The New Statesman | UK politics and culture
How to fix Britain's social housing crisis
Jul 29, 2024
Kwajo Tweneboa, a passionate social housing campaigner and author, teams up with Harry Clarke-Ezzi, a savvy policy correspondent. They delve deep into Britain's pressing social housing crisis, revealing shocking statistics and heart-wrenching personal stories. The duo discusses the intersection of race and class, emphasizing marginalized communities' struggles. They advocate for urgent reforms, critiquing political failures and highlighting the need for effective representation in policy-making. It's a compelling call for safe, affordable housing as a fundamental human right.
31:58
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Quick takeaways
- The severe lack of social housing in Britain is compounded by outdated policies like the Right to Buy, which diminish affordable stock.
- Social housing conditions are critical for societal wellbeing, with poor living environments impacting health, education, and homelessness rates significantly.
Deep dives
The Urgent Housing Crisis
A significant housing crisis persists in England, with approximately 1.3 million people on social housing waiting lists and inadequate conditions for many existing residents. The case of Awab Ishak highlighted the severe impact of poor living conditions, leading to Awab's Law, which mandates landlords to rectify health hazards in social housing. Activists argue that housing problems are intertwined with broader social issues, including education and healthcare, making the resolution of these housing challenges imperative for societal improvement. The prevalence of homelessness, particularly among children, underscores the critical need for immediate action to improve living conditions.
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