New Forest District Council approves new policy to support tenants wishing to downsize their home

Thursday, 8 October 2026 05:30

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has approved a new policy to support tenants who wish to downsize.

The plan will help to reduce underoccupancy across its homes, increase the availability of larger family homes, and ensure tenants are supported in finding accommodation that best meets their needs.

The Right Home, Right Time voluntary downsizing policy is designed to support tenants who are under-occupying their council property and wish to move to a smaller home, enabling larger accommodation to be re-let to households in housing need.

The policy was developed through engagement with tenants and consultation with the Tenant Engagement Group (TIG) to ensure it reflects their needs. It sets out how the council will provide practical, emotional, and financial support to tenants, including tailored housing advice, help with property bidding, wellbeing and welfare support, financial guidance, and assistance with settling into their new home.

To encourage voluntary moves, NFDC is also offering incentive payments based on the number of bedrooms released, up to a maximum of £3,500.

Cllr Steve Davies, portfolio holder for housing and homelessness, said: "Our new Right Home, Right Time policy provides a structured and supportive way to help tenants who are considering a move to a smaller property, ensuring they have access to the advice, guidance, and practical assistance they need throughout the process.

"For many tenants, moving to a home that better suits their circumstances can bring significant benefits, including lower household costs, more manageable accommodation, improved accessibility, and greater independence.

"At the same time, it will help make the best use of homes by freeing up larger homes for families who need them, helping us meet housing need across the district and support more tenants into the right home at the right time."

Following approval of the policy, NFDC will begin contacting tenants with further details and how they can register their interest.

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