General Election results
A change of government brings hope and fresh opportunities. What positive change are we likely to see in our sector? What will really make a difference to the vital work that we do? And ultimately, what promises will we see honoured?
We want to work with the government and our partners on the changes we believe are necessary to create a future in which everyone has a safe, secure, and affordable place to call home.
With over 4 million people in need of an affordable home in England, we need this new government's commitment and action on the manifesto promise to mark a sea change.
The Labour government has promised to:
· Build 1.5 million homes over the next five.
· Increase Right to Buy discounts.
· Introduce mandatory housing targets for councils and recruit hundreds of new planners to tackle backlogs.
· Build on more brownfield land and preserve the green belt.
· An immediate ban on Section 21 evictions, also known as no-fault evictions.
· Extend Awaab's law.
· Work to end homelessness.
This commitment, which recognises the scale of the housing crisis and the challenges that the sector faces, will see more people gaining access to much-needed affordable housing. However, a long-term plan is still required to create lasting solutions for people who need it most, as well as the economy and the environment.
Not only does social housing provide safe and secure homes, support independence, create opportunities for those in need and strengthen communities, it also impacts our economy by £70 billion a year, with savings made by local authorities, the police, and the NHS, according to recent research from The Hyde Group. When people have stable, affordable housing, they are less likely to suffer from health issues related to poor living conditions, which can then reduce demand on the NHS and other care providers and improve overall community well-being.
We welcome change that will deliver a new, better era of social housing for all and the benefits it can bring individuals and wider society.
We will see how things unfold over the coming months and continue to focus our efforts on making a positive difference in people’s lives.