The UK is currently facing a housing emergency. According to Unison, the need for housing is such that over 350,000 new homes need to be built year-on-year, of which 150,000 must be good-quality social housing. When the Government reinvigorated the Right To Buy (RTB) Policy in 2012, it promised to replace houses on a one-for-one basis, however, that target has repeatedly fallen short, with data showing a shortfall of nearly 10,000 homes in the final quarter of 2020/21.

As part of the Government’s Levelling-Up Initiative, the New Homes Bonus will allocate £556 million to English councils in 2022/23 to build new homes across England. Along-side the Government’s Renters' Reform Bill and the charter for social housing residents, the aim to provide good quality social-housing for all those who need it. 

However, the challenges facing the sector are many, with materials and labour imports in the construction industry being severely impacted by Brexit, delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and a slowing economy all impacting the built environment sector. Additionally, the need for increased accessibility in housing, retrofitting and compliance with new health and safety regulations such as improved cladding and sprinkler systems, and meeting net zero targets all adding to the complexity of replenishing housing stocks.

This event will seek to explore the many challenges facing the sector, examining the years of bias around renting practices, steep incline in housing costs in comparison to stagnating wages, and lack of consistency in leadership with an ever-rotating selection of housing ministers. It will consider the need for quality housing, and better regulation around quality of social housing.

We have a limited number of sponsored speaking and branding opportunities available. Complete the sponsorship enquiry form or email [email protected] for more information.

Unable to make the date? All sessions will be recorded and available to watch on demand for 30 days after the event date.