Severely overcrowded housing has always been one of the main problems our members face. Overcrowding is particularly bad in the private rented sector where high rents and low housing benefit rates mean that families are forced to rent small flats, studios or even single rooms. Lockdown has made this serious situation even worse as families are forced to stay in cramped conditions 24/7.
The government was warned by academics and the homeless charity Shelter that urgent action and support were needed for overcrowded families to stop the virus spreading, but the government ignored these plans preferring to allow the virus to spread within families and households living in overcrowded housing. This is neglectful and unforgivable.
We’ve been supporting our members and campaigning on overcrowding for years –
Helping people get the correct priority on housing waiting list and challenging bad decisions by the council that families deliberately caused their overcrowding
Helping with homeless applications
and importantly calling for the 3, 4, 5 bedroom safe, secure and good quality council homes we need!
This demand is more important than ever. No one should have to spend a moment longer in overcrowded housing!
Housing Action Southwark & Lambeth 