DASH have secured funding from Durham County Council’s Commuted Sums budget and funding from Homes England to support the conversion of the first floor and part of the ground floor to provide 4no. 1 bedroom self-contained flats which will be let at affordable rent.
The new accommodation will be let in accordance with DASH’s allocation policy with a strong emphasis on local connection. People will be welcome to apply for the flats which will be available in spring 2021. DASH will be advertising properties in line with Durham County Council’s Key Options and the County Council will have some nomination rights.
As you are aware, DASH provides accommodation and support for homeless people and people at risk of homelessness, however from now on the charity will also be providing affordable homes for local people. DASH became a Registered Provider of Social Housing in March this year and will now develop capacity to build or refurbish properties to rent as affordable homes for local families.
Social housing gives people a home, it’s cheaper to rent than privately rented housing and usually provides a long-term tenancy, giving renters the chance to put down roots.
Being a Registered Provider of Social Housing will be an extension to the work the charity already does in providing accommodation and support for homeless people and people at risk of homelessness. This excellent service will continue to be delivered and will be unaffected by the development of an affordable housing arm to the organisation.
Les Punton, Chair of DASH said; “We are delighted to have secured funds from Durham County Council and Homes England to develop our HQ at Hudson House to provide four self-contained flats which are much needed in the area. We look forward to developing more affordable accommodation in the future”
