everyone else or all they say is keep bidding your almost there. Another thing whats with all the car free zones, thats the most unfair thing of all, what do you do if you have a car which 85% of the people do. they make it sound like as if you have a choice but really you dont. please this system of yours really needs HELP and looking into seriously.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 18:00:13 by B kumar

Present system of houing allocation is very unfair.this only encourage people to make more children who speally on govt benefit . people should be given priority upon length of their application ,regardless how many children they have ,as long as they have one . I personally believe it is their problem to make too many children while they are living in one bedroom accommodation .

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 18:49:58 by Protima Dasgupta

Please leave the current system as it is as individual frequent bidds are taken into consideration.(feedback from friends and reletive who successfully obtained 1 bedroom flat after waiting couple of years) I dont agree with 3 viewers viewing properties as its waste of time. People giving priorities with date of registration would get the system no where.

Re: Let's Talk

30/10/2009 19:09:51 by Ola

introducing new system will not solve our problems yet we do know who they give more priority to

Re: Let's Talk

31/10/2009 00:22:24 by Pauline

The whole system needs a great overhall. They need to start listening to what applicants needs are.
I have been on the waiting list for over 14 years waiting for a 1 bedroom property. My partner and I live separately and he has a daughter that would like to spend time with us but we can not bid for a 2 bedroomed property. When you contact housing they take weeks to reply to you and when they finally do what they say deosnt help you one bit. They can never seem to tell you where you are on the waiting list. Even though they want to place people in categories thay still need to look at each application separately. Certain people lie to jump to queue and certain people havent been on the waiting list that long and they get housed which is not fair to ohers in need. So many new properties are being built but only a small percentage is being offered to those on the waiting list. With the part-buy part-rent system on new builds people can still not afford to purchase a home. We would like a ground floor property with a garden but we dont stand much of a chance of getting one. Why doesnt the council build new homes for elderly, disabled and medical that are specially adapted. Why cant very young single applicants be offered bedsits and older singles or couples with no children be offered 1 bedroom. They need to build larger accomadation for those who are badly over crowded. Why cant some of those big rich companies in canary wharf help the local community by giving money to help the housing crisis of tower hamlets.By helping with housing they can help with unemployment so that more people from this area may be able to afford part-buy part-rent and community centers to get the kids of the street. Lets hope that this change helps myself and many other people.

Re: Let's Talk

31/10/2009 18:57:20 by george

iam very angry ,when i go to council office to make enquiries regarding my housing application ,only to know keep bidding until you get one .on the other hand until you die .there is no trust at all on this present system .this system only for someone who had loads of kids who don'thve to wait long and know someone in the system.my point is people should be given priority based on how long they are waiting in the list not how many children they had .Then we shouldn'n create severe overcrowding in the first place . It is very very unfair to punish people who use their commonsense not to make too many kids who can not accommodate them .I sincerely believe the new proposed system will introduce sooner rather than later . thank you

Re: Let's Talk

31/10/2009 23:06:05 by amina begum

i think that the tower hamlets housing services are rubbish, firstly you cant even view where you are on the bidding list and secondly you have an average waiting list of 5 YEARS!!! i feel that this very unfair because i have seen how other bidding systems work i.e. southwark!! my mum lives in southwark and has just moved into a new flat 2 years ago and have also been bidding for a bigger property and have been offered 6 properties since then!! i feel that tower hamlets need to look into other bidding systems and improve their own..i have been on the waiting list for almost 3 years and am expecting my 2nd child, unfortunately will have to sleep with both of my kids in a small room!!!

Re: Let's Talk

31/10/2009 23:35:27 by hussain

i hope that the new service is better and considers applicants with children and other priorities, they also need to change the minimum 5 year waiting as this is very unfair to people who have been waiting. i understand that tower hamlets has a high demand on properties but personally feel that we are being ignored!!

Re: Let's Talk

01/11/2009 01:07:24 by Lisa

I think the new system would be better, because ive been on the housing list for 7 yrs and still had no offers,i live with my mum, and my nan and im sharing a bedroom with my 8yr old son and i think its rediculous the way the system is at the moment, i should'nt be sharing a room with my son as i need my privacy.

