Policy

Most people in Wales live in suitable homes. However, there are many people in Wales who do not have a home, or one which is so poor or insecure that it can hardly be called a home.

• Every year, thousands of people approach local authorities in Wales to make homeless applications. Thousands more access services but are not recorded in published statistics
• It is estimated that there are 57,700 occupied unfit homes in Wales and around 36,000 children live in unfit housing in Wales
• Thousands of people live in poor short term lets in the private rented sector
• Thousands of households face eviction each year from social, private rented and owner-occupied accommodation

Homelessness is inextricably linked to other socio-economic factors, including low wages, short term contracts and insecurity, a high level of part time jobs, unemployment, a poor and ageing housing stock and poor health.

It impacts on many aspects of people's lives, including health, education and increased levels of re-offending and Shelter Cymru campaigns to promote effective, long term and coherent preventative housing and homelessness strategies.

The effects on children are particularly significant. Thousands of children wake up every morning in bad housing. Housing is a basic part of every child's development and is something most of us take for granted. A home is somewhere safe, suitable, affordable, secure and healthy and, if necessary, somewhere with the right support and help for people who may be vulnerable. Children need a home to feel safe, keep warm and stay healthy. Bad housing wrecks their lives, makes them sick, unhappy and under-achieve at school.

Through its research, policy work and campaigning, Shelter Cymru influences the Welsh agenda on housing and homelessness in terms of both the policy and legislative approach and in developing radical solutions to homelessness and housing problems in Wales.

For further information on the policy work of Shelter Cymru call us on 01792 469400 or use our contact form.