SHDC "launches new housing support for communities"

In its drive to tackle the housing crisis, South Hams District Council has today launched the South Hams Housing Offer, which "will help local communities deliver more affordable homes in their area".

One of the most challenging problems residents face is a shortage of properties which they can afford, and the South Hams Housing Offer will "help remove some of the barriers for communities trying to bring housing projects forward".
 
The South Hams Housing Offer provides funding and support to help communities kickstart housing projects, connect with Registered Providers (of social housing) and deliver homes where and how they are needed most. 
 
For communities showing appetite in delivering homes in their local area, funding and practical help is available through the Housing Offer.

This could be for communities just starting out who need help with setting up and exploring sites, or for more established groups such as Community Land Trusts who may already have a site in mind and need help with the next steps. 
 
Landowners wishing to support their communities deliver much needed affordable housing can also receive practical help on how to donate or sell land. 
 
More information, including how to apply can be found at www.southhams.gov.uk/SHHO 

Councillor Denise O’Callaghan, Executive Member for Housing at South Hams District Council, said: “For communities who, like us, are passionate about providing more affordable homes, our South Hams Housing Offer couldn’t come at a better time.

"Local people know their towns and parishes more than anyone, which is why we want to help them deliver housing where and how it’s needed most. 
 
“We encourage those in the community, whether that be a new or already established group or landowner, to take advantage of the funding and practical support that we can offer. 
 
“Housing is a top priority for us - by working together with communities, we can deliver more homes for our residents.”