Reply:
46 -
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
In 1994/95, 2,021 flats were allocated under the compassionate rehousing scheme, exceeding the original quota of 2,000 flats reserved for the scheme. In the first two months of 1995/96, 216 flats were allocated for compassionate rehousing, against the full year quota of 2,000 flats.
The aim of the compassionate rehousing scheme is to help individuals and families who have a genuine and immediate housing need because of specific circumstances and personal factors. Applications for compassionate rehousing are assessed according to a set of criteria which include an assessment of the housing need, family, financial and The residential status and relevant social and medical grounds. applications approved for compassionate rehousing are not categorised in terms of the applicants' living and health conditions and such a breakdown is, therefore, not readily available.
There are standardised guidelines for processing applications for compassionate rehousing which are followed by staff of SWD. The guidelines cover the eligibility criteria, completion of requisite forms and time limits for processing the applications.
HD will not re-examine an applicant's eligibility for compassionate rehousing if the application has been recommended by SWD. In line with the standard allocation procedures for public housing units, HD will only conduct a simple check and pre-letting interview to confirm that an applicant is not currently receiving any other form of public housing benefit, and to ascertain his/her identity and choice of district. Subject to the availability of public rental flats, the applicant's choice of district will be entertained as far as practicable.
There is a clear division of responsibilities between SWD and HD in implementing the compassionate rehousing scheme. While SWD is responsible for assessing the applications and recommending eligible cases for compassionate rehousing, HD is responsible for the allocation of flats. There are mutually agreed working procedures and channels of communication between the two Departments to ensure the effectiveness of the scheme in helping needy clients.
End/Wednesday, June 21, 1995