The Social Workers Union (SWU) has submitted powerful evidence to MPs exposing how unsafe housing is having a majorly negative impact on families, as part of Parliament’s inquiry into the condition of homes in England.
Drawing on previously published research carried out in partnership with ITV News, the submission to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee sets out how poor housing – including damp, mould, infestations and chronic disrepair – is placing children and vulnerable people at risk, especially when combined with unaffordable energy bills.
Over one in five children’s social workers surveyed (21%) said they had worked on cases in the past three years where unsafe or inappropriate housing was a key factor in children being removed from their families.
SWU General Secretary John McGowan said, “No child should be removed from their family because their home is cold, damp or dangerous to live in. But that is the reality social workers are facing. The housing crisis is now a frontline child protection issue.”
The evidence also shows that:
- 78% of social workers strongly agree that housing conditions are a major concern for the people they support.
- 36% have seen an increase in people living in unsafe or inappropriate homes over the past three years.
Social workers provided harrowing testimonies of families caught in cycles of poverty, poor housing and deteriorating mental health, faced with service cuts, waiting lists, and nowhere to turn for practical support.
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition also cited the same research in its submission to the inquiry.
Simon Francis, Coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, said:
“Cold, damp homes are not just uncomfortable, they’re dangerous. Children are being taken into care because of unfit housing. People are ending up in hospitals. In some tragic cases, people are dying.
“This is a public health emergency. We need urgent action to strengthen housing standards, fund local enforcement, and ensure that no home is unfit to live in.”
John McGowan added:
“Social workers are going above and beyond to protect people, but they cannot do it alone. The government must listen and act. Every home should be safe, warm and fit to live in.”
The Committee’s inquiry is examining the general condition of homes in England and the prevalence of housing hazards such as damp and mould. SWU has offered to give further oral evidence as the inquiry continues.”