What does Local Connection mean?

To have a local connection, you usually need to have lived in the area for a set period of time. This time period varies from Council to Council. Depending on the Council, they may also accept the following as evidence of a local connection:

• Close family connections in the area (usually immediate family who have lived in the area for a considerable amount of time)
• The need to move in order to give or receive support
• Employment in the area

To find out more about your Council’s local connection criteria, please refer to the Council’s Housing Allocations Policy. This is usually available on the Council’s website, or you can request a copy directly from the Council. 

If you do not have a local connection with the Council you have applied to, they may require you to apply to a different Council where you have a stronger connection. 

There are exceptions to the local connection rule. For example, if you are fleeing violence, you do not need to meet local connection criteria. Please note that the Council will usually require evidence if you are fleeing violence.