Young residents are not just the future of social housing, they’re an integral part of the present

The housing crisis in the UK has been a well-known topic for years now, but amidst the statistics and debates, one group often remains invisible: young residents. When was the last time you heard a policy discussion about the struggles of young residents? The “Shaping Housing Futures” report, launched in January 2025, explores how young residents can be involved in decision-making and influence strategies within the housing sector. This blog will focus on the engagement aspect of that report.

As someone who has navigated the challenges of being a young person living on an estate, I can tell you: we're here, and we’re not just waiting to grow up and move out. We’re part of the community now, but most of the time, it feels like no one’s asking for our input.

I’ve witnessed firsthand how this demographic is frequently overlooked in discussions about policy and planning. Young people are not just future tenants, they are current stakeholders in their communities. The residents in partnership project explores how this group can be better included and represented in the sector.

In this blog, I want to shed light on some of the issues young residents are facing, discuss the importance of including young voices in housing policy, and highlight initiatives like youth boards that can help bridge the gap between decision-makers and those directly affected by their choices. As you read this, I want you to keep the following questions in mind: Who are the young people in your communities, and how are they involved in housing discussions? What do they know about housing, and how can you help increase their understanding?

The issues facing young residents

From soaring rental prices to a lack of suitable housing options, young people are caught in a bind. Young residents are facing challenges that can feel overwhelming. Many of us are forced to navigate a cycle of temporary living arrangements, moving from one rental property to another, with no sense of permanence.

This lack of stability can have long-term consequences on mental health, job prospects, and overall well-being and increase financial pressure. Unstable or low-paying jobs make it even harder to secure a home in an increasingly expensive market. But here’s the kicker: housing policies are still focused on homeownership and getting older generations into homeownership, while young renters like us are left scrambling for anything that resembles a permanent place to live.

To ensure that young people are effectively engaged in housing discussions, we must first prioritize education and awareness. Many young people simply do not have the knowledge or understanding of the housing market, policy-making processes, or how to advocate for themselves and their families within the system.

How can housing associations, local councils and community groups play a key role in increasing awareness?

Engaging young people in housing policy requires a collective effort. It’s not just about creating spaces for them to speak; it’s about listening to them, valuing their perspectives, and acting on their feedback. Here are a few steps we can take to increase youth involvement in housing:

• Young people should be provided with accessible resources, workshops, and training on housing issues. They can help demystify the housing system and teach young residents about their rights and the opportunities available to them.
• Support the creation of youth boards within local councils and housing associations to give young people a platform to voice their concerns and ideas.
• Invest in education and training that helps young people understand housing issues and how to advocate for themselves in policy discussions.
• Foster youth-led initiatives in housing development and urban planning, allowing young residents to influence how their communities are designed and managed.
• Create mentorship opportunities where young people can work alongside policymakers, housing professionals, and community leaders to learn the ins and outs of housing systems.
• Promote policies that prioritize affordability, stability, and security for young people, recognizing their unique housing needs and challenges.

Conclusion

The housing crisis in the UK will not be solved until young people are included in the conversation. It is time for decision-makers to acknowledge that young people are not just the future—they are an integral part of the present. By empowering them to have a voice in housing policy, we can create solutions that benefit everyone, not just the privileged few.

The next time you think about housing issues in your community, ask yourself: Who are the young people here, and how are they engaged in these discussions? It’s time for young voices to be heard and for their concerns to be taken seriously. They are the ones who will inherit the results of today’s housing policies, and it’s crucial they have a say in shaping their futures.