New partnership wants to know why private landlords won’t rent to councils

A groundbreaking partnership has been launched to harness the potential of the private rented sector (PRS) to combat the homelessness crisis in the UK.

The collaboration between Crisis and TDS Group will focus on developing strategies to encourage PRS landlords to rent homes to those who are homeless.

Private landlords are seen as a potential solution to homelessness but 97% of councils say they struggle to get landlords to take on homeless people and families.

Official figures reveal a surge in homelessness across England and between January and March, a record 86,520 households sought homelessness assistance and were deemed eligible for support.

Also, the number of households living in temporary accommodation has risen by 12% compared to last year, with 17,750 individuals living in bed and breakfast settings seeing a 30% rise.

‘End homelessness for good’

Dr Jennifer Harris, the head of policy and research at TDS Group, said: “The government has rightly committed to developing a cross-government strategy to end homelessness for good.

“For all the challenges it faces, the private rented sector can play an important and positive role in helping to achieve this mission.”

She adds: “Working with Crisis, landlords and those who face homelessness we will build the evidence needed to demonstrate how best to improve access to stable, secure and decent rented housing for those most in need.”

Solution to the housing shortage

The PRS is seen as a potential solution to the housing shortage, with councils empowered to offer private accommodation to homeless applicants.

Recent research conducted by the TDS Charitable Foundation highlights the reluctance of private landlords to accommodate tenants housed via local authorities, with 46% expressing reservations.

The partnership between Crisis and TDS Group will involve several key initiatives:

• Dedicated support: Specialist staff at six Crisis Skylight centres across the country will receive funding from TDS Group to collaborate with landlords and individuals facing homelessness, facilitating access to rental housing and promoting tenancy sustainability
• Financial assistance: Individuals experiencing homelessness will receive support to cover the costs associated with establishing a home in the PRS. This includes funding for deposits, furniture and travel expenses for property viewings
• Policy development: Research and evidence gathering will inform policymakers on the most effective strategies to support individuals at risk of homelessness in accessing the private rented sector.

‘Private rented sector is almost inaccessible’

The executive director of policy and social change at Crisis, Francesca Albanese, said: “High deposits and up-front rent payments, mean the private rented sector is almost inaccessible for people facing homelessness.

“Plus, unaffordable rents, a lack of social housing and high living costs are making it increasingly challenging for many low-income households to find and keep a stable home.”

She added: “Securing new ways to access private rental properties for our members is invaluable and why we’re so pleased to be partnering with the TDS Group to begin this unique initiative.

“We look forward to working with them to open more doors into secure rental properties and ultimately, helping more people out of homelessness for good.”