A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Affordable housing – Affordable housing refers to homes available for sale or rent that cater to people whose needs aren’t met by the private market. These homes are a crucial part of the government’s efforts to address the housing crisis, combat homelessness, and help aspiring homeowners step onto the housing ladder.
There are two main types:
Affordable Housing for Rent: These homes are rented out at least 20% below local market rents (affordable rental properties) or at rates set between market rents and social rents (intermediate rental properties).
Social Rent: These homes are for people with low incomes and are set at around 50% of market rents.
Affordable housing can also include specialized housing for vulnerable, older, or disabled individuals (known as “supported housing”).
At risk of homelessness – People at risk of homelessness face circumstances that could lead to losing their home.
B
Built environment – The built environment encompasses all human-made structures, including buildings, roads, parks, and infrastructure.
C
Commercial real estate – Commercial real estate refers to properties used for business purposes, such as offices, shops, or industrial spaces.
Commissioned supported housing – Commissioned supported housing refers to arrangements where public bodies (such as local councils) arrange accommodation for vulnerable individuals. The accommodation is provided by housing associations, charities, or voluntary organizations, with a focus on care, support, or supervision.
D
Developer – A developer is an individual or company involved in constructing or renovating properties.
E
Emergency accommodation – Emergency accommodation is short-term housing provided when someone is homeless or at risk of homelessness. It includes options like bed and breakfasts, hotels, or hostels. The goal is to offer immediate shelter while assessing the person’s situation and determining longer-term solutions.
Employability – Employability refers to the skills and abilities that make individuals attractive to employers. It includes qualities like adaptability, communication, problem-solving, and relevant expertise. In the context of job-seeking, employability is crucial for securing and maintaining employment.
F
Foyer model – The foyer model provides accommodation and support for young people (usually aged 16-25) who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. It combines housing with education, training, and employment opportunities to help young people transition to independent living.
G
GLA (Greater London Authority) – The GLA oversees London’s strategic planning, housing, transport, and development. It plays a key role in shaping housing policies and initiatives across the city.
H
Hidden homeless – Hidden homeless individuals don’t have a permanent home but may stay with friends, family, or in temporary accommodation.
Homelessness – Homelessness occurs when individuals lack a stable, permanent place to live. It can result from various factors, including economic hardship, family breakdowns, or health issues.
Hostel – A hostel is temporary accommodation, often used by homeless individuals or travellers. It provides basic facilities like beds, showers, and communal areas.
Housing Act – The Housing Act is legislation that governs various aspects of housing in the UK. It covers issues like social housing, homelessness, and housing standards.
Housing First – Housing First is an approach that prioritises providing stable housing to homeless individuals without preconditions. It aims to address underlying issues (such as mental health or substance abuse) after securing housing.
L
Local authority housing – Local authority housing, also called council housing, refers to homes owned and managed by local councils. These homes are often rented out to residents who need affordable housing options.
London living rent – London living rent is a type of affordable housing aimed at middle-income households. Rents are set at one-third of average local household incomes, making it more affordable than market rents.
London rent tenure – London rent tenure refers to the various types of housing arrangements available in London. These include social rent, affordable rent, shared ownership, and other schemes designed to meet different income levels and needs.
M
Move-on accommodation – Move-on accommodation serves as a stepping stone between homelessness and stability. It provides a place to live, along with any necessary support. Individuals in move-on accommodation typically live in their own furnished flats, helping them transition toward independence and stability.
P
Planning application – A planning application is a formal request submitted to local authorities for permission to develop or change land or buildings.
R
Rent – Rent is the payment made by tenants to landlords for the use of a property. It allows individuals to live in a home without owning it outright.
Rent deposit scheme – A rent deposit scheme is a program that helps tenants secure housing by providing an alternative means of security. It assists individuals who cannot afford a large deposit or provide a guarantor for a tenancy agreement.
Renters’ Reform Bill – The Renters’ Reform Bill aims to enhance tenants’ rights and improve the private rented sector. It addresses issues like security of tenure, rent increases, and property conditions.
Residential – Residential properties are homes where people live, as opposed to commercial or industrial spaces.
Rough sleeping – Rough sleeping is one of the most visible forms of homelessness. It includes sleeping outdoors or in places not designed for habitation, such as cars, doorways, and abandoned buildings. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) defines rough sleeping as people sleeping or bedded down in the open air or in places not meant for habitation.
S
Section 106 – Section 106 agreements are legal obligations imposed on developers by local authorities. Developers must provide community benefits (such as affordable housing) in exchange for planning permission.
Selective Licensing – Selective Licensing is a scheme implemented by local authorities to regulate private rented properties. Landlords must obtain a license to ensure their properties meet certain standards.
Single Family Rental (SFA) – Single Family Rental refers to individual homes rented out by investors or companies. It provides an alternative to traditional homeownership or multifamily rental properties.
Social housing – Social housing specifically refers to social rent homes. These homes have rents linked to local incomes, making them truly affordable and secure. Social rent homes historically cost around 50% of the market rate. Housing associations or local councils provide social housing, ensuring tenants have a stable and affordable place to call home.
Social impact – Social impact measures the tangible effects of actions or programs on people’s lives, well-being, and overall welfare.
Social value – Social value refers to the positive impact a project or initiative has on the community, environment, or society.
Sofa surfing – – Sofa surfing involves staying temporarily with friends or acquaintances, often due to homelessness.
Statutory homelessness – Statutory homelessness refers to situations where local authorities have a legal duty to provide housing assistance.
Supported housing – Supported housing provides invaluable housing and support for disabled people, homeless individuals, those with mental health challenges, survivors of domestic abuse, and many others. In supported housing, accommodation is provided alongside support, supervision, or care, enabling residents to live as independently as possible within the community.
T
Tenancy sustainment – Tenancy sustainment work aims to prevent tenancies from breaking down or failing. It involves providing necessary information, advice, and support to tenants to help them maintain their tenancies. Landlords focus on tenancy sustainment not only to ensure rent collection but also to empower tenants to thrive in their homes.
Tenant – A tenant is someone who pays rent to live in a room, house, or other property. They rent from either a private landlord, housing association or the local council, which acts as the landlord.
Y
Young people – We define young people as anyone aged 18-24. Young people in this age group face unique challenges related to housing, employment, and education. They may experience housing instability, couch surfing, or living in temporary accommodation.