Client indicates preference for specific provider

A client can request to be referred to a specific housing provider because they have a particular need or simply due to preference.

For example, a client may be currently getting other social services from that housing provider.

When possible, clients will be referred to housing providers that provide the best housing services to meet their needs.

For example, some clients may be:

• referred to providers on the basis of their:
  • relationship status
• referred to providers offering specialist services for single parents, vulnerable singles, for example, sole parent or released prisoners
  • disability or health condition
• referred to providers offering wrap-around services or tailored services, for example for people with mental illness or physical disabilities
  • age
• referred to housing for older people and kaumatua
  • family status
• referred to social housing for low-income families

Note these specific housing services are only offered by community housing providers.

When the client's preference significantly restricts their referral opportunities, you will need to explain that this is likely to result in a longer wait period for referral and encourage them to expand their choice of housing providers.

Clients may still be referred to other housing providers when there is a property available that meets their housing needs. If a client does not accept this property without a good and sufficient reason, it may affect their eligibility to continue to be offered social housing.

For more information see: