Islanders aged between 18 and 25 years old are now eligible to apply for social rented housing as part of a series of changes to eligibility criteria that come into force today.

The new rules, introduced by Housing Minister Sam Mézec, lower the minimum age for applicants without children from 25 to 18 year olds.

Applicants aged between 18 and 24 will need to demonstrate that they are financially independent and able to meet rent, bills and other living costs.

They will receive tailored support from the Housing Advice Service, including guidance to help prepare for a successful tenancy and to navigate an appropriate housing pathway.

Young people who need additional help before living independently may be referred to specialist organisations that support confidence-building and independent living skills.

A new “general needs” band has also been introduced for households that are seeking long-term affordability and housing stability, even if their income or savings are currently above the capped threshold for social housing.

Access through this band will be subject to availability, with priority continuing to be given to those in urgent need.

Other measures coming into effect include the removal of restrictions that previously prevented people granted Entitled status on hardship grounds from accessing social housing.

The length of time an Entitled person must be resident in Jersey before becoming eligible has also been reduced from six months to three.

In addition, income thresholds will now be reviewed annually to ensure they remain aligned with affordability and cost-of-living pressures, while long-standing applications will be reviewed quarterly to support timely allocations and identify barriers that may be preventing applicants from being housed.

A targeted review of Band 1 prioritisation will also be carried out to ensure urgent housing needs continue to be met while making best use of available housing stock.

Deputy Mézec said: “With the increasing supply of new properties, we’re opening up more opportunities for islanders to secure an affordable, high-quality home with Andium Homes or one of the Housing Trusts.

“I’m especially pleased that we’re strengthening support for young people, giving them choice and stability as they plan their future in Jersey.”

He added: “We’re committed to ensuring young islanders have a clear and supported route into housing so they can feel confident about their future.

“The Housing Advice Service will continue to guide young people into the pathway that best supports their needs.

“If a young person requires extra support before living independently in social housing, services such as JAYF or the Shelter Trust’s 18-25 Project provide a valuable stepping stone.”

Islanders interested in applying can do so online through the Affordable Housing Gateway on the Government of Jersey website.