Two new reports from research led by the University of Huddersfield highlight housing and homelessness issues during the cost-of-living crunch.
The researchers collaborated with the Northern Housing Consortium and the Center for Homelessness Impact on these reports. They examine poor-quality housing and connections between refugee resettlement and homelessness.
The first report, “Living in Fear,” zooms in on housing in the north of England. It’s based on chats with renters and homeowners during the early days of COVID-19 and in 2023. The report suggests a three-step plan for the government to tackle these issues.
Housing issues
“During the winter months, people living in poor housing conditions are more likely to die as a result of respiratory, circulatory and cardiovascular diseases and are more likely to experience depression and anxiety,” the researchers explain.
“In certain parts of the U.K., such as the north of England, this is made even worse by the prevalence of older, colder and poorly maintained properties. But even if you are fortunate enough to have adequate accommodation, this does not insulate you from the spiraling cost of living, in particular rising energy prices.”
The research proposes a three-step plan to help households facing financial challenges:
- Fast-tracking the Renters’ Reform Bill to put an end to evictions without a specific reason.
- Ensuring that Local Housing Allowance levels keep up with the rising costs of rents.
- Introducing new assistance for energy bills, including a ‘social tariff’ to help people manage the increasing costs of gas and electricity.
Growing problem
The second report, conducted for the Center for Homelessness Impact, exposes a troubling 223% increase in street homelessness among individuals leaving asylum between June and September 2023. This rise suggests a concerning connection between the U.K.’s asylum system and the growing homelessness levels.
It puts forward practical suggestions, including extending the transition period, recognizing the vital role of social housing providers, and ensuring access to advice based on rights. The aim is to enhance support through face-to-face interactions and empower refugee communities for more considerate and effective approaches to resettlement.
“Those people who arrive in the U.K. to seek sanctuary have, over the last few decades, been increasingly finding themselves accommodated in precarious situations, often enduring homelessness,” the researchers explain.
“This is particularly common for those receiving refugee status after a decision on their claim for asylum. These are challenges shared by many people in the U.K. A lack of social housing, low-pay work and a poorly resourced support system maintain common struggles. The lack of familiarity with U.K. systems, difficulty getting into employment and an often fledging grasp of English mean that, for refugees, they find things even harder.”
