Whilst there is no update on the application process as yet, this is due to follow shortly. Below we summarise the key changes this new offer from the MOD will bring to improve living arrangements for those serving:
New standards for SLA
An assessment has been carried out across the MODs estate of Single Living Accommodation to identify where accommodation is not up to standard, and a minimum standard has been agreed. This assessment has also identified where investment is needed.
Support To Buy A Home
With Forces Help to Buy already a permanent fixture on the accommodation policy, there is now the additional benefit of support with legal expenses for first time buyers – refunding up to £1500 of legal expenses. With the average fee for buying a home in the UK around £2000 (plus VAT), this will support with the costs of buying.
Support For Those Commuting
An extension to Waivers of Single Living Accommodation charges so that all personnel who “have a Privately Maintained Property or retained Service Family Accommodation will receive a waiver, in accordance with current single Service rules irrespective of rank, age or marital status”. Service personnel that already benefit from the existing Single Living Accommodation waivers will continue to pay nothing.
Improvements To Overseas Accommodation
Those overseas haven’t been forgotten and with the Modernised Accommodation Offer already under way over here, the MOD are looking at ways to implement improvements overseas. The MOD has also said the Overseas Accommodation will be separate from the UK Policy to address the different challenges and ensuring needs are met.
Source: gov.uk