URL: https://cds.sevenoaks.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=393&J=1

Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Cllr Perry Cole move and Cllr Maskell seconded that Council note the feedback received from the public consultation and adopt the Private Sector Housing Grant Policy. Cllr Perry Cole spoke to the motion, advising that the policy was designed to assist the most vulnerable people living in the private sector within the district. There were strong links between poor housing conditions and poor health and so adaptations or alternations were sometimes needed to support residents to live in their homes independently. The policy aimed to increase the number of vulnerable people who were able to live independently at home, as well at increase the number of empty homes back into use. The council awarded mandatory disabled facility grants in accordance with the relevant legislation and guidance, which determined the type of work funded.   During debate, the consultation process was raised giving considering that only 10 responses had been received, and the speed to process the grants.   In response to the debate, Cllr Perry Cole advised that concerns over the consultation process and lack of responses had been raised, and Cabinet had made their own observations and were looking into other ways to encourage feedback. The consultation had been sent to over 500 residents, as well as partners and Councillors. There were delays with funding being received from Kent County Council but it was stressed that the average completion was 80 days or less, which fell within the national average of between two and six months.   Public Sector Equality Duty Members’ noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the public sector equality duty.     The motion was put the vote, and it was   Resolved: That   a) the feedback received from the public consultation, be noted; and   b) the Private Sector Housing Grant Policy, be adopted.    

Date of Decision: April 30, 2026