Older tenants in Royal Greenwich who are thinking about a change of scene could swap London life for the coast or countryside and be compensated for freeing up a family home.
The Mayor of London run Seaside and Country Homes scheme, offers council or housing association tenants in London aged 55 and over, the chance to move to the countryside or by the sea, in exchange for their council or housing association home.
Cllr Jackie Smith, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, Greenwich Build and Estate Regeneration, said: “We want to support older residents who want to live independently in a setting that they feel would better suit their needs and lifestyle. Some people choose to relocate to be closer to family or friends, enjoy a quieter lifestyle or live among people of a similar age.
"We’ve made sure that council tenants will be able to get help with moving, and both council and housing association tenants are eligible for £1,000 for every spare bedroom given up. This voluntary scheme is very popular in London, and the waiting list can be long, so anyone who does want to be considered should find out more about it and apply as soon as possible.”
The scheme has helped roughly 30 households in Greenwich in the past two years relocate to one- and two-bedroom flats and bungalows in the countryside or by the sea. Residents pay a social rent, and their existing tenancy rights are fully protected.
It has also helped the council increase the number of larger council homes available in the borough for families on the housing register or in temporary accommodation waiting for suitable housing.
The scheme is one of several relocation options available to existing tenants in the borough alongside the mutual exchange and the downsizing (under-occupation) scheme. If council tenants move through the Seaside and Country Homes scheme, they can get help with moving costs, and both council and housing association tenants are eligible for £1,000 for every spare bedroom given up.
To apply, residents must be a secure tenant aged 55 or over and rent their home from the council or a housing association. Residents must also have had no rent arrears for at least 12 months, no history of antisocial behaviour or any ongoing possession or eviction proceedings.
Find out how to apply or call 020 8921 2941.