Re: Let's Talk

01/11/2009 11:03:58 by Sherin

I am glad the council is working towards a greater transparency and has recognised this as a major problem. I hope this continues after the 2010 elections.

I don't think the issue is about prioritising length of time or overcrowding - it is a bit of both. Some people may be waiting longer - but their need is not as great as others who have been waiting for less time. A fairer system would be one that takes both into account - if someone has been waiting long, they should be given priority, but take into account and put into place a point based system that accounts for people's circumstances which accelerates the process for them.

Re: Let's Talk

01/11/2009 17:11:44 by Mr Ben Nyombi

Most people like changes as they may lead to new developments in life. Lets hope these changes will mostly be based on major cases first e.g Overcrowded families which's a danger to young ones,People who've got Highblood pressure,Diabetes etc and are in shared houses and yet some of these people are working and can provide for themselves and can pay all necessary bills but have been on housing list for so long. We're all looking forward to the most considerate changes.

Re: Let's Talk

02/11/2009 09:34:19 by M St hill

I have been on the housing list for over 14yrs and bidding for 10yrs.I have had all sorts of problems with my property which they know about and do nothing but repair. Overcrowding is also a problem i have been bidding for 3 bedroom properies cause i know thats what i am entitled too. I hope that this new system will help the long term people still waiting

Re: Let's Talk

02/11/2009 09:37:12 by Mena Begum

I think this is a great idea as there are many people who have been on the waiting list for years who have not been offered a home. This is a much fair system.

Re: Let's Talk

02/11/2009 11:05:53 by shahara Khatun

The new lettings policy will be fairer for those who have been waiting a very long time on the housing list, but I feel that priority should also be given to those with medical needs/disability needs. At the end of the day it's not just about the length of time you have been waiting althougth I can understand some families fustration especially those in overcrowded situations. I agree that the system needs to be more transparent in order for us to trust it. What I have a problem with is people who are in temporary housing appear to get rehoused far more quickly than others. Why is this the case? Many of these people are already in suitable accommodation and do not really need moving. I know of a few people who have recently been rehoused into ground floor flat.. without having a medical need!!. This is absolutely absurd!!. I am also sceptical about whether all the properties that become vacant actually get advertised as I have known people to be offered properties out of the blue!

Re: Let's Talk

02/11/2009 14:22:39 by Farha

What's the policy on people who have been living in the borough since they were born?
what about the people who are not overcrowded and have been coaxed and taken advantage of into being housed under the family rent deposit sceheme (private rented properties)instead of being housed as homeless?
How is it perceived for people prioritised according to their needs and application date who are from another borough with the people already living in the borough?

Re: Let's Talk

02/11/2009 17:52:25 by a hasim

Of course present system is very unfair but new system also will be unfair unless we cant't avoid partiality.if i was waiting years on the list and i don't know anyone in the council and i was told some one waiting longer than me, then nothing i can do .So we must need some honesty as well .Other thing council should think seriosly about homeless people, I honestly believe no one really homeless , people are genuinely homeless who are living on the street.People made themselves homeless just to get quick house .council should seriously pay attention on this issue .And who are homeless should not be given choice for housing as they are homeless they should be accommodate where counccil choose unless they have considerable medical condition . this is the way homeless application will be decrease significanly . And again no pont to talk unless anything implemented .

who is checking this?

02/11/2009 22:08:08 by T ALI

is anybody even checking this from the council. I have been waiting in a 2 bed flat with 5 daughters for more than 10 years now. what is going on????

Re: Let's Talk

03/11/2009 12:30:16 by Mrs Begum

i think the bidding system is good but the council need to track down the tentants who are cheating the system.
they claim that they are living in a crowed home so when the council gives them a property they take it but dont live in it and still stay with there parents. they sub let it making money on top after paying there rent. these are the people who are taking the chances of the ones like us who really need a house.
i think the council should have a system put down to check who is breaking the law and give the ones who are really overcroweded.

Re: Let's Talk

03/11/2009 13:03:13 by sy

I really hope this new system works. I have only been on the list over a year now but dont get no feed back what's so ever on the properties i have bid for which i think is not right so lets see.

