Fourteen housing bodies sign letter opposing ‘British homes for British workers policy’

A total of 14 housing bodies across the UK sent a letter to the prime minister and Michael Gove expressing concern about the suggested proposal of a “British homes for British workers” scheme.

The letter highlighted that, according to government data, 90% of new social housing lettings go to UK nationals and that “we all deserve safe housing, regardless of where we are from”.

It added that “at the heart of the issue” was the urgent need for more social housing, which provides a stable and affordable home for people who cannot afford to rent privately or buy their own home.

The Chartered Institute of Housing’s chief executive, Gavin Smart sent the letter. It was co-signed by the National Housing Federation, the Local Government Association, the Association of Retained Council Housing (ARCH), PlaceShapers, Homeless Link, Shelter, Crisis, St Mungo’s, Generation Rent, The No Accommodation Network, the joint council for the welfare of immigrants, the Welsh Refugee Council and Tai Pawb.

>> See also: Housing bodies hit out at government over reported ‘British homes for British workers’ social housing policy

>> See also: NHF calls for social housing development funding overhaul

The letter stated that in 2010, funding for affordable housing in England was cut by 63% including all funding for social rented homes, resulting in an 81% fall in delivery of new social rented housing.

In 2022/23, 9,561 new social homes were delivered in England, compared to nearly 40,000 in 2010.

Representatives from the 14 housing organisations warned that imposing extended qualification periods for people to be able to access the housing register will risk more people becoming homeless. 

The housing professionals added: ”If the government’s main concern is to increase the availability of social lettings, it could achieve this far more effectively by building more social housing.”

The letter said that the spring budget is an opportunity for the government to provide investment to boost the supply of housing and “make a shared ambition to deliver more homes a reality”. 

It added: “We are committed to working with you and the government to tackle the housing crisis, but we need a long-term plan.”