Changes coming to local social housing system: Wyre Forest Home Choice launched
News release issued:
Residents looking for social rented housing or low‑cost home ownership in the Wyre Forest district will soon need to use a new system to bid for available homes. From 31 March 2026, all property bidding will take place through Wyre Forest Home Choice, replacing the current Home Choice Plus system.
The new system is open now for registration, allowing residents to set up their accounts ahead of the March launch. However, bidding on properties will not begin until 31 March.
Anyone already registered with Home Choice Plus will have received a letter or email explaining the changes. To ensure there is no disruption to their housing application, residents must re‑register on Wyre Forest Home Choice before 31 March to keep their existing banding. Documents including ID will be required during the registration process. Visit the Wyre Forest Home Choice website to start the registration process.
Officers will be available to help anyone with limited access to a computer or the internet complete the registration process. Please contact 01562 732720, 01562 732756 or email the team to book an appointment.
Wyre Forest District Council manages the housing waiting list for those seeking social rented homes or options for low‑cost home ownership, working closely with local housing associations (Registered Providers) to help residents access suitable housing.
Social housing includes low‑cost homes available to rent or part‑buy from Registered Providers. The council does not own any housing stock.
Councillor Chris Rogers Cabinet Member for Housing, Health and Wellbeing, said:
“We’re excited to launch this new system dedicated to making local social housing more accessible for those who need it most. Anyone who registers before 31 March will keep their current banding if their circumstances haven’t changed and will be ready to bid on homes as soon as they become available. Please remember that registrations will not transfer automatically.”
The council also offers advice and support to help residents find and keep their homes. Due to high demand, social housing is allocated to households with the greatest need and a strong local connection to the district.