Housing Minister highlights ‘Every House Matters’ at Social Housing Tenancy Fraud Conference
Date published:
Housing Minister Gordon Lyons outlined his approach to social housing tenancy fraud at a conference in Belfast.
Hosted by the Department for Communities, the Social Housing Tenancy Fraud Conference highlighted the impact of tenancy fraud on those on the social housing waiting list and explored innovative ways to tackle the issue.
Speaking at the conference, Minister Lyons said:
“We are facing unprecedented challenges in delivering social housing as the demand for secure, affordable homes continues to rise. The theme of this conference is ‘Every House Matters’ and tackling every instance of tenancy fraud does matter. The true cost of tenancy fraud is felt by people on the waiting list, who, if we do not act now, will wait longer to access a social home.”
The conference coincides with International Fraud Awareness Week and brings together social housing landlords and other stakeholders to discuss best practice in combatting and recording tenancy fraud.
The Minister added:
“We must protect our current housing stock, ensuring each home goes to and remains with those who need it most.
“As Housing Minister, I want to see a focus on the prevention of fraud by raising awareness of this issue. There must be clear powers in place to enable social landlords to intervene and stop fraud when it is uncovered. Ultimately, there must be a deterrent, particularly for the most serious cases of tenancy fraud.
“When individuals commit tenancy fraud, it is not victimless. They are taking a lifeline from a family in need of a home. I call on all representatives here today to continue to work together to eradicate fraud and ensure our housing system is fair and focused on those who are most in need.”
The Minister also set out his plans to launch a public consultation on proposals to strengthen policy and legislation in this area.
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: Communities Minster Gordon Lyons (right) pictured with (left to right) Kevin Curran (Northern Ireland Housing Executive), Paula Craig-Peratt (Falkirk City Council), Stephanie Toghill (Tenancy Fraud Forum UK), Katrina Robinson (Tenancy Fraud Forum UK) and Tracey Ellis (Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations).
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