CIH welcomes government’s response to supported housing consultation

The government has published its response to the 2025 supported housing consultation.  

CIH welcomes the response, which outlines a clear commitment to raising standards while avoiding over-burdening providers or putting residents at risk.

Stephanie Morphew, CIH policy lead, commented: "The response demonstrates careful consideration of the sector’s contributions and we are pleased the government has adjusted proposals accordingly for the definition of a scheme, the fit and proper person test and the National Supported Housing Standards.

“The response strengthens the ability of local authorities to weed out rogue landlords, whilst offering proportionate flexibility to ensure good providers are supported to meet licensing conditions. Guidance on licensing schemes will need to be strong to ensure a consistent approach across licensing authorities, to reduce the burden on providers and the potential for gaps in enforcement.

“We are glad to see that Housing Benefit entitlement will be linked to licensing conditions, alongside the rejection of changes to the definitions of care, support and supervision, as we recommended in our consultation response. This recognises the diversity of the sector and its residents, and the important role that low-level support schemes play in a healthy housing system.

“Supported housing is a crucial part of the entire housing system, offering a home and essential support for people with a range of needs. This response, alongside the requirement for local authorities to publish a supported housing strategy by March 2027, will provide more stability for the sector. However, without significant attention to the increasing costs of delivering high-quality services, this certainty may come too late to protect some schemes.

“CIH will continue to work with our members, the government and sector partners in ongoing consultation and implementation of the Act and believe that with the right resources, this could represent a turning point for protecting good provision. We will publish a detailed member briefing shortly. "