£15 million fund launched to improve quality of social housing

A new £15 million fund has launched to improve the quality of social housing across Greater Manchester, particularly homes affected by damp and mould.

From Monday 26 June, the Social Housing Quality Fund will accept applications from social housing providers for grants to fund repairs and renovation works in properties.

The fund, announced by Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove at the Convention of the North conference earlier this year, has launched in response to the death of Awaab Ishak in Rochdale as a direct consequence of damp and mould in social housing.

Social housing providers in Greater Manchester, including registered providers and local authorities or arms-length management organisations, will be able to apply for funding to remediate issues such as damp and mould in their properties, and in doing so improving the physical quality of housing. Grants will be match-funded by at least 25 per cent by successful applicants.

Cllr Ged Cooney, Greater Manchester Lead for Housing, said:

“Everyone in Greater Manchester should be able to count on safe, secure housing that sets them up to get on with their lives. Sadly, we know that isn’t always the case, and when issues like damp and mould arise they can pose a serious risk if they’re not treated.

“This funding from Government is a welcome first step that will support social housing providers to carry out important work to tackle potential health hazards, prevent issues arising, and improve the quality of social housing stock across Greater Manchester. I would strongly encourage any housing provider who might benefit from this fund to submit an application.

“Beyond this, it’s abundantly clear that we need a cohesive and comprehensive approach to raising and upholding good standards in both the social and private rented sectors. That’s why we’re working with our partners and using our new devolved powers and responsibilities to bring forward a Greater Manchester Good Landlord Charter, which will recognise good practice, empower tenants, and help us to push for change where it’s required.”

An information session for prospective applicants will be held on Wednesday 28 June, giving housing providers a chance to find out more about the funding available. Details on how to register can be found on the GMCA website along with the application form and full list of terms and conditions.

The deadline to apply for the Social Housing Quality Fund is Friday 14th July, and a decision on grant awards is expected to be made in August.