General Housing Register Live Online Form

In March 2024 we launched the new online form for General Register applications (social housing). It is very important for us to get it right in terms of useability and accessibility.

The online form has replaced the previous system where applicants downloaded an editable PDF form from our website and were then asked to email in any supporting evidence. This was very difficult for customers to use, especially on mobile devices. It was also difficult and time-consuming for staff to process and assess the applications, leading to a backlog which is currently 5 and a half months. It was an urgent priority for Housing Needs to improve this service.

We designed the form so it’s shorter, easier, and more accessible for people to use and easier to upload documents. It will be easier for officers to process, and we hope it will reduce the backlog meaning that people will know the result of their application quicker.

You gave some valuable feedback in terms of how easy the form was to use and how helpful the additional guidance was. The vast majority of feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

We are addressing these any areas for change you have recommended. The digital form allows us to update and make small changes quickly and easily as soon as issues arise.

We have been receiving applications with ease and processing times will start to improve.