Re: Let's Talk

03/11/2009 22:58:45 by j begum

well i have given up on the council i have been on the waiting list for 5 years im expecting my 3rd child and live in a bedsit i cant be bothered to call them up you here the same story everytime

Re: Let's Talk

04/11/2009 00:56:30 by Mrs A Nessa

The new system seems to be a good idea but, I also think that length of time shouldn't be the only thing you should consider. I believe that when you bid, your rank and what number you are on the list for that property should come up. Also when you visit a property you shouldn't be
with a group of other people to visit the same place this is not acceptable.

Re: Let's Talk

04/11/2009 20:35:55 by Mrs Prim

This is unfair, i have been bidding for a long time and i have not recieved anything. Plus the new propeties don't have parking. We hope there are some changes!

Re: Let's Talk

05/11/2009 22:50:40 by rita

I dont think that either a new sistem will work like the old one I am on the waiting list for 5 years with 3 children and every time i call them same answer KEEP BIDING we are kept in the dark and dont know where we stand, so they keep telling us that disabled peoplle or ill people are having priorities to get a flat so do they wait for us to become disabled or ill to get a flat and put our children to social services because after we could't look after them? NO this is not right but WHOM TO TELL THIS NO ONE we can not even see anyone from council an speak to them so hopefuly this new sistem is going to work which I dont think so thanx

Re: Let's Talk

06/11/2009 19:13:57 by Georgie

Ok so this week there are 45 1 bedroom properties to bid for of these 22 are car free zones! What exactly would Tower Hamlets Council like me to do with my car? Sell it? Not possible - I have few pleasures in life and my car is one of them I also take my elderly mother shopping and to doctor/hospital appointments. Is this car free zone idea by Tower Hamlets legal? Surely I am perfectly within my rights to park on the public highways? Isnt it infringing on my Human Rights to have a car and be able to park it in my neighbourhood! Maybe I need to take this up with a court of humar rights and find out exactly what I can do about this nonsense. So bottom line not only is it pointless bidding week after week for a one bed flat Im cloearly never going to get my choice is also restricted by the car free zone nonsense that THC are bent on enforcing. Whats the point?

Re: Let's Talk

06/11/2009 19:44:26 by by S. Jahan

I really HOPE the new system works.. but my heart says that its just SHOW. I think its jus gonna be like the old one, the advisors would STILL tell you KEEP BIDDING when you contact them, rather than giving you a reasonable straight forward answer. I would hope that people waiting for a long time for housing should have a bit more priority and also people who are overcrowded. I've been on the list for nearly 2 and a half years now but had no calls to view any property. Do the people in charge, even look back at peoples application and their priorities? I really hope the system brings improvement.

Re: Let's Talk

07/11/2009 19:37:46 by Mr Abdi

I don’t trust the council housing system one bit. I have been on the waiting list for 6 years. I have 3 young kids and I was told if I want a property I need to bid for high flats over 4to 8 floor and open plan property (new bibs) outside e14 area and at the same time I can pick where and whatever I want but only a 3 bed which I don't understand “do I have a choice or not” I was told if I bid or ground floor I would not get it and all my bids would not be count. Ground floor property are for families that as medical needs. I was told all I can do is bid and there are other people waiting longer than me. We are 5 people in a 2 bedroom flat. Each year I hear the same lines over and over again.
I really do not feel that these new bibs are for family with young Childers as the all have open plan and are ever small.

Re: Let's Talk

08/11/2009 09:52:47 by H. J.

I don't know for sure which system is better, but my experience with this biding system is not good. my question is, how would i know that i am being treated fairly when i can't see the progress of my application. If ther was a system that can tell far i am in the que or approcimately how long will it take me to be rehoused them i will have faith in the system.

Re: Let's Talk

08/11/2009 13:08:29 by Em

I have to agree with so many of the comments here. The new build systems are so unfair. Majority are open plan (which is a nightmare with children) - I know because I am living in an open plan at the moment with two young kids. The car free zone is again unfair as so many people rely upon their cars (I understand the rational behind it but still makes things difficult for people). It is especially unhelpful for families with young children and people who are ill or disabled. Ok - so you can get a permit if you are a blue badge holder, but not everyone gets approved for a blue badge even when they really need it. Who is green lightng these properties? Why are the needs of local residents not being taken into consideration?

