Tackling Poverty Through Housing Policy

Housing policy is a crucial tool in addressing poverty and ensuring social equity. In England, the relationship between housing and poverty is particularly complex, with housing costs often being a significant contributor to financial strain for low-income households. This report examines the potential for devolved institutions, local enterprise partnerships (LEPs), combined authorities, and constituent local authorities to mitigate poverty through housing and planning policies at the city-regional level. By exploring the links between housing and poverty, assessing the use of additional funding and powers by devolved institutions, and identifying opportunities for better use of existing and future powers, this report aims to provide insights into effective housing policy implementation.

Housing is a fundamental human need, and access to affordable, safe, and stable housing is essential for reducing poverty. High housing costs can lead to financial strain, forcing households to cut back on other essential expenses such as food, healthcare, and education. In many cases, the lack of affordable housing options can push individuals and families into homelessness, further exacerbating their economic and social vulnerability. Therefore, housing policy plays a vital role in alleviating poverty by ensuring that housing is accessible and affordable to all income levels.

Devolved institutions in England have been granted additional funding and powers, often referred to as ‘freedoms and flexibilities,’ to address local housing needs. These institutions have the potential to use these resources to develop and implement housing policies that directly target poverty reduction. For example, they can invest in affordable housing projects, provide financial assistance to low-income households, and implement planning policies that prioritize the development of affordable housing units. By effectively utilizing these additional powers, devolved institutions can play a significant role in mitigating the experiences of households in poverty.

Local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) and combined authorities also have a crucial role to play in housing policy. These organizations can collaborate with local authorities and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive housing strategies that address both economic development and social equity. For instance, they can work together to identify areas where affordable housing is most needed and prioritize the development of such projects. Additionally, they can leverage their combined resources and expertise to attract private investment in housing projects, ensuring that new developments include a proportion of affordable units.

Despite the potential of devolved institutions, LEPs, and combined authorities to address housing and poverty through their powers, there are still opportunities for better utilization of these resources. One such opportunity is the enhancement of data collection and analysis to better understand local housing needs and the impact of existing policies. By having accurate and up-to-date data, these organizations can make more informed decisions and develop targeted interventions that effectively reduce poverty. Another opportunity is the strengthening of partnerships between public and private sectors to increase the supply of affordable housing. Public-private partnerships can bring together the resources and expertise of both sectors to develop innovative housing solutions that meet the needs of low-income households.

Housing policy is a powerful tool in the fight against poverty, and the effective use of devolved institutions, LEPs, combined authorities, and constituent local authorities can significantly contribute to poverty reduction in England. By understanding the links between housing and poverty, utilizing additional funding and powers, and identifying opportunities for better use of existing resources, these organizations can develop and implement housing policies that improve the lives of those in poverty. These institutions must continue to work together and innovate to ensure that housing remains a priority in their efforts to create more equitable and prosperous communities.