Supported housing scheme first to get three stars for excellence

The local authority is the first to receive the award – the highest possible – from the Centre for Housing Support.

The borough’s supported housing schemes provide accommodation for people aged 60 and over, who can live on their own but who would still like to have support close by.

The service, which runs 31 schemes across the borough, was independently assessed on seven key areas including safety, value for money and equality and respect.

The rating was given after external assessors visited and spoke with tenants last October as well as in June of this year.

Council cabinet member for housing Margaret Griffiths said: “We are really proud of our supported housing service and are always looking to improve.

“This accreditation has highlighted where we are getting it right for our tenants who want to live an independent life, with the assurance that support is available when they need it.”

Each supported housing scheme has its own officer who looks after the residents’ well-being.

Director of the Centre for Housing Support Christine Walker said: “We are delighted to award three stars to Dacorum Borough Council; it demonstrates the real quality their service delivers.

“They now have tangible evidence that they deliver significant and positive outcomes for people who use their service.”

For more information on supported housing in Dacorum.