Renters’ Reform Coalition (Generation Rent)

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Why we are funding this project

Wherever we live, we all need a decent, safe and affordable home to be able to thrive. But that is not the reality for many of the 4.6 million people in the private rented sector (PRS) in England. Sadly, data shows that 29% of renters find it difficult to pay their rent and one in five of privately rented homes in the UK falls short of basic safety and decency standards.

This isn’t right. But we firmly believe that by working together with stakeholders across the PRS, with one unified voice, we can influence key legislation and deliver fundamental reform.

That’s why in 2020, the Nationwide Foundation began funding the Renters’ Reform Coalition (RRC).

In 2024, after four years of being the sole funder, we began joint funding the project with Lloyds Bank Foundation.  

Strategic purpose

• The private rented sector provides homes for people in need which are more affordable, secure, accessible and better quality.
• Tenants will have a stronger voice in debates on the private rented sector and housing.

Project description

The RRC is made up of 21 leading organisations which represent and advocate for private renters, with an aim of positively influencing private rental reform. It was set up shortly after the government announced its intention to deliver private rental reform and is hosted by campaign group Generation Rent.

The RRC’s core focus has been to achieve reform of the laws and regulations which govern private renting, and as a result, improve the rights and protections given to private renters in England. This links directly to the Nationwide Foundation’s long-term aim to strengthen the voice of renters and improve their protections from poverty and harm.

We know that only a unified movement can deliver private renting reform, and so throughout its life, the RRC has focused on strengthening relationships and collaboration between the renters’ movement, to build a strong and unified coalition. By working together towards a shared goal, the coalition has bridged the gap between organisations with different perspectives; with all members recognising that we are better united.

We also know that to drive change, people need to grasp the scale and impact of the issues within the private rented sector. The coalition has run several creative and successful campaigns reflecting the human impact of insecure, poor-quality, and unaffordable housing, and made its voice heard across the PRS debate, particularly in the media. As a result, public and media attention to private renting is now higher than it has ever been.

For more information, there is a dedicated homepage for the Renters’ Reform Coalition, where regular updates will be posted.

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