The MOD has today launched the Red Tape Challenge, inviting Service personnel and families to tell us about processes that are getting in the way of them enjoying their homes, so that we can work to change them.
This is just one of a series of new pledges setting out clear commitments to Service families on the quality of their homes, customer service, and ensuring their voices are heard.
The Defence Housing Strategy, launched in November, set out the MOD’s plans to reform military housing over the next decade. Backed by £9.2 billion of investment, it will be delivered through the Defence Housing Service, which will formally stand up in April 2027.
Outdated rules on keeping pets and how families can decorate have already been ripped up as part of the MOD’s mission to transform housing through its £9.2 billion-backed Defence Housing Strategy.
As part of these pledges, a new pilot is also being introduced that will give families a greater role in signing off repairs and maintenance work, helping to ensure issues are fully resolved and work is completed to the expected standard before jobs are closed.
A new Code of Conduct will also be introduced to promote a more respectful, consistent and accountable service from everyone involved in Defence housing, including contractors across the supply chain.
As part of the pledges, 1,000 previously unavailable homes are being brought back online for families, with refurbishment work already underway in locations including Tidworth and Catterick. Improvements to homes currently being lived in by families, will also continue as the MOD works towards its goal of modernising nine out of ten Service family homes over the next decade.
Together with the Red Tape Challenge, these changes will give families a stronger voice in how services are delivered, improve accountability and help ensure housing services are shaped by the experiences of those who use them every day.
For further information on the Red Tape Challenge click here.
Defence Secretary, Wes Streeting MP said:
“Service families should not feel that decisions about their homes are being made without them. These reforms are about giving families more power and control, with a stronger voice in shaping housing services and a clear route to challenge things that aren’t working.
“Alongside major investment in defence housing, we are determined to build a service that listens and delivers the standard of housing our Armed Forces and their families deserve.”
Defence Families Champion, Tricia Jakeman, said:
“Behind every military home is a family whose support is essential to operational life. Giving Service families a stronger voice in the decisions that affect them is not only the right thing to do, it is essential if we are to deliver the quality of housing and services they deserve.
“The changes we’ve seen over the past year show what can be achieved when families are listened to, and this is an important step in ensuring their voices continue to drive positive change.”