Maidenhead & Windsor

Members of the armed forces based in the Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough could soon have the same right of access to social housing as other residents.

If a new proposal is accepted, discharged Windsor and Maidenhead servicemen and women will receive ‘local connection’ points towards the housing allocation list if they have been living in the borough for six months prior to discharge or six months immediately before enlistment. Previously they had to have lived in the borough for 12 months before they joined the forces to qualify for these points.

This proposal brings former military personnel in line with other residents who have to live in the borough for six months to qualify for local connection points.

The proposal moved a step forward last night (Tuesday) when it was discussed at a planning and environment overview and scrutiny panel meeting in the Town Hall. It will now go to cabinet for approval on Thursday July 26.

Cllr Derek Wilson, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead housing, said: “It seems only fair that these men and women who are serving our country, possibly in difficult or even dangerous situations, are placed on an equal footing with other residents. This move will help ensure that when they leave the armed forces they have the same opportunities as other local people to find suitable accommodation in the area where they have already put down roots and their children attend school.”

The Windsor and Maidenhead borough does not own or manage any social housing but has arrangements with housing associations to ensure any accommodation that becomes available is offered to those with the greatest need. This is decided on a points-based system with points being allocated for such criteria as local connection, the quality of the resident’s existing accommodation and medical needs.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead