This module aims to provide students with a basic knowledge and understanding of the underlying concepts and principles of Housing Advice. Topics to be covered in line with the CLS Quality Mark Standard for Generalist Help include:

- The development of central and local Government housing policy;
- Current issues in housing reform
- The right to accommodation, including homelessness and re-housing;
- Security of occupation; repossession and tenant's rights;
- Paying for housing
- Implications of European Convention on Human Rights;
- Disrepair and other common problems

1. An assignment (2000 words) 100% (learning outcomes 1, 2 & 3)
Students will be required to identify the legal rights of a "client", and present and discuss appropriate options.

OR

2. A case study (2000 words) 100% (learning outcomes 1,2 & 3)
Students are required to describe one or more of their own cases, and explain the advice given to the client(s).

- Astin, D. (2008) Housing Law: an Adviser's handbook, Legal Action Group
- Hughes, G. et al (2005) Text and Materials on Housing Law, Oxford University Press
- Morgan, J. (2007) Aspects of Housing Law, Abingdon, Routledge -Cavendish
- Randall, G. (2010) Housing Rights Guide. London. Shelter

Nil

- Computer with Internet access
- Key texts

The focus of this module is on a mix of independent as well as directed study.

Contact Hours (30) on this module means your on-screen hours engaging with the online study materials contained within the `Course Information', `Course Documents' `Communication' and `Assignments' sections of the module virtual learning environment (VLE).

Independent Study (120) means on-line and off-line activity including working on tasks/exercises/activities and within the discussion forums, relevant background/supplementary reading, and assessment preparation and completion.

This module will be delivered by the use of a VLE

The VLE will provide a structured environment for progressing through this module. The `Course Information' section contains essential module information, the award handbook, the module descriptor and a section, which contains the aims and objectives of the module. The `Course Documents' section contains all the study material necessary to complete the module, together with activities associated with this material. Within the `Communications' section there are a number of forums, which will enable interactive, asynchronous discussion, which supports student learning and allows for formative assessment of individual progress.

Participants are encouraged to communicate with the tutor and their fellow students using email, telephone and the discussion forums and to do so if there are matters needing assistance and support.

Web-based material will be utilised to support all aspects of the module, providing links to latest Government information and latest case law and legislation.

As this is a distance learning award, participants will need to adopt a disciplined approach to study and work for example by ensuring that activities, tasks and assignments are completed within specified time limits and that discussion with others takes place