Empty Homes to Benefit the Homeless

The forthcoming Christmas period and its attendant celebrations will once again highlight the needs of those who do not have the security of their own roof over their heads.  The plight of those who are homeless or sharing accommodation that is unsuitable for their needs will undoubtedly be brought to light.

Communities Minister Andrew Stunell has said that that it was a top Government priority to bring empty properties across the country back into use, and ensure these are available for people in need of a new home.

Mr Stunell said:

"The number of empty homes in this country is a national scandal. There is a clear and pressing need for new homes in this country, yet for every two families that need a home there is one standing empty”.

The recent Housing Strategy included an additional £50 million to help areas with the worst concentrations of empty properties, whilst the Coalition is also consulting on giving councils the power to charge an Empty Homes Premium - worth up to 50 per cent of council tax - on properties that have been left vacant for more than two years.

Housing Minister, Grant Shapps (@grantshapps) has Tweeted his concerns for the homeless and the actions that can be taken to help address this situation and the returning of empty property onto the housing stock can only be a move in the right direction.

Councils, housing associations and voluntary groups can apply for a share of £100 million Government funding to help bring more empty homes back into use.  Latest figures show that over the past year the numbers of long-term empty homes has fallen by over 21,000 - the biggest year-on-year drop since 2004.  Last year, councils delivered 159,000 properties - both newly built homes and empty homes brought back into use.