Housing Associations Housing Department Housing Associations Housing home Housing Associations are non-profit making organisations which build new homes, or improve existing ones, and rent them out to people in housing need. Each association is controlled by a Management Committee of volunteers and run by skilled staff. Although associations are independent bodies, they work very closely with local Councils. Associations provide self-contained flats and houses for households of all sizes, as well as shared accommodation such as hostels for young single people. Purpose-built housing is also provided for special needs groups such as the elderly or disabled.
Most homes provided are for rent, although some associations also provide accommodation for sale.
Most associations keep Waiting Lists of households seeking their accommodation and allocate to people on their list. Each association has its own allocation policy which can be made available on request. In addition, other organisations and voluntary groups may be able to refer applicants to the association. Most importantly, housing associations work very closely with local authorities and often house people from the Housing Department's Waiting List. In allocating homes, a housing association will aim to help those people with the greatest need.