Following the introduction of Universal Credit, Housing Benefit was generally closed for new claims by people under pension age.
However the rules that closed Housing Benefit left it open for new claims for specified accommodation.
Paragraph 6(8) of schedule 1 Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2014 [SI 2014/1230]
Article 6(2) of The Welfare Reform Act 2012 (Commencement No. 21 and Transitional and Transitory Provisions) Order 2015
Article 7(3) of The Welfare Reform Act 2012 (Commencement No. 23 and Transitional and Transitory Provisions) Order 2015
There are two different pathways to understanding what is meant by specified accommodation.
One definition of specified accommodation says that it is accommodation which is provided by a relevant body; into which the claimant has been admitted in order to meet a need for care, support or supervision; and where the claimant receives care, support or supervision.
Paragraph 3A(3) of schedule 1 of the Universal Credit Regulations 2012 [SI 2013/376]
The definition of a relevant body includes a housing association, a registered charity or voluntary organisation.
Paragraph 3A(6)(d) of schedule 1 of the Universal Credit Regulations 2012 [SI 2013/376]
The definition of a voluntary organisation includes a body (other than a public or local authority) whose activities are carried on otherwise than for profit.
Paragraph 1 of schedule 1 of the Universal Credit Regulations 2012 [SI 2013/376]
Another definition of specified accommodation says that it is exempt accommodation
Paragraph 3A(2) of schedule 1 of the Universal Credit Regulations 2012 [SI 2013/376]
Exempt accommodation includes accommodation which is… provided by a… housing association, a registered charity or voluntary organisation where that body… also provides the claimant with care, support or supervision
Paragraph 2 of Schedule 4 of the Universal Credit Regulations 2013[SI2013/376] and Paragraph 4(10) of Schedule 3 to the Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit (Consequential Provisions) Regulations 2006 [SI 2006/217]
Here are the relevant laws:
The Universal Credit Regulations
The Transitional Provisions Regulations