More than 8m Britons living in unsuitable homes
More than 8 million people in England are living in unaffordable, insecure or unstable homes as a result of the housing crisis, according to a report from the National Housing Federation released on Monday.
The report found that around 8.4m people are affected by different aspects of the housing crisis, including high house prices and rents, unsuitable or poor quality homes, and the overall shortage of new homes.
More than 3.6m people are living in overcrowded homes, while 2.5m can’t afford their rent or mortgage. A further 2.5m adults are stuck living with parents, with an ex-partner, or with friends because they can’t afford to move out.
The report also showed how the housing crisis has affected some regions of the UK more than others, with people in the North of England struggling to afford rent while those in the South deal with overcrowding.
Kate Henderson, chief executive of the National Housing Federation, said: "Today’s research reveals the full enormity of the housing crisis - clearly, it is the single biggest domestic issue we face. The Government risks losing votes if it doesn’t take action to tackle the consequences it has for the lives of young and old alike, all across the country.
"This crisis cannot be solved by tweaks around the edges of the housing market. What we need is a return to proper funding for social housing, to the levels last seen under Churchill. Investing in housing is a win-win for the Government - it would bring down the housing benefit bill, provide everyone with a secure and stable start in life, and kick start an economic boom creating thousands of jobs."