The proposed changes will assist the Council in meeting the objectives of the Wirral Plan pledges through the provision of “Good quality housing which meets the needs of residents”; and the aim of improving 2,250 private sector properties by 2010; and “Improving the housing and support needs of our most vulnerable people to enable them to live independently”. The changes also contribute to the “Ageing well in Wirral” Strategy by enabling residents to “enjoy a happy home life” through delivering 2000 adaptations per annum.

Resolved – that the revisions to the Council’s Private Sector Housing and Regeneration Assistance Policy, and the implementation of the revised Policy be approved with immediate effect.

It is considered good practice to regularly monitor, review and amend (if necessary) the Assistance Policy to take into account changes in local circumstances, service delivery, increased needs and / or government policy. The attached supporting report sets out the changes required to respond to those identified needs.