Residents first: Have your say on proposed changes to social housing register 

Residents are being asked to share their views on the proposed changes to the social housing register that would see major changes made, putting local families, workers and carers at the front of the queue.  

Under the tough new proposals, applicants will need to have lived in North Lincolnshire for at least five years before joining the housing list.  

The new proposed rules are designed to ensure homes go first to people with genuine roots in the area, with priority given to workers, volunteers and carers alongside stronger protections for care leavers, veterans and survivors of domestic abuse.  

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: 

“It is so important to have a fair system that puts local families first, and we have listened to what residents have said, which is why we have launched this consultation. Local voices should be heard and be at the heart of what happens next.  

“Our communities, neighbourhoods and the people who live, work and care for one another in North Lincolnshire should be protected.  

“This is the chance for people in North Lincolnshire to get involved, share their views and help shape a system that reflects the values, needs and pride of our communities.” 

The changes are designed to ensure that the limited number of available homes are reserved for people who have genuine roots in the area and contribute to local life and that those who contribute to the community – including workers, volunteers and unpaid carers – get the priority they deserve when homes become available. 

North Lincolnshire Council is working with North East Lincolnshire Council to consult with residents to help shape the future of social housing across the two areas. 

Home Choice Lincs runs the register on behalf of a partnership of the two northern Lincolnshire authorities and the major social housing landlords in the area, Lincolnshire Housing Partnership, Ongo Homes, and Amplius. 

Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for independent families – adults and health at North Lincolnshire Council, said: 

“Home Choice Lincs plays a vital role in helping people access social housing across Northern Lincolnshire, so it’s important that the system is fair, transparent and reflects the needs of our communities – ensuring those who need it the most get the support they need. 

“We are working with all our housing partners on this consultation, which is about making sure the housing register is easy to understand, that priority is given to those who need it most, and that social housing is used in the best possible way, supporting those with local ties. 

“I would strongly encourage residents to take part and share their views, as their feedback will help shape the future of the social housing register.” 

Cllr Stewart Swinburn, North East Lincolnshire Council’s portfolio holder for housing, infrastructure and transport said: 

“These changes could affect everyone who is currently on the Home Choice Lincs housing register, or those who may access social housing in the future, therefore it is important that people give their opinions on the changes.  

“This is being moved forward with the aim to ensure as many people as possible are able to access the housing register at the right time and have the best chance at getting suitable accommodation.” 

The consultation went live from Monday, 12 January to Sunday, 15 March 2026 at midnight. You can find out more information and fill in the form by visiting the consultation page. 

About Home Choice Lincs 

Applicants register their housing need, preferred choice of home and location, Home Choice Lincs then advertises most of the available social housing for partners and other registered providers which applicants bid for. Homes are then offered in priority order.  

Currently, the register works on a banding system, with band one being high priority need and band four with little or no housing need decided using the current policy. And that is what the consultation is looking to change, with full details of current bandings and recommendations for change available on the website for those who wish to take part.  

This consultation will set the way for the introduction of a revised Housing Allocations Policy, which seeks to:   

• Set out clearly how social housing is allocated across Northern Lincolnshire.  

• Ensure decisions are made fairly and transparently.   

• Make the document more accessible. 

• Make it easier to understand the eligibility criteria, who qualifies, and who cannot be housed. 

• Improve the way people are prioritised. 

• Make the best use of the social housing available.