How councils can tackle homelessness and bring warmth at Christmas
The UK housing crisis is one of the most pressing challenges facing local councils today. With Christmas approaching, this season of generosity is a stark reminder that thousands of families and individuals remain homeless, without a safe or warm place to call home. As councils work tirelessly to address this issue, innovative strategies such as retrofitting and vacant property refurbishment offer hope for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Understanding the UK housing crisis
Homelessness in the UK is at a critical level. According to Shelter, over 271,000 people in England are homeless, including 123,000 children. This housing emergency is especially poignant during winter when the lack of safe and warm housing leads to severe health and social consequences. Reports from Crisis reveal that addressing homelessness could save £370 million annually by reducing pressures on health and social services.
The housing crisis affects everyone, but children are disproportionately impacted. Research by Shelter (Chance of a Lifetime: The Impact of Bad Housing on Children’s Lives) highlights that children in temporary or substandard housing are more likely to suffer from poor health, educational setbacks, and emotional distress. This has long-term implications for their wellbeing, perpetuating cycles of poverty and instability.
What can local councils do to address homelessness?
Many local councils are taking proactive steps to combat homelessness. One effective strategy is purchasing and refurbishing vacant properties to meet safety and energy efficiency standards. This approach increases housing availability and revives neighbourhoods by utilising properties that would otherwise remain derelict. Councils must balance the immediate need for housing with long-term considerations such as sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
How retrofitting properties helps reduce fuel poverty
Retrofitting homes is a game changer in the fight against fuel poverty and homelessness. Retrofitting makes homes more energy efficient by improving insulation, upgrading heating systems, and integrating renewable energy solutions. This can reduce household energy bills, offering critical relief to low-income families.
For councils, retrofitting properties aligns with both social and environmental goals. Reduced energy consumption means lower carbon emissions, contributing to the UK’s net zero targets. Additionally, energy efficient homes improves tenants’ quality of life.
How LHC frameworks support housing solutions
LHC provide invaluable assistance to local councils addressing homelessness and housing challenges. Through our procurement frameworks, LHC connects councils with trusted suppliers and contractors, simplifying the process of sourcing materials and services for refurbishment and retrofitting projects. LHC also provide added value services to ensure a smoother, quicker project delivery.
The long-term impact of stable housing
The benefits of addressing homelessness go beyond immediate shelter. Children who grow up in stable, energy efficient homes are healthier, perform better in school, and have brighter futures. Families living in warm, secure housing are less likely to experience stress and their overall wellbeing is improved.
By investing in retrofitting and leveraging LHC’s frameworks, councils can make significant progress in tackling homelessness while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable housing system.
What needs to happen next?
- Vacant buildings: Finding derelict buildings to purchase.
- Prioritise retrofitting: Councils should allocate funding to retrofit housing stock, tackling homelessness and fuel poverty simultaneously.
- Utilise procurement frameworks: LHC’s frameworks streamline the refurbishment process and ensure quality results.
- Leverage grants and funding: Funding such as the ECO4 Scheme provide crucial financial support for housing projects.
- Collaborate: Understanding the community is essential for impactful solutions.
A vision for the future
This Christmas, as we gather in the warmth of our homes, let’s remember those still searching for a place to live. By investing in sustainable housing solutions we can work towards ensuring that no one is left out in the cold.
Contact our team to learn more about the upcoming launch of the Retrofit and Decarbonisation (N9) Framework.