The creation of a new Housing Board for Dorset Council has been given Cabinet approval.
The new Board will be ready to strengthen the delivery of Dorset Council’s ambition to tackle the rising challenges and issues in housing.
These range from an increase in need for affordable housing, rising costs and a lack of suitable accommodation being available.
It will encourage and facilitate a cross-council approach to capture the collective expertise and resources in a unified approach.
The Board reflects the need to work across multiple portfolios with Health, Public Health, Social Care and Economic Strategies all identifying the need for affordable and suitable homes.
The Board will also extend the council’s enabling role and multi-agency work with external partners such as Registered Providers and private landlords.
The new Housing Strategy is out to consultation, with this closing on 2 October, bringing this back to Cabinet in December.
Cllr Jane Somper, Portfolio lead for Housing, Adults and Public Health, said: “The approval from Cabinet will enhance Dorset Council’s ability to build on the expertise and knowledge we already have inside and outside of the organisation.
“The Board will help modernise and develop our approach for the next few years and beyond.
“As part of this work, we will continue to address housing and health inequalities and work to bridge the gap between those people whose health and wellbeing is adversely affected by their housing situation,” she added.
“A decent and affordable home is at the core of what is needed for people and families to thrive. This cannot be approached in isolation, and we recognise the need to join up economic, social and health aspects of our work and along with our partners and communities”.
A Housing Programme Board will oversee the Board and include the Cabinet Member for Economic Growth & Levelling Up and the Lead Member for Housing.
The Board will reflect the ‘One Council’ approach adopted when Dorset Council became a Unitary Authority in 2019.
Cabinet was held on Tuesday 5 September 2023.
Happy to work on the board.