Open plan is great if you are a single professional, or a couple. Not great if you have kids!!!!! Which covers majority of LBTH residents!

Re: Let's Talk

08/11/2009 14:19:53 by S.D

My son has been on the list for 5 years. He bids every week and to this day has never been offered anything. If he could he would buy a property, he has been to banks etc for mortgages but cant lend enough money on the wages he earns. He is really frustrated with the whole system. Maybe the change will give him a better chance but to be honest I personally cant see it. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE. THE COUNCIL DONT SEEM TO CONSIDER SINGLE PEOPLE, but he has a right just as much as anyone else !!!!

Re: Let's Talk

08/11/2009 16:43:09 by karen

i joined the sons and daughters scheme in 1988 with my then boyfriend we split up shortly after this but my ex was offered a flat he took with his new girlfriend.I am still living with my mum and my eleven year old daughter and we sleep in the same bedroom as the flat is only small i am now 37 years old and have being on the housing for over twenty years we were told over four years ago that we were overcrowded i truly feel let down by the present system.

Re: Let's Talk

09/11/2009 07:56:52 by yusuf

Unsure how more effective the new system will be. It's just changing name for the same system. Carfree zone! where do they expect us to park then, for some a car is a necessity.Many are opting out of these new build properties because of no parking. May sound trivial but a very valid decisive point. Hope someone is taking note.

Re: Let's Talk

09/11/2009 13:19:48 by Francis

I think the system they use in Waltham Forest and Southwark is so much better. You are able to see how many people bidded for the same property and what position you are, therefore at least you know where you stand. This system to me feels has if nothing is happening because I have no evidence that the council have received my bid.

Re: Let's Talk

09/11/2009 15:43:15 by mrs gabi

hi i think the new bidding system is far too long to wit for the wright home that you want as i am living on high rise flat with my two children and my husband and we are bidding for 5 years now but still there is no offer and in our blocks there is three dogs which make my children scard and also the lift as been refurbished but still some time it work and some time it dosent and we have to take a staires from 18th floor, an still waiting on the list.

Re: Let's Talk

09/11/2009 20:20:57 by Asiya

Hi, i think the new system may help a few people but not others. Me and my family have been bidding since the begining and we haven't had any progress, we need some accountability on how things are really done!!

Re: Let's Talk

10/11/2009 13:17:12 by angry

it needs to be changed this way is wrong i been waitin 15 years to be moved overcrowding a son 23 a daughter 21 in a 2 bedroom maisonette now i am 58 an heart an lung problems cant breath 4 flights of stairs to tend with plus internal stairs just put in another medical form wait to see wat happen now i know people moved for no were near that reason an got brand new houses so yes this is wrong and should be changed

Re: Let's Talk

11/11/2009 23:02:50 by Abul

Marc, someone suggested frequency of bids are a factor in deciding on allocation, can you please tell us on this forum if this is true.

Re: Let's Talk

12/11/2009 16:41:12 by Ben

After a first glance the new scheme seems good.

I have been bidding since Dec 08 not long i know but i have my partner, me and my 20 month old son living with her parents and brother with his family of 3 in a 3 bed which is a nightmare. I

get laughed at on the telephone by the lettings team so maybe some work needs to be done there, all i am told is you have to wait for 3 years min to even have a chance at a above 8th floor tower block.

I really hope this helps parents who are not in their teens, but are responsible and need a good and safe home for their family.

Re: Let's Talk

12/11/2009 17:28:53 by Dean Saliba

I have been on the list for over five year now.

I think the current system is a fair one but I'd like to see a change that sees people who have been on the list for a long period given priority over new-comers.

Re: Let's Talk

12/11/2009 22:14:06 by bill

i been on the waitin list for 15 years and i sure i should have been move by now i hope if it is changed the right people get to move first

Re: Let's Talk

13/11/2009 01:18:02 by nezha

the council need to to something urgent i have been bidding for a year now nothing changed i have a 22 months baby the flat were i live is to cold 14c even with heater on as all are electric storege i have seen on the health and safty people web site the minimum room tempeture should not be less than 17c and have a open plan kitchen that not a good idea to builed a flats with a open plan kitchen or give it to a familly with young children my sons has burn his hands as it easy acces to the cooker even with safety child lock,some people are still living with familly or partner and renting them property for they owne good why can the council check on them first before they give it to them i m not to sure about the new system

Re: Let's Talk

13/11/2009 14:55:50 by by Karima

Why are there so many empty properties it just does not make any sense! Why are all new builds come with a car free zone, it is ridiculous. i was told that i have more chance bidding for new build properties, but how can i when we have a car! Our income comes from our car so what are we supposed to do?

