A new housing system and website is being rolled out across Kent to create a more user-friendly service for people on the housing register.
The system, which will be run by provider Huume, will go live in July 2023
Once launched, applicants will continue to log into their accounts and be able to view and bid on properties in the Folkestone and Hythe district as and when they become available, the same as they do now.
To move from the current system to the new one, however, it is essential that any new online applications to the housing register are suspended for a month while outstanding ones are completed, and data moved over.
This will happen from 1 June 2023, and Folkestone & Hythe District Council is suggesting applicants wanting to apply to the register put in new applications well before this date.
If clients approach the F&HDC housing management service and are considered to be vulnerable and in a high housing need, it will be possible for their applications to be added manually to the Huume system during the period that the housing register is suspended. The register, including online registration, will resume on 1 July 2023.
A council spokesperson said “The system will have a new look, be more streamlined and easier to navigate and provide a better overall service for those looking for homes.
“The process for people who find themselves unexpectedly homeless or requiring housing options advice during that month will still be in place.”
Kent Homechoice is a partnership of 13 local authorities, 28 housing associations and Kent County Council, which was set up to provide a way to apply for affordable and social housing. The partnership undertook a procurement process in early 2022 and Huume Ltd won the contract.
For more information about the housing register or to submit an application visit our website.