Living in a home which is in good condition, that the household can afford to heat, and is in an area in which they feel safe and well supported by the local community underpins the wellbeing of individuals and families.

The impact of poor housing in childhood can affect an individual for a lifetime and can affect physical, social, and psychological development. Damp, mould, cold, and overcrowded conditions can lead directly to physical illness and there is also increasing evidence that poor housing conditions can seriously affect people’s mental health and sense of wellbeing.

In November 2022, we were successful (along with North East Derbyshire DC) in securing £20,000 from the LGA Housing Advisors Programme to develop a Private Sector Housing Strategy for each district. We appointed Arc4 Housing consultants and work began in April 2023.

As a result of the work with the consultants, we are introducing a Private Sector Housing Strategy and would appreciate your views on the proposed objectives by completing our survey (opens in a new window). We recognise that the private sector performs a vital role in meeting housing need across the district, both private rented and home ownership. Housing is a key determinant of health, and we want to ensure homes are safe, warm, and sustainable and for private rented, well managed.

Following stakeholder feedback and stock condition information, the strategy sets out four objectives which we feel will improve property conditions and provide access to well managed private sector housing. The questionnaire will go through the four objectives and 11 desired outcomes to see if you agree or disagree with them as well as asking you to rank the priority order for proposed actions under each objective.

The consultation will close on Sunday 3 March 2024 and once you have completed the survey, if you have any additional comments you can This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (opens in a new window) them to us.