I am pleased to hear that people are going to get more of a chance who have been waiting the longest. I have been on the waiting list for 7 years with 3 kids in a 2 bedroom on the second floor with no lift. Try going up the stairs with a pushchair and shopping bags! When i complained i was told you are young and fit well not anymore due to the difficulty of going up and down those stairs 3 times a day or more.

I think it would be good idea to have a system put in place were, when you bid you know how many people have bidded for that property and at what number you are on the list, so you can get a rough idea what chance you have on that particular property.

Re: Let's Talk

14/11/2009 01:03:50 by Ben

We've always been blinded by the way bidding is done especially on line just because i don't think there's time to look at all those who're bidding.And worse still,we can't even know that we're in a queue which's moving.Hope the new changes will make a difference.

Re: Let's Talk

16/11/2009 00:24:35 by Farhana Begum

Hi, I have been on the homeless waiting list (catogorie 2)for nearly 6 years now, I have four children and me and my husband. We are currently living in a 2 bedroom flat (temporary accomodation) and have been bidding nearly every week, but have not had any properties offered to me, even though people I know have not waited that long but got 4 bedroom properties, and everytime I contact the council I am told to bid. This system is very unfair because people are waiting for god knows how long. I would have moved out of Tower Hamlets because of the overcrowdiness but cannot do that as I have to look after my father who is old and disabled and he does not want to move out of the borough. Any way I hope the new system will help people like me and others who are sick and tired of excuses from the council.

Re: Let's Talk

17/11/2009 09:43:19 by Jem

i think we should be informed what position we are once the bidding has ended then everyone knows the position. at the moment we need to contact you to find the position where as if the results were published then it would make life easier for everyone. other broughs do it like that. you can see how many people have bidded so far and at the end you are told your position. it is good however that you can bid for as many properties as you like which can increase the possibility to be housed eventually hopefully.

Re: Let's Talk

17/11/2009 13:14:12 by George

Hiya, I think this new system would work well as I, and many other people, have been on the waiting list for such a long time now and have not had a letter/email/phonecall to say what status my application is at. I never trusted the current system since I first applied as from ten years ago and the local office conveniently lost my file and I was forced to re-apply! Shortening my length of time waiting from ten years to now only four years. I am Livid that lettings refuse to account the previous years I was on the waiting list. this has inconvenienced me and my child from getting a place sooner conditions are getting more cramped as he gets older and all I'm told is 'You have to just keep bidding I'm afraid' While someone who has connections with staff in lettings just by-passes everyone. This is very unfair for those of us who have been waiting urgently for a place for so long.
I welcome this new system which should iron out the inconveniences and hopefully administration will be much better managed where staff are also being monitored with who they are letting houses to.
Many thanks

Re: Let's Talk

17/11/2009 20:11:07 by caroline penfold

ive been on the waiting list for over 3years now i have 2year old son to cramped in with my parents causin loads of problems have no idea of when a place may eventually get offered to me at all colud be waiting 3-4years plus what a joke.maybe we need this new wqay to help people know where we all stand on the long waiting list

Re: Let's Talk

19/11/2009 15:14:29 by Mr P

The system needs the change. I agree with length of time on waiting list should be taken into consideration as well as overcrowding. The council also has duty to house single people as well as young couple too. The answer to the above probablem is to build more houses.

Re: Let's Talk

20/11/2009 10:28:37 by Mr P

I would like to know what position I am when bidding for property. I think this will be transparent.
I think waiting time and overcrowding should be taken into consideration and make them an priority. The council should also provide home to single as well as young couple too. To all the above problems the solution is to build more houses.

Re: Let's Talk

20/11/2009 11:55:20 by m. begum

it is very good, now every one get same right.thanks for this oportunity.

