Family Mosaic has published the findings of research it commissioned to look at the likely impact of five year fixed term tenancies.
The research found:
- Of all the tenants who had been living in a Family Mosaic for five years, only 10 per cent would be able to move out of social housing
- This 10 per cent did not currently want to move, as they were satisfied with their home and
services, and did not feel stigmatised - Many of the group would like to
own their own home, but feel that current routes to ownership are
attractive or unaffordable
Changing direction: Should social housing be a hand up or hand out? concludes that new and more attractive and flexible forms of home ownership are needed, that will allow renters to remain in their homes as their circumstances improve.
The relationship between landlord and tenants on fixed term tenancies will change – the report suggests it should include a time limited personal development plan, to encourage ambition and deter dependency. The report also suggests that landlords need help from government to ensure that existing welfare and employment services support these plans.
The report predicts the majority of tenants in the sector will need a life-long safety net if they are unable to afford unsubsidised housing. Nevertheless, they could be helped by their landlord to improve their life prospects.