Douglas Council Leader Devon Watson has welcomed news that income thresholds for households applying for public sector housing are being increased to allow more people to join the waiting lists.
Watson said he appreciated the raise but added working families needed a “realistic prospect” of being offered a home.
From today (October 1) the baseline for single applicants, with no children, will raise by £1,300 to £35,800; for joint applicants, with three children, it will be increased by £13,400 to £63,900
Watson, who stood unsuccessfully for the Manx Labour Party as a House of Keys candidate in Douglas Central, added he would like the new government to be “more supportive” with schemes and push through more funding.
Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to him:
Tenants who have concerns about the changes are encouraged to contact their housing provider, or the local authority associated with the list they are on.
Government has also confirmed current applicants do not need to reapply as housing authorities will review active applications and issue updates where necessary.
