Gateshead Council employs outreach officer to improve Armed Forces’ access to housing

August 14, 2026

Members of the Armed Forces community were struggling to access local authority housing support services due to a lack of awareness. 

What was the situation?

In 2012, Gateshead Council identified that relatively few members of the Armed Forces community were accessing its housing services. This was believed to be because some members of the Armed Forces community were not aware of the housing support available to them.

What made this Covenant disadvantage?

Members of the Armed Forces community can experience unique housing challenges related to their Service. For example, when relocating with the Armed Forces or transitioning to civilian life.

They may also be less aware of the support available in their local area, due to their frequent relocations. This means they may be less likely to access appropriate advice and assistance compared to civilians.

What was done to help?

Gateshead Council funded a dedicated Armed Forces Outreach Officer to strengthen the connection between the Council and the local Armed Forces community. This led to a 25% increase in members of the Armed Forces Community approaching Gateshead Council for housing advice. During 2020/21, the regional Armed Forces Outreach Service, including Newcastle, Durham and Northumberland local authorities and Believe Housing, supported 424 members of the Armed Forces community. It also secured £61,979 to help clear rent arrears; ensured 93 individuals received the correct social housing priority; and supported 76 people to move into social housing.

What was the outcome?

More members of the Armed Forces community became aware of and accessed housing support services. The dedicated outreach officer increased the Armed Forces’ engagement with housing providers; helping individuals access advice; secure appropriate housing support; and address issues such as rent arrears and housing priority.

Wider information

You can read more widely about:

• Covenant disadvantage and special provision (the two types of case study in this database)
• Covenant support for the Armed Forces community: Housing
• How local authorities can support the Armed Forces community and implement the Covenant

Disclaimer: This case study is part of the Covenant case study database. MOD has developed the database to illustrate examples of good practice for organisations in scope of the Covenant. It serves as a guide for effective Covenant delivery, offering practical insights into achieving fairness for the Armed Forces community. Delivery of the Covenant may vary across the UK. This means there is no guarantee the solution outlined in this case study is available in your area.