Difficulty in social functioning or lack of social skills

Difficulties in social functioning and a lack of social skills can mean the tenant can't sustain alternative housing.

The tenant may not be able to find a suitable property due to difficulties in social functioning or lack of social skills caused by:

• a lack of necessary confidence and skills
• a lack of knowledge, for example, does not know who to approach to discuss other housing options
• has only ever had a social housing provider as a landlord
• lacks confidence in private sector or distrusts private landlords

When the tenant has a serious or severe and persistent level of social dysfunction requiring a high level of support, they will continue to qualify for social housing.

Sometimes moving properties will have an impact on the tenant's ability to maintain independent living.

MSD will need to consider the level of impact, for example:

• What are the support networks the tenant has in the community they are living in currently?
  • family, neighbours or community organisations
  • clubs and activities

• Will other accommodation provide the same support or level of support?
  • access to essential services (via proximity or public transport)
  • feelings of security and safety in the home
  • a sense of wellbeing from established community links and knowledge

If moving properties will severely impact on the tenant's ability to maintain independent living, they will continue to qualify for social housing.

MSD need to see verification from a third party about the level of impact on the tenant.

Examples include (but are not limited to) tenants:

• with a health condition, injury or disability, eg tenants with a terminal illness, who are blind or whose sight is significantly impaired
• at risk tenants, e.g. households who have been subject to family violence and may have a protection order or property order in place
• older tenants