News

A couple of weeks after new figures revealed that over 4,500 classrooms worth of children were stuck in temporary accommodation, street artist Banksy used his spraycation in the East of England, to depict the very real and unhinged housing crisis.

More than eight million people in England (around 1 in 7) are affected by the housing crisis. And over a million people are waiting for a social housing home due to the lower cost, which is typically 40-50% cheaper than private rent. But it’s not only about having a home. It’s about overcrowding, unaffordability, living with someone because you can’t afford to leave, unsuitable or poor-quality homes, and the risk of becoming homeless.

Banksy’s artwork, which mysteriously appeared on Cromer beach in Norfolk, showed a group of hermit crabs being turned away from a shell with the sign ‘Luxury Rentals Only’. The artwork provoked conversation about second homes in holiday destinations such as North Norfolk. There are roughly twice as many second homes in the UK as there are people experiencing homelessness. And Norfolk alone has over 13,000 second homes, which has made it almost impossible for local people to get onto the property ladder.

Rural and coastal homes are also more likely to experience fuel poverty. To afford the basic essentials, many social housing tenants are being forced to choose between keeping their home warm and keeping their energy bills manageable.

Above average and inconsistent property prices, too few homes for local needs, ageing housing stock and homelessness are all tough challenges to crack. That’s why it’s important for housing associations, like us, to continue to work to tackle these issues.

Flagship is committed to providing more affordable homes and maintaining its existing ones. This year, the Group will build around 800 new affordable homes across the East. And Hopestead, the Group’s charity, will work with other organisations to end homelessness – ensuring everyone has a place to call home.