Get fresh with some new housing

Did you know in an average lifetime someone can spend 3 to 5 years just waiting for things? But waiting is something that some people who live in council housing or in temporary accommodation know all about when they are waiting for a home of their choice.

If you live in council housing, or temporary accommodation, then you may have to wait many years before you are offered somewhere suitable to live. Most people are waiting between 5 and 6 years for a two bedroomed home, and 10 to 12 years for a three bedroomed home.

But there is another way. Fresh Start is the relaunched Homefinder Plus Scheme, and is a way of renting privately, which means you can pick the property of your choice, in the area you want to live, and the council will help you move there if you meet the council’s criteria.

You can move inside or outside Enfield. You can choose to be nearer your child’s school or your friends and family, wherever they live. By renting privately you can choose the home you want that meets your needs.

Cllr Matthew Laban Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety said “This scheme is a great idea for council tenants and people in temporary accommodation who want to move quickly, and who need help to access private housing.

“Once you have found the property you would like to move to, Enfield Council can talk to property agents and landlords on your behalf. They will also assist you with claiming Local Housing Allowance to help you pay the rent on the new property, and assist you with setting up the new tenancy.

“Enfield Council will also pay the deposit for you so you don’t have to worry about that. You can’t lose.

“So don’t spend time waiting, pick up the phone and get moving!”

To apply for Fresh Start ring the Hotline on 020 8379 5240.

This document was last updated on 2008-09-02 15:40:51 published by the Communications team. Document Reference:LBE_133276