Re: Let's Talk

20/11/2009 13:26:17 by Mrs S

i have been on the waiting list for nearly ten years and for the past five years i have changed temporary accomadation more than three time you can image how inconvience it is causing special when you have children, moving houses is effecting my children because by they time they get settle its time to move again means meeting new people making friends etc. I dont see bidding is helping any of us who have been on the waiting list for so long, because i know so many people who have been on the waiting list for less than 2 years and have already got permernant accommodation, i would like to know in what ground they were offered permernant accommodation because it is not fair on us who have been waiting for ten years. We should also be informed every time we bid, what position we are in and when properties are being offered to tenants after bidding in what grounds they were offered in.

Re: Let's Talk

20/11/2009 17:55:32 by H. J

transparency, transparency, transparency, what is going on. how can people be bidding for ten twelve years without success. This needs to be sorted now and not later. We are angry.

Re: Let's Talk

21/11/2009 01:36:29 by kaleda begum

i think the current system is unfair to people who have kids and are living over crowded in one room like me my husband n my daughter live with my inlaws and there aint enough space my room is damp and very very cold in this time of the year im just hopin dat the new systtem would be good and fair god knows how long we hav to wait jus hope it doent take dat long.

Re: Let's Talk

23/11/2009 23:20:34 by Sadia

I dont understand the housing system myself but i believe that peoples individual circumstances should definetly be taken into account and not just the legnth of time they have been waiting on the list.

Let's Talk

24/11/2009 16:51:30 by Halima

i have waiting to get a house since 2000 they have been moveing me around in a temporary house i think the system is beem cheated on and people now that them self i have 7 kids and my children are growing up and this is not fair on them.

Re: Let's Talk

24/11/2009 17:47:32 by sam

ladies and gentelmen your forgetting that what band you place would make the real diffrence ,lets wait and see what the council does if they really take our views on and make changes to the policy plus people complianing that they have waited 7 years , that would be those who are waiting to be REHOUSED than someone whos waiting to be just HOUSED ! thats the diffrence stop moaning anyone and evryone the council is doing the best to come with a policy for the best choice and somethiing that works for the whole community !!

Re: Let's Talk

24/11/2009 18:20:19 by aj

council must do something to sort out the housing problem ,they must take responsibilty its not good enough at all just talk and do nothing .and also council should give priority on the length of the waiting times and family with one or two kids.I personally believe this also our responsibility not to make ourselve too overcowded if we can not accommodate our kids. end of the day we tax payer have to pay the price . Of course who are on the benifit may not bother at all .Entitlement should earn not demand.

Re: Let's Talk

26/11/2009 14:10:45 by karim

I think the propsed policy will be bebeficial for the tower hamlets residents as we are all aware that majority of us are victims of OVERCOWDING. Therefore I think whoever is waiting long should be offered a property first.

27/11/2009 13:56:19 by Lila

I think this system is fair because everyone get to choose a property they are happy with, however i agree with what one of the people said and this is to have a system whereby you can see you position in the qauee when you bid for property that way you are more aware of your chances.

Re: Let's Talk

27/11/2009 14:05:25 by Ms H

Hi

I have joined TH housing and i am currently in (temp house) i have been bidding for a while but i must say this system is very fair in my view due to the fact the it gives everyone the opportunity to bid for their desired property, taking into consideration many factors for example, bidding for a property closer to someone they look after like a elderly parent, however as a working person my only concern is that we are not being offered an affordable housing options many of the houses in tower hamlet are not affordable and i think people who work should be put in a category taking into consideration their income and offer them good housing which are affordable and inform them clearly how long they will wait.

Re: Let's Talk

28/11/2009 17:43:45 by ash

i think i have to agree with sadia that individual curcumstaces should be taken into account and not just lenghth of time as it did and worked with choice based lettings, this new system is just not working for me !!!!!

Re: Let's Talk

29/11/2009 10:14:38 by Fatiha

Neighbouring boroughs like Newham, Hackney and Islington actually let you know when you are bidding online how many people have bidded for the property that you are bidding on and when the bid closes, they let you know what position your bid came in at. Why cant THHS do the same?

