Responding to the Housing and Homelessness Crisis

“There is a growing housing and homelessness crisis in this country. Rough sleeping has risen by 169% over the past decade, whilst the lack of affordable housing has contributed to the hidden homeless population. Today, there are an estimated 320,000 homeless people in Britain. Many more people are badly housed or over-crowded. Recent welfare reforms – such as the benefit cap, spare room subsidy, and the introduction of Universal Credit – have exacerbated the housing crisis and increased the risk of rent arrears.

“Around the country, Methodists and Methodist churches are helping people who are homeless or in housing need, responding to Our Calling to be a good neighbour to people in need and challenge injustice.

“This report results from the call at last year’s Methodist Conference for more action to be taken. It gathers just some examples of current practice, from churches and associated charities.

“What more can the Methodist Church do, working with others, to confront the crisis of housing and homelessness? How can we – together – offer a holistic response?”

Please read the report and respond.

Housing and Homelessness Crisis Report (pdf)

Housing and Homelessness Report – short summary and questions (pdf)