Housing Options
This section includes information on what other options are
available in Rochdale.
Please click on the links for more information.
Mutual Exchange
If you are currently a RBH or Housing Association Tenant and you
wish to move, another option for you is an exchange. A mutual
exchange is where a tenant can arrange to swap homes with another
tenant. This may be a quicker way of getting the property type you
need in the area you want.
To apply you can tick the relevant question on the Housing
Application Form which enables your details to be publicised on the
exchange list. Please note this list is open to public view at RBH
offices.
RBH also have a 'Swap Shop' at The Old Post Office, The
Esplanade, Rochdale. Here you can complete a Swap Shop Exchange
form and have your details displayed in The Property Shop within 24
hours of the HomeChoice.
Homeswapper
The Homeswapper service enables RBH tenants to swap homes with
tenants living within the borough. Once registered, the Scheme will
search to find you “matches” in your chosen area and as well as
being notified of possible matches by email and text, your details
will appear on national swap lists. You can also use this facility
to move to other parts of the country.
Unless you state otherwise, your details will be registered onto
Homeswapper to assist you in looking for an exchange. If you
think you would like to swap, log onto the Homeswapper website at:
http://www.homeswapper.co.uk/and
start planning your future move today.
Housing Associations
There are a variety of other Housing Associations with different
kinds of properties in various locations around the borough. You
can apply directly to them, or you can be put forward by RBH to
some of the available properties they have. This is a good way for
you to increase your chances of being rehoused.
Many of the Housing Associations in the borough will also
advertise their properties on the weekly HomeChoice advert.
Pinpoint
Pinpoint is a web based choice based lettings scheme which
advertises a range of properties for rent in all the 10 Greater
Manchester authority areas; some properties are council, some are
Housing Association and others are advertised by private rental
landlords.
It is a great way to access more housing both in the borough and
across Greater Manchester.
It’s easy! All that you need to do is register with RBH for
rehousing and it will automatically give you access to express an
interest on any of the Pinpoint accommodation.
If you’re interested visit the Pinpoint website at: http://www.pinpoint.org.uk/
Private Rented Sector Accommodation
Rochdale has a large varied private rented sector which offers
another option for rehousing. This can offer a quicker housing
solution than waiting for a property from RBH. If you are looking
to be rehoused quickly or want one particular area then this is an
option to be considered.
Lodgers
If you are unable to manage the extra rent required due to the
Welfare Benefit Reforms. Perhaps you would be interested in taking
in lodgers.
Please contact the HomeChoice Team to express your interest or
tick the relevant box on the application form.
Affordable Housing
Affordable housing is a way for those who cannot afford market
prices to get on the property ladder.
If you are interested in affordable housing then you need to
register for rehousing and tick the Affordable Housing tick box on
the application form. RBH will then forward your details to the
relevant Council Team.
Help for homeless people
If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness the Council
will be able to offer you help and advice. They may also be able to
offer you temporary accommodation (subject to an assessment).
Contact the homelessness team on 0845 6024995 for more
information or call into tfor an interview at the office:
Homelessness Prevention and Housing Options Service
Number 1 Riverside
Smith Street
Rochdale OL16 1XU
Opening times:
Monday 9.30 –
12.00 1.00 – 3.30
Tuesday 9.30 –
12.00 1.00 – 3.30
Wednesday 9.30 –
12.00 1.00 – 3.30
Thursday 9.30 –
12.00 1.00 – 2.30
Friday 9.30 –
12.00 1.00 – 2.30
The telephone line, 0845 6024995 is open from 8.30am –
4.45pm
Domestic abuse
Everyday, hundreds of men and women in the UK are abused in
their own homes. This abuse can be physical, sexual and/or
emotional and can affect people of all ages, cultures and
backgrounds.
If this is happening to you, you can get help from the Council's
Homelessness Prevention and Housing Options Service. The section
has a legal duty to help you, whether or not you have children. You
will be able to discuss your options in confidence with
understanding staff.
Contact the homelessness team on 0845 602 4995 for more
information.