JV North is backing Inside Housing’s campaign calling for all political parties to insert a commitment to build substantial numbers of social rent homes into their manifestos at the next general election.
Named Build Social, the campaign calls for political parties in England to pledge to build 90,000 social rented homes a year over the next decade or 900,000 in total.
Chair of JV North, John Bowker, said: “We are backing Inside Housing’s campaign and what better way of demonstrating to the public that all political parties see it as a key step in fixing the housing crisis than by them agreeing to support it too.
“Cross-party support and commitment to build 90,000 social rented homes a year for a decade is vital because the size of the problem can’t be solved in one or two Parliamentary terms.
“After pledging to this long-term collective plan it should be reflected as key policy and funding elements of the next Affordable Homes Programme so the sector can achieve the target.
“The importance of building more social rented homes can’t be underestimated. In a cost of living crisis homeownership is unrealistic and out of reach for so many, while huge numbers can’t afford their rent.”
Inside Housing Editor, Martin Hilditch, said: “The reason that action is needed to deliver more safe and secure housing for people on low incomes is clear. The current system is delivering outcomes that few people would find acceptable.
“We agree with the National Housing Federation and others that there is a need for a long-term national plan in England for meeting housing need.
“But we also say there is a consensus that more homes for social rent must be part of that picture.
“That’s why our campaign, Build Social, has some specific asks for political parties of all persuasions.”
Click here for more details about Build Social and to pledge your support: Inside Housing – Insight – Inside Housing calls for the next government to Build Social