Housing for health: A new approach

The relationship between health and housing is critical. The quality of housing profoundly impacts physical and mental wellbeing, and housing inequalities are a major driver of the UK’s worsening health outcomes. In recent years, life expectancy has stalled, and in some cases reversed, particularly in deprived communities. The statistics are stark: there is a 16-year gap in life expectancy between different neighbourhoods, with people in deprived areas experiencing significantly poorer health outcomes. These inequalities affect both older and working-age individuals, who increasingly live with long-term conditions that impact their productivity and prosperity. 

The Health Foundation has long highlighted the link between housing and health, identifying three key factors: housing quality, security, and affordability. Housing quality is a pressing concern: 3.5 million households in England live in non-decent homes that are damp, cold, or dilapidated. Low-income households are disproportionately affected, being twice as likely to live in such conditions. Housing security is equally important. Children who experience multiple moves due to insecure housing report poorer health outcomes, and insecurity continues to affect adult health. Evidence shows that people in private rented accommodation age faster, with biomarkers of stress highlighting the tangible impact on health. 

Affordability is a third critical factor. Struggling to pay rent directly affects health outcomes, as families may cut back on heating or healthy food. Among Clarion residents, nearly a third with high rent arrears have used a foodbank, compared to only five per cent of those without arrears. Residents with high arrears are nearly five times more likely to go without food. The gap between Local Housing Allowance and actual rents is a major concern: only three per cent of homes are affordable for those on lower incomes. 

Addressing these issues requires both immediate and long-term solutions. Policy proposals include extending the Decent Homes Standard into the private rented sector, limiting rent inflation, and linking Local Housing Allowance to actual costs. More radical measures are also needed, such as committing to building at least 90,000 new social rent homes per year. Exploring the concept of a ‘right to housing’ could further elevate housing and health inequalities as a national mission, aligning civil society and government around shared goals. 

For housing associations like Clarion, there is a critical role to play. With more than 125,000 properties and 360,000 residents, Clarion can lead the way in addressing housing-related health inequalities. By setting ambitious targets and developing a comprehensive strategy, the organisation can tackle housing quality, security, and affordability while improving health outcomes. Success will require collaboration with residents, communities, and stakeholders, alongside creative approaches to solving complex problems. 

Ultimately, the connection between housing and health is complex but actionable. By prioritising safe, secure, and affordable homes, policymakers and housing providers can reduce inequalities and create healthier communities. Clarion has the scale, reach, and influence to demonstrate what is possible, leading by example and driving meaningful change for residents across the UK.