As the festive lights begin to twinkle, it’s clear the glow is not evenly shared. For some, a home means warmth, security and celebration. For others, it’s a grotty or unaffordable place, a temporary shelter or insecure lease.
Housing remains the setting of deep inequality – and the place from where credible plans for social renewal must grow. We are at a significant hinge moment for housing in Britain. In October, the long-awaited Renters’ Rights Bill became an act and Awaab’s Law was passed, changing the game for social housing. Neither will fi x all the shortcomings that exist. But they are welcome significant steps.
Last week homeless charity Crisis said 300,000 households in England were experiencing the worst forms of homelessness: from sleeping rough to living in B&Bs. Meanwhile, the scandal of more than 172,000 children living in temporary accommodation continues to shame us all. In this issue we speak to Awaab Ishak’s father, Faisal Abdullah, who lost his son due to the dire state of his social home.
He is a man who is broken by loss but clear that something positive must come. We consider what change can really look like and hear from the prime minister, writing for Big Issue, and Grand Designs fountainhead Kevin McCloud on ways ahead. Everybody stuck in what is grotty should be able to look forward to a grotto – and not just at Christmas.
What is in this week’s Big Issue?
‘My son has passed away now but this has left me a legacy I can remember’
For Faisal Abdullah, the support of the public is what has kept him going in the aftermath of his son Awaab Ishak’s death. Now, a new law in Awaab’s name promises to fix social homes.
Why it’s good to talk to our vendors this Christmas
Feeling lonely? Ironically, you’re not alone. Around 10% of adults often feel lonely, while more than half report experiencing loneliness at least some of the time. This epidemic of isolation takes a serious toll – raising risks of depression, anxiety and heart disease for individuals, while weakening community ties and threatening social cohesion. But new research commissioned by Big Issue has found one simple way to counter isolation: talking to our vendors.
