Downsizing Information

• Are you a Rotherham Council tenant?
• Do you live in a home which is too large for you to maintain?
• Have your children left the nest leaving you with space you no longer need?
• Are you struggling with stairs, the garden or the size of your bills?
• Are you thinking about moving to a smaller property but are worried about the move itself?

The Council is offering tenants who are under occupying family accommodation the chance to downsize quickly and easily to a smaller, more suitable property.

You can downsize from a 2, 3 or 4 bedroom house to a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom flat / maisonette or bungalow (but you must still meet the eligibility criteria for that property and age limits may apply).

If you live in a 4 bedroom house, you can even downsize to a 2 bedroom house!

You could be given Priority Plus status on the Housing Register to enable you to move quickly and you can still choose the area you want to live in.

Moving to a smaller, more manageable property could save you money by reducing outgoings on rent, council tax and bills.

Moving from a 4 bedroom house to a 1 bedroom flat could save you as much as £1,950 per year.

Moving from a 3 bedroom house to a 1 bedroom flat could save you as much as £1,210 per year.

If you are having trouble climbing stairs or your health is affected in some other way by your housing situation, we can arrange for someone to visit you and assess your medical needs. Simply complete the online self assessment form

We can also help you with finding a new home, bidding for properties each week and give advice on removals etc. Complete the under occupying self referral form and we will take care of the rest.

Alternatively, for more help and information, Email the Downsizing Officer downsizing@rotherham.co.uk  or contact Key Choices on 01709 336040.

Last update: 20/04/2012