New tool estimates social housing wait times in Dorset amid high demand, offering transparency and aiding housing choices.
Over 6,000 people are awaiting homes in Dorset now. Housing demand is much bigger than the supply. Last year, the council housed nearly 900 families; that’s about 73 homes each month. Still, the wait can take a long time.
The council worked with various people on this tool. Residents, councillors, and officers helped create it. They also tested it before release.
The calculator shows housing availability around Dorset. People can access this information anytime. Hopefully, the data helps people see potential wait times. Then, they can consider their housing choices.
This tool is part of the council’s transparency pledge. They want to make social housing access easier. It works with the housing officers’ service. They discuss individual cases and answer questions.