Why are Waiting Lists Getting Longer?

Demand for social housing continues to increase, with the number of applicants on the waiting list increasing from 25,903 in 2002 to 36,350 at 31 March 2006.  

Similarly the number of applicants considered to be in housing stress (assessed as having 30 points or more under the Common Selection Scheme) has continued to increase from 12,449 in 2002 to 19,801 at 31 March 2007 (representing 54% of the total Waiting List).

Who's on the list?

Approximately half of the applicants on the overall Waiting List are currently owner occupiers or renting privately.  

Our analysis confirms that the Waiting List continues to have a high proportion of single people, but there is also a substantial number of elderly applicants and small families.  

Applicants are assessed under a Common Selection Scheme introduced in November 2000.  

The Scheme represents a single gateway into social housing in Northern Ireland regardless of whether the applicants wish to be considered for Housing Executive or Housing Association accommodation, or both.