Shelter claims housing crisis driving anxiety among working people

Shelter claims workers are suffering sleepless nights over housing costs.

Research by the housing charity claims more than half (53%) of working people in England say the cost of housing has made them feel anxious in the last six months.

The news comes as Shelter and HSBC have renewed their partnership for a further two years to show the realities of the housing crisis.

Negotiating with landlords and preventing eviction

According to the research, one in three (32%) have had to cut back on food and groceries to afford housing costs. A further 16% have had to sell possessions to meet their housing costs.

Shelter’s emergency helpline manager, Nadeem Khan, claims the housing charity provides support for tenants in negotiating with landlords.

Mr Khan said: “This new research shows the impact of the housing emergency on people’s mental health across the country, as millions feel the effects of sleepless nights spent worrying about how to afford essential housing costs.

“Our frontline teams hear from younger people, older people and parents every day who are under immense strain, grappling with impossible trade-offs to make ends meet. It can make a big difference if people reach out before they hit crisis point.

“At Shelter we can help with expert advice on things like managing arrears and creating affordable household budgets, to support on negotiating with landlords, accessing benefits and preventing eviction.

“It is through partnerships like ours with HSBC UK that we can continue to be there for those worst affected by the housing emergency, and help more people find and keep a safe, stable home.”

Fund Shelter’s services

HSBC UK head of sustainability and societal purpose, Natalie Gregoire-Skeete, said: “We recognise that poor financial resilience and housing insecurity often go hand in hand. We are determined to support Shelter’s vital work, ensuring that those most at risk can access practical advice and vital support in moments of crisis.

“Through our renewed partnership, HSBC UK will continue to back Shelter’s community outreach and emergency services, helping people navigate these challenges and find greater stability.”

In a press release, HSBC says it will continue to fund Shelter’s services, including its emergency helpline and webchat, alongside in-person advice hubs across the country.