housing: can we fix it? (YES!)
KRAN Manifesto - Housing
By Obaida, Youth Ambassador
Young refugees and asylum seekers face many challenges and issues when it comes to housing:
structural racism and oppression
racism and stigma
misinformation
housing crisis in the UK
local authority changes.
Solutions:
treat everyone equally
build and provide more houses and not rely on private companies
ensure everyone understands the policies (to avoid misinformation)
provide support and help for everyone until they are settled.
What we do at KRAN to stop these issues from happening:
extended support for care leavers
lobby for policy revisions to extend support for care leavers beyond age 19 (ideally up to 25), to provide a more gradual transition to independence
expand housing benefit programmes to cover more of the rent costs for young people and those in precarious situations
ensure these hubs are accessible and inclusive, offering services tailored to the specific needs of care leavers and former UASC
work with local government, non-profits, businesses and community groups to create a coordinated response to the housing and employment challenges faced by young people. For example, advocating for the construction of more affordable housing units (including social housing) to meet the demand
developing clear, accessible information that explains housing allocation policies and eligibility criteria for council properties
work with local authorities to provide workshops and information sessions for young people
provide training for landlords on diversity and inclusion to foster a more accepting rental market, and advocating for policy changes that promote equitable housing practices, such as stronger anti-discrimination laws and enforcement mechanisms
develop targeted support programmes that provide assistance with housing searches, including legal aid to challenge discriminatory practices.