Unclear definitions in the framework for Supporting People could have major implications for people who are HIV positive, it has emerged.
Confusion over what constitutes short-term and long-term services could lead to people opting out of care when rent and support costs are separated next year, experts warn.

Providers are concerned that increased service charges could also act as a disincentive to work.

Support services currently paid through housing benefit will be paid via a Supporting People fund distributed by councils from April 2003.

However, people may have to meet some of the charges themselves. This is because, while some short-term services will be exempt from charges, the sector is unsure what will be classed as short-term.

Strutton Housing Association provides housing and support for HIV positive people in London. Chief executive, Kirsteen Murray, called on the government to clarify whether people who are not continuously ill would be classified as short-term users.

“Managing their tenancies will be problematic – and that will have an impact on tenants’ wellbeing and anxiety levels,” she said.

The move means that individual assessments of each tenant will become necessary, she explained.

And arrangements will have to be in place for people who temporarily recover, to ease them back into support.

It is feared that people could slip through the net because they cannot afford the charges.

National Housing Federation head of housing management and support Kathleen Boyle (pictured) said the great advantage of Supporting People was that it made supported housing more affordable for people in work.

“In light of this, the government must ensure that their charging proposals do not cancel this out,” she said.

A DTLR spokeswoman said: “The details of charging under Supporting People are being considered. The consultation paper is a chance for providers to review the proposals and contribute.

“A possible outcome would be for HIV sufferers to be exempt from charges altogether.”