Laura Sharman 28 October 2020

Rural homelessness doubles in past two years, campaigners warn

Homelessness in rural areas has more than doubled since 2018, new research from campaigners has warned.

Analysis by CPRE, English Rural and the Rural Services Network shows that the number of homeless households in rural local authorities increased by 115% in the past two years.

The campaigners argue that the Government needs to invest in more rural social housing, as rural councils are predicting shortfalls of up to 50% in afforsable house building if planning reforms go ahead.

The research reveals that for every 10 new affordable homes built, the economy will be boosted by £1.4m, supporting 26 jobs and generating £250,000 in government revenue.

Martin Collett, chief executive of English Rural Housing Association, said: ‘This research shows both the economic and social value in directing more government investment towards delivering genuinely affordable rural homes. National housing and planning policy for too long has overlooked the needs of the countryside, focusing on urban solutions to rural problems that simply do not work.

'With rural communities left behind as local people, especially younger households, are priced out of the housing market. The pandemic has reminded us how important it is to have balanced communities, where essential workers both live and work.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Team Leader - Financial Services

Westmorland and Furness Council
£33,366 - £34,314
You will be joining a friendly, welcoming and supportive Finance team. Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Library and Customer Assistant - WMF3038e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£25,183 (pro rata)
Are you looking for a role where you can make a real difference? Penrith, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Lead Compliance Officer - WMF2113e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£55,119 - £57,362
Predominantly a rural county world famous for its stunning scenery Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Assistant Chef

NHS Orkney
Band 3 (£28,011 - £30,230)
As Scotland’s smallest health board, NHS Orkney is driven by a bold vision Orkney and Shetland
Recuriter: NHS Orkney

Standards, Compliance and Development Manager - Children’s residential provisions

Oxfordshire County Council
£57187.00 - £60485.00
This role will lead on Quality Assurance, Standards development, and Regulatory compliance for Oxfordshire’s residential children’s provision, including the unregulated reforms 2022. The post holder will conduct internal inspections within the registe Countywide
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council
Linkedin Banner