Background
In April 2003, the Government introduced the Supporting People regime. As a result Soha, along with other social landlords, had to charge tenants for services they receive that are provided to them as people rather than as part of providing them with a home. The majority of Soha's tenants affected by this are those living in sheltered schemes, where part of the role of a Scheme Manager is to provide personal support. The cost of this part of the service is recharged as a Support Charge.
Who pays the charge?
The charge is only payable by tenants who started their tenancy after 1 April 2003 and receive a support service, generally in the form of a Scheme Manager service.
How is the charge calculated?
Soha calculates the cost of providing the service to tenants and that cost is agreed by the Supporting People team at Oxfordshire County Council. They then require us to charge the agreed amount to tenants receiving the service.
Can you get Housing Benefit or other help with paying it?
Housing Benefit only covers charges for renting or providing services connected with your home and so is not available to pay for Support Charges. However, Supporting People Benefit is available for all tenants already receiving Housing Benefit. Some tenants who don't quite qualify for Housing Benefit will still qualify for Supporting People Benefit as it is worked out slightly differently. Your Housing Officer should have explained how to apply for Supporting People benefit when you moved in, but if you need information about applying please contact Customer Services on 01235 515900.