Re: Let's Talk

29/11/2009 13:19:34 by ahmed

i think the new system hopefuly will be a good thing, glad to see priority has been given to OVERCROWDING, its a nightmare you dont get enough sleep which effectt your health, also i hope they give people some feedback for how long some aplicant have to wait until they get rehouse.

Re: Let's Talk

01/12/2009 22:53:03 by SELIN

I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR 5 YEARS NOW WITHOUT SUCSESS.I AM CURRENTLY IN A ONE BEDROOM PROPERTY PRIVATLY RENTED.I HAVE BEEN TO THE COUNCIL SO MANY TIMES BUT I BEEN TOLD TO SLEEP IN MY LIVINGROOM.......IF MY BEDROOM IS TO SMALL. I HAVE A 2 YEAR OLD SON. NOW.... HOW CAN I MAKE HIM SLEEP IN THE LIVINGROOM ON HIS OWN AND AM OLSO 3 MONTHS PREGNANT WE SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT TIME WHEN I GO THERE.

Re: Let's Talk

03/12/2009 14:57:45 by jafor

I have been living in a council bedsit for 12 years now. I have a wife and two children. Yet I have less priority than a homeless person living in temporary accomodation. This change in policy will put me on an equal footing to a homeless person and if I have been waiting longer, I would be rehoused earlier.

Re: Let's Talk

04/12/2009 11:01:41 by lorraine blackham

i havent been on the housing list for but i live on forth no lift i have little who is a year old and im 5 months pregnant its a totall nightmare going yp and down these stairs. when i biddided for this flat it said that it had a lift but when came here to view it there wa no lift. i had to take this this flat cos i was in a tempary accomation and u only get one offer i have fell down these down stairs twice now but the council said just keep on bidding, i feel very sorry for other people who has been on the housing list for years all i want is a answer from the council where im on the bidding list not keep saying keeping bidding, i also have ashma and its gwtting worse now im pregnant. i wish the council just listen to people and not forbe them off.

Re:ms

04/12/2009 14:41:24 by vera

i hope the new system will help impove the housing crisis in tower hamletts, i have being on the old list for about six years with three childern i think the system needs to be change for a better tomorrow.

Re: Let's Talk

10/12/2009 12:28:21 by bussra

hi,i completely disagree with the current and the new waitinh system.i have been on the waiting list over 4yrs.the council are giving me no hope whatsoever to how long it will take me to be rehoused.All these say is bid.i'v been biding for 4 years and i now there are people on the waiting list who have been bidibg longer than i have.just by saying bid this doesn't slove the problem because if there isn't any suitable property how are we meant to bid.if we pressurize the council for being rehoused you have people who work for the housing turn around and say,you were given 2 bedroom with 2 children now you have 4 did didnt you think of it before to had more children.i say who are the council telling me how many children i can have,interfering in other peoples personal life.
Also all the new houses and homes which are being build are big storey blocks with open plan kitchen and living room,car free zone.i really dont think big towers are ideal for children.
we want our children to grow up in an enviroment where there is breathing space i.e garden near by park.people on the housing list with children needs to be rehoused as soon as possible.living in overcrowding dosn't build a strong and secure future for them.
open plan kicthen and living room again i strongly disagree this isn't a secure place for the children at all.there are a lot of hazard in the kitchen.
thirdly car free zone what are people meant to do when they need to take the car in a daily base.i belive that having a car free zone would mean for some families not to socialise.
i belive everyone comments should be taken in to considaration and ask the barough wat they want,not wat you as a council want because end of the day we are the people tha are putting money into your pockets(rent and council tax)
i belive eveyone sholud have a choice of how they want to be rehoused.i know for a fact over 90% of people dont want to live in tower blocks with open plan and car free zone.people should be given more options about housing.

