Local authorities are from today able to put a bid in to receive support from the Local Government Association (LGA) to help them tackle the housing shortage.

The Housing Advisers Programme will award up to £20,000 to council projects that are designed to meet the housing needs of communities. The funding will enable councils to access expert advice.

‘Councils want to be able to play a key role in building new homes and tackling our housing shortage, which will be a central part of the recovery from the pandemic,’ said Cllr David Renard, LGA housing spokesperson.

‘The pandemic has demonstrated the importance and value of having a safe, secure and high-quality place to live.

‘The Housing Advisers Programme has delivered a broad range of support since it was first launched five years ago, helping councils deliver local priorities by tapping into the expert advice they need to innovate and improve the delivery of homes and places, the quality and security of existing homes and/or to prevent and reduce homelessness

‘We would recommend councils take a look at the programme as there are ways it can bring benefits to every local area.’

To find out more, visit Housing Advisers Programme or email housingadvisers@local.gov.uk