Today (Thursday 13 June), the Labour Party launched its manifesto for the 2024 general election. It includes a central pledge to introduce a cross-government strategy to end homelessness, working with Mayors and councils across the country, and deliver the biggest increase in affordable and social housing in a generation. The manifesto states Labour will prioritise the building of new social rented homes and protect existing stock including by reviewing Right to Buy discounts.

​The manifesto also proposes a ‘fair deal’ for renters, which includes an end to no-fault evictions, empower tenants to tackle unreasonable rent increases, and tackling quality by extending ‘Awaab’s Law’ to the private rented sector.  

Responding to the manifesto Matt Downie, Crisis Chief Executive said: “It is hugely welcoming to see the Labour Party recognising the desperate need for a cross-government strategy to end homelessness. The situation across Britain is stark. Homelessness is rising and with it comes damaging consequences that can last for generations.

“This level of aspiration to rebuild our depleted housing stock, with a priority on social housing, and bring down homelessness by drawing on the expertise of local communities is a game changer in our mission to tackle one of the greatest injustices of our time. Anxious renters will also be relieved to see a pledge to end ‘no-fault’ evictions. This will bring hope for thousands of people stuck in limbo facing the prospect of being without a safe, secure home.  

“We have said time and time again that homelessness is not inevitable. With the right commitment and political will, we can truly build a future free from homelessness.”

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