Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council amends its social housing policy to support Service leavers

August 14, 2026

Service leavers were not meeting ‘local connection’ requirements for social housing. 

What was the situation?

In Welwyn Hatfield, the waiting list for social housing was approximately three years. Civilians living in the area were generally aware of this timescale and could plan accordingly. However, some Service personnel were posted to the area shortly before leaving the Armed Forces, and therefore had less time to meet the council’s ‘local connection’ criteria.

What made this Covenant disadvantage?

Due to the nature of Service, members of the Armed Forces may be required to relocate more frequently than civilians. This can leave Service leavers with limited ability to establish local connection. This makes it more difficult for members of the Armed Forces community to qualify for social housing than civilians who have not had to relocate with the Armed Forces.

What was done to help?

Welwyn Hatfield Council reviewed its social housing allocations policy while considering the needs of the Armed Forces community. The council amended its banding arrangements for Service personnel leaving the Armed Forces through giving notice. The policy now takes account of the shorter timeframe they may have lived in the area before transitioning to civilian life.

What was the outcome?

Service leavers were able to access social housing support that reflected their circumstances. By recognising the shorter timeframe faced by some individuals leaving the Armed Forces, barriers to access were reduced. Service leavers were not disadvantaged compared to civilians on the housing waiting list.

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.