Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing
Federation, said:
“This is a transformational package for social housing and will
deliver the right conditions for a decade of renewal and growth.
After years of fiercely advocating for the long-term vision and
conditions needed to kickstart a generational boost in affordable
housing, we are proud to have worked so closely our members and
ministers to secure such a positive result for the millions of
people impacted by the housing crisis and in need of a social
home.
“It is the most ambitious Affordable Homes Programme we've seen
in decades, and alongside the long-term certainty on rents, will
kickstart a generational boost in the delivery of new social
homes. We also welcome the consultation on the introduction of
rent convergence - a mechanism that ensures social rents are
equalised over time – as historic differences in rent levels
severely impact the sector's financial capacity and ability to
build homes.
“Housing associations' top priority is the safety and quality of
residents' homes. So we welcome the news on equal access to
funding for building safety, the huge costs of which are
impacting the development of new affordable homes, especially in
London. It's also hugely positive to see confirmation of the
£13.2bn Warm Homes Plan which in essential to supporting social
landlords to tackle fuel poverty and meet net zero.
“Supported housing remains in financial crisis due to years of
cuts, and we will continue to call for urgent funding to prevent
further vital services from closing, which in turn increases
pressure on the NHS.
“This package demonstrates the government understands the
foundational difference a secure and affordable home makes to
people's lives. Housing associations look forward to working in
partnership with the government and with the Deputy Prime
Minister, who has tirelessly championed social housing.”
