Housing trusts are charitable or non-profit organisations that provide affordable housing and support services. They are often registered social landlords and play a vital role in providing housing for people in need.
What is a Housing Trust?
A housing trust is:
- Charitable or Non-Profit: Not-for-profit organisation
- Housing Provider: Provides affordable housing
- Support Services: Often includes support services
- Community Focus: Serves local communities
- Regulated: Registered and regulated
Types of Housing Trusts
Charitable Housing Trusts
- Registered charities
- Charitable objectives
- Affordable housing
- Support services
- Community benefit
Housing Association Trusts
- Registered social landlords
- Social and affordable housing
- Support services
- Community development
- Regulated by RSH
Services Provided
Housing
- Social and affordable housing
- Supported housing
- Specialist accommodation
- Shared ownership
- Market rent (some properties)
Support Services
- Tenancy support
- Floating support
- Care and support
- Community development
- Employment support
Who Can Access Housing Trust Properties?
Eligibility varies but often includes:
- People on Low Incomes: Cannot afford market housing
- People in Housing Need: Homeless or at risk
- Local Residents: May require local connection
- Specific Groups: May serve specific groups
- Priority Groups: Priority based on need
Finding Housing Trust Properties
Application Process
- Find Trusts: Search for housing trusts in your area
- Check Eligibility: Check if you meet criteria
- Apply: Complete application forms
- Assessment: Assessment of your needs
- Allocation: Allocation if eligible
What to Look For
- Eligibility: Do you meet the criteria?
- Location: Is it in an area you want to live?
- Support: What support is available?
- Cost: Can you afford the accommodation?
- Reputation: What is the trust's reputation?
Your Rights
Tenancy Rights
- Right to a secure tenancy
- Right to privacy
- Right to have visitors
- Right to make improvements (with permission)
- Right to complain
Support Rights
- Right to support services
- Right to be involved in support planning
- Right to have preferences respected
- Right to review and change support
Regulation
Regulator of Social Housing
Housing trusts that are registered social landlords are regulated by the RSH, which:
- Regulates financial viability
- Regulates governance
- Sets standards
- Inspects and rates
- Responds to concerns
Browse Housing Trust Providers
Find housing trust providers in your area. These organisations provide affordable housing and support services for people in need.
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External Resources
Regulatory Bodies
Regulator of Social Housing
Regulator for social housing providers including housing trusts
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/regulator-of-social-housing
Charity Commission
Regulator for charities including charitable housing trusts
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/charity-commission
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a housing trust?
A housing trust is a charitable or non-profit organisation that provides affordable housing and support services. They are often registered social landlords and serve local communities.
What is the difference between a housing trust and a housing association?
Housing trusts are often charitable trusts with specific charitable objectives, while housing associations are broader registered social landlords. Both provide affordable housing, but trusts may have more specific charitable purposes.
Who is eligible for housing trust properties?
Eligibility varies by trust but often includes people on low incomes, people in housing need, local residents, and specific groups. Each trust has its own eligibility criteria.
How do I apply for housing trust accommodation?
Find housing trusts in your area, check if you meet their eligibility criteria, and complete application forms. You may apply directly or through local authority housing registers.
What support is available from housing trusts?
Support can include tenancy support, floating support, care and support services, community development, and employment support. Support varies by trust.
Are housing trusts regulated?
Housing trusts that are registered social landlords are regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing. Charitable trusts are also regulated by the Charity Commission.
How much does housing trust accommodation cost?
Housing trust accommodation is usually affordable, with rents at social or affordable rent levels. Costs vary by trust and location. You may be eligible for Housing Benefit.
What is the difference between a housing trust and other social housing?
Housing trusts are often charitable organisations with specific charitable objectives, while other social housing may be provided by local authorities or larger housing associations. All provide affordable housing.
Can I stay in housing trust accommodation long-term?
Yes, housing trust accommodation is usually long-term, providing secure, affordable housing. Tenancies are typically secure or assured, providing long-term stability.
What services do housing trusts provide?
Housing trusts provide affordable housing, support services, community development, and sometimes care services. Services vary by trust and their charitable objectives.