Age criteria for social housing applications to be lowered

Wednesday 15 March 2023

The Housing Minister has revealed he will be lowering the age criteria for the Affordable Housing Gateway from 40 down to 25.

The Gateway contains the waiting list for those registered for affordable rented housing, which is monitored by providers such as Andium Homes.

Currently, those who wish to qualify for the Gateway must be over 40 years-old with a maximum gross income of £32,300 (for a single applicant) or £40,700 (joint applicant) unless they have a disability or other exemption such as high care costs for a child under school age.

The income thresholds were raised at the start of the year, however Housing Minister Deputy David Warr has said he plans to also lower the age criteria from 40 down to 25.

Pictured: The current limits to qualify for affordable housing.

He revealed his intention to do so in a written reply to St. Helier Deputy Catherine Curtis, who asked if he was working on plans to help young people upsize their property - such as couples with a one-bedroom flat looking to start a family.

Deputy Warr replied: "As Minister for Housing and Communities, I am acutely aware of the housing challenges faced by young people. Unfortunately, this issue is not a problem isolated to Jersey. Economic changes have impacted on the lending environment, creating a wider affordability gap.

"Nevertheless, I want to give hope to Islanders, particularly young people who want to remain in Jersey."

Pictured: Housing Minister David Warr.

He continued: "I have, therefore, tasked officers to think creatively in proposing assisted purchase schemes. I am in discussions with our Chief Economist about such schemes; I want to ensure the policy I publish is workable within the current economic climate.

"We also have housing supply identified in Bridging Island Plan of 4,000 homes, around 1,500 of which will be affordable homes on rezoned sites. These sites will provide larger, affordable family homes. Supporting more housing options for young people is important to me.

"That’s why I am also committed to reducing the entry age for the Gateway down to 25."