Re: Let's Talk

10/12/2009 23:12:22 by moknun

hi, i completly disagree with the current system and the new system on the housing waiting list beacuse i have 4 children and been on the waiting list over four years but no success to being rehoused.every time i speak to some one same answer "you need to bid" but how long for we all need breathing space most imporatanly children.these are there vital years to engage with others.they need to be in an environment where they feel safe and secure.but in one sence locked they are up in there own home.why because they have no where to play.i.e if you are building big tower blocks they can not socialize there parents feel in secure to let them out.also safety wise it is very dangerous for children.my next disagreement is about open plan kitchen and living room.Again i belive this is another big HAZARD because if you have children it is a definently a no no.i therefore belive you should ask people what they want cause they would be able to tell you if it is safe for families wuith children.
lastly car free zone.what are people meant to do with there cars.what if people need to use there car on a daily base i.e going to work,you need your car while you are working at all times.not only do you need it for work but you also need it if you have children of different age groups.for some families you would acutally be stoping them socializing because there could be many reason why they cannot use the public transport.
i therefor belive it is up to the brough to decide what they want and don't want not for the people who work for the council.these comments should be taken into serious consideration.

Re: Let's Talk

11/12/2009 10:46:31 by sal

ive been on the housing list for 5 yrs and have had no offers yet!! i bid everyweek aswel!! i hope this new system will help me and other people in the same boat!

Re: Let's Talk

13/12/2009 15:15:16 by Abdi Aden

Any change to the system would be welcomed. I have been on that list for over 5 years and have not to this day been offered one home. The current system obviously does not account for the length of time an individual has been on the list, which is so unfair. How is it fair that someone who comes from an overcrowded has a higher priority than someone who has been on the list for a number of years? Tower Hamlets make the changes and make them fast!!

Re: Let's Talk

18/12/2009 09:55:49 by humayun

i believe the current leting housing policy
in not the right policy. people waiting for long time the have no priority to get the home and some people apply and get the home no clew how do you think it is fair?
need change and should be considered the lenth of time waiting.wellcome the new rule.

Re: Let's Talk

22/12/2009 03:02:16 by kaleda begum

i think this policy is ok but i think people have been waiting for so long and hav been biding for so long we never get a strait answer to wer we are. i also think people with medical problems and people living in a house of over crowded should bee the one to be getting houses first. i hope this new policy will changw thing

Re: Let's Talk

22/12/2009 17:33:32 by aisha begum

i think and firmly believe your current letting policy is not good at all. you are giving priorities to the people who are overcrowed in their houses by producing new babies every damn year and showing they are living in an overcrowded house and you are giving them firt priority and people who are waiting for so long, are kept in waiting. Also you are giving priority to the disable persons and old peoples what about the other people who are still okay and could become disable and old while waiting for your house.

i am bidding every damn week with no result for the last four years.

still i am optimistic that the new system will bring change to your policy.

lets hope for the best who are like us.

Re: Let's Talk

24/12/2009 15:55:13 by laura

ive been living in tower hamlets for 26 years and ive been bidding for over a year and feel that it has been to long considing the amount of new council place that are being built in towerhamlets.

Re: Let's Talk

25/12/2009 12:30:37 by fuad

i think this new policy is fair people who waiting longer shoould get house and also poeple with circumtances should be considered and also overcrowding as i hope this policy will be as good as think.

Re: Let's Talk

28/12/2009 09:37:45 by Ali

The new system has to be transparent. People need to know where they stand. This would prevent people having false hopes and would allow them to consider other options.

Re: Let's Talk

30/12/2009 00:58:40 by Mr Ahmed

We could all waiste our time writing our views and experiences but the truth is we would never be heard. In every corner of Tower Hamlets there are new apartments being built but whether we get the opportunity to live there is another thing !!

Re: Let's Talk

30/12/2009 13:53:40 by Shiria Khanam

I think the lettings system is a load of rubbish. people bid every week and are kept in the dark as to what the position is. there should definatly be more transparency as to where your bid came in, how many people have bidded for that property. This will allow applicants to see whats actually happening, be able to know if they have gpone up on the social housing list or have they been stuck in the same place. also the system shouldnt just give priority to certain catagories of people but instead look into everybodys personal circumstances as to why they want to move out.

I really hope the new system does bring some light at the end of the tunnel..

Re: Let's Talk

30/12/2009 23:00:50 by jafor

This consultation has been running for well over two months, when will it be implemented?

Re: Let's Talk

16/01/2010 02:07:04 by kamal

they need to show clearly what position you are when u bid rather than to call in and find out where the lettings team never pick up .

Re: Let's Talk

21/01/2010 21:31:43 by Nayla

As far as I know homeless applicants have to accept a smaller property if they are offered it. So why is that any differet for others on the waiting list?

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