People most in need will be prioritised under a new policy set to deliver fairer access to social housing.
Pembrokeshire County Council, in partnership with housing associations, has approved the updated Choice Homes @ Pembrokeshire Allocations Policy. It sets out how social housing will be allocated and how applicants will be prioritised, taking into account both housing need and their connection to the county.
The policy comes into effect from October 2026.
Councillor Michelle Bateman, cabinet member for housing, said: "Ensuring that housing is allocated in a consistent and fair way is critical to ensure those with the most housing need can access social housing.
"I am pleased that we have worked closely with our housing association partners to agree this new Policy. We will be running a number of drop-in sessions for local residents over the next few months, and I look forward to attending these."
Developed with ateb, Wales & West Housing, Barcud, and Codi (formerly Pobl) Housing Associations, the revised policy responds to increasing pressures on housing and homelessness services as well as changes in Welsh housing law.
Its goal is to ensure that those in greatest need are prioritised while making the best use of limited housing stock.
From August 1, 2026, applications under the current policy will no longer be accepted.
New applications will be held and assessed under the updated policy from October 2026.
All current applicants will be contacted in the coming weeks to explain the changes and what they need to do to remain on the housing register.
Demand for social housing in Pembrokeshire has risen sharply, with more families facing homelessness, living in temporary accommodation, or staying in unsuitable housing.
The new policy introduces clearer criteria for eligibility, banding (A-D), medical and welfare needs, overcrowding, local connection, and access to age-restricted, accessible, and affordable housing.
It also strengthens measures to ensure applicants cannot gain unfair priority.
The Choice Homes @ Pembrokeshire scheme operates as a combined housing register for all partner organisations, with priority given based on assessed need.
The policy supports key groups including people experiencing homelessness, those in unsuitable housing, individuals with medical or mobility needs, foster and kinship carers, older people, armed forces personnel, and care leavers.
