Social housing residents face stigma and discrimination

Nearly half of social housing residents in London say they have faced prejudice or discrimination because of where they live.

According to research by G15, a group of London's leading housing associations, 45% of residents believe they’re stigmatised because of their housing status.

Meanwhile, more than one in three (35%) say they’re made to feel embarrassed by their living arrangements.

This feeling of stigma is particularly strong when residents are dealing with service providers, including:

• landlords - 43%
• customer service agents, such as banks and mobile phone companies - 24%
• authorities, such as the police - 24%

Many social housing residents in the capital also feel that this stigma negatively affects other areas of their life, including:

• employment and career opportunities - 18%
• dating and relationships - 14%

Media fuels negative perceptions

Many residents believe this stigma exists largely because social housing and the people who live there are often portrayed negatively in the media.

For example, some people polled by G15 raised concerns with sensationalist reporting and programmes such as “Benefits Street”, as they presented an image of residents as being criminals, unemployed, and relying on welfare.

Politicians were also criticised, partly for the type of language they use when talking about social housing and residents, as well as policies that promoted home ownership as the most desirable tenure.

In addition, many people were unhappy with negative stereotypes being perpetuated on social media.

Negative stereotypes must be challenged

G15 pointed out that following the Grenfell tragedy in 2017, there was a “national conversation” about how social housing residents are treated and perceived.

However, the group said “meaningful action” to address this stigma in subsequent years has been “limited”.

This, it stated, has left many feeling “overlooked and undervalued by policymakers”.

Daisy Armstrong, chair of the G15 Residents’ Group, said: “Social housing is a lifeline for so many people, but stigma continues to hold us back. 

“It’s time we focused on the reality: we are proud of our homes, proud of our communities, and proud of the contributions we make to society.”

Fiona Fletcher-Smith, chair of the G15 and CEO of L&Q Housing, added: “Social housing residents are the beating heart of London - not only as essential workers, but as neighbours, carers, young professionals, families, and active members of their communities.

“We must challenge negative stereotypes, confront damaging rhetoric, and ensure that our residents are treated with respect and dignity.”

Most residents feel living in social housing has enhanced their lives

Despite the feeling of being stigmatised, 57% of residents believe living in social accommodation has had a positive impact on their lives.

This is largely for financial reasons. 

For example, 67% said living in social housing means they can save money on rent as they don’t have to rent privately.

That, in turn, is helping them living happier and healthier lives.

As one resident said: “My health and mental health is (the most important thing), because I was extremely worried about finances while living in the privately let house.

“It was very overwhelming. 

“My financial situation improved (since moving into social housing) and I can finally breathe and stop worrying every day.”

Get impartial advice

If you live in social housing and need help with your finances, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch for free advice.

We can help with everything from budgeting to debt solutions, and make sure you’re getting everything you’re entitled to.

Rest assured that you’ll get confidential, impartial advice free of judgement, and that we pride ourselves on treating everybody with the respect they deserve, no matter where they live.