A new partnership has been launched between the TDS Group and Crisis, the UK’s most prominent homelessness charity, with the aim of supporting the private rented sector to become a viable route out of homelessness for many people in housing need.
The partnership was informed by research from the TDS Charitable Foundation, which has highlighted that many people are finding it increasingly difficult to access the private rented sector. The Voice of the Tenant survey from March 2024, for example, revealed that 71% of tenants experienced challenges when searching for a new rental property, with finding an affordable home being the most reported challenge. Paying a deposit, rent in advance or securing a UK guarantor was also found to be problematic for many tenants.
Indeed, the TDS Charitable Foundation's research confirmed that affordability can be a major issue throughout a private tenancy. According to the Voice of the Tenant survey, 35% of private renters found it difficult or very difficult to afford the rent in the previous month, and 55% are regularly making cutbacks on household essentials to pay their rent.
The research also revealed that vulnerable tenants are more likely to face significant challenges in the sector related to access and affordability. In an effort to make the private rented sector work better for some of the most vulnerable people in our society – people experiencing homelessness – the TDS Group has joined with Crisis, who are a leader in this type of work.
The private rented sector and homelessness
The private rented sector already plays a role in addressing homeless in the UK; amidst a shortage of homes for social rent The 2011 Localism Act gave councils the power to discharge their housing duty to homeless applicants by offering private rented accommodation. However, according to last year’s annual homelessness monitor, published by Crisis, 97% of councils said that it had become more difficult to source private rentals for households experiencing or at risk of homelessness over the previous year.
Other research by the TDS Charitable Foundation, however, has highlighted the potential of the private rented sector to help address the current homelessness crisis in the UK, if barriers related to access and affordability are addressed.
The project
To address these barriers, a three-year project has been developed by Crisis and the TDS Group, which will involve:
TDS Group funding specialist staff at six Crisis Skylight centres nationwide to collaborate with landlords and individuals facing homelessness, aiming to enhance access to rental housing and ensure tenancy sustainability.
Assisting people experiencing homelessness with the costs of establishing a home in the private rented sector. This includes TDS providing funds for deposits, purchasing new furniture, and covering travel expenses for property viewings, if necessary.
Conducting research and generating evidence to guide policymakers on the most effective ways to support those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in accessing the private rented sector.
The TDS Group and Crisis will be regularly sharing updates about the progress of the project and key learning that has emerged from this endeavour.
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