WBG Submission to DLUHC: Reforming Social Housing Allocations

WBG signed this joint statement as part of the End Violence Against Women Coalition in response to a public consultation on reforming social housing allocations.

Overview:

This joint statement expresses profound concern regarding proposed changes to social housing allocations in response to a chronic lack of suitable social housing. These changes, known as ‘British homes for British people,’ create further barriers and discrimination, particularly impacting survivors of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls (VAWG). These proposals would exacerbate existing challenges faced by local councils grappling with financial difficulties and increased demand for social housing, disproportionately affecting marginalised groups, including migrant survivors of VAWG. Furthermore, proposed measures are inadequate at addressing the housing needs of survivors. It is unfortunate that the Government is prioritising divisive policies over urgent reforms.

Key Recommendations:

• Prioritise building more social housing to address the chronic lack of suitable housing.
• Deliver reforms that cater to the needs of women and children experiencing VAWG, including exempting them from restrictive local connection requirements.
• Publish the government’s response to consultations on local connection restrictions and joint tenancy reform.
• Empower survivors with the ability to decide what is best for them regarding housing options.
• Ensure equal access to life-saving domestic abuse support and safe accommodation for all survivors, including those with no recourse to public funds.
• Refrain from implementing harmful changes to social housing allocations and instead focus on addressing the underlying issues contributing to the housing crisis.