Exactly a year since the government announced it would end no-fault evictions and reform the private rented sector, the Nationwide Foundation has joined other organisations to form the new Renters’ Reform Coalition. The coalition is formed of organisations who all campaign for improvements to the private rented sector in England.
Made up of national housing charities, campaigners, renters unions, advice centres and thinktanks, the Renters’ Reform Coalition is calling on the government to use the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill to end ‘no fault’ evictions, improve the condition of privately rented homes and create a system where renters feel empowered to stand up for their rights.
Central to the coalition is the simple belief that everyone needs a safe, affordable and secure home, where they can live and flourish. For too long, and for too many private renters, this has been out of reach.
The formation of the Renters’ Reform Coalition is especially timely, as the Covid-19 pandemic marches on and thousands of private rented households are at risk of debt and eviction. Research shows that 350,000 households have had their landlord discuss eviction with them already, ahead of a lifting of eviction restrictions due on January 11th.
Bridget Young, Programme Manager at the Nationwide Foundation, said:
“The Government has pledged to end section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, and one year ago we welcomed its plans to reform private renting in the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill. This bill is an opportunity to redesign our housing system, creating a fairer balance between renters and landlords. Implemented correctly, these reforms are also a chance to improve the safety, security and condition of privately rented homes.
“We are looking forward to working with the Government and other partners, to take this opportunity to deliver a more just housing system. The Coalition is a broad group but we are united in our belief that everyone needs a safe, affordable and secure home, where they can live and flourish.”
For further information about the Renters’ Reform Coalition, visit its homepage here.
Further information about the Nationwide Foundation’s funding of the Renters’ Reform Coalition.