PRESS RELEASE

Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, has today welcomed the consideration by the Minister for Housing and Regeneration to amending the category of former prisoners under the Homeless Persons (Priority Need) Order (Wales) 2001.

Janet said: “It is fair to say that this policy has not served the residents of Aberconwy since its implementation. The Priority Needs Order affords ex-offenders priority on housing waiting lists, thereby denying families, young people and others much needed homes.”

During a question to the Minister, the Assembly Member has provided further evidence that this policy, which only applies in Wales, is not working. Ex-offenders comprise a greater proportion of waiting lists than some of the most vulnerable groups. Furthermore, Conwy County Borough Council’s response to the consultation has confirmed that tenuous local connections have been cited as a means of obtaining priority.  

The opposition Member thanked the Minister for his fair and sensible approach on this important issue. Janet said: “The Minister is so-minded to bring forth proposals that would shift emphasis to a status of vulnerability, rather than solely on that as an ex-offender. I welcome these changes.”

ENDS