More islanders can access Jersey's social rented housing waiting list from this month.

Previously-announced changes to who is eligible for the Affordable Housing Gateway took effect on Friday 1 September.

Islanders over the age 35 and without children can now apply.  It had previously been restricted to over 40s.

It was lowered from 50 in April 2022,and is due to be further reduced to 30 in March 2024.

In January 2023 the amount a person or household can earn to be eligible for the Gateway went up.

Income thresholds have been increased for a second time this year.

Single parents with one child being able to earn as much as £61,956 - a jump of more than £1,000.

Joint applicants with 3 or more children earning up to £92,079 - up nearly £20,000.

Plus there is more provision for separated families and for grandparents who care for children with additional needs.

"A “second” household is now eligible to apply for a home with one additional bedroom, to accommodate child stays.

Until now, only the “first” household has been eligible to access additional bedrooms for children.

Grandparents who provide care for their grandchild(ren) with additional needs are also now eligible to request a transfer to a two-bedroom home." - Government of Jersey.

Housing Minister Deputy David Warr says, with Andium Homes on track to deliver 3000 new homes by 2030, the government is in a position to start relaxing some of the criteria around social rented homes:

 “There are many Islanders who don’t have the advantage of family money, family property or the ‘bank of mum and dad’ and it’s a priority for me to ensure that they are not left behind and have a bright future living here in Jersey.”

Islanders can apply for affordable rented housing via the form on www.gov.je/housinggateway

The Housing Advice Service can be contacted on 01534 444444 or by emailing housingadvice@gov.je