Funding from the Fusion21 Foundation is enabling Longleigh Foundation to conduct crucial research into the role social housing can play in providing affordable homes in rural areas.
This work is hugely important in the context of an increasing rural housing crisis, caused by high property values, increased demand, and limited development of new homes, resulting in many local households now being unable to afford to remain within the rural community where they have grown up.
The Longleigh Foundation is a compassionate grant-making foundation that, working in partnership with housing associations, aims to improve the wellbeing of social housing residents.
In collaboration with Stonewater and with £30,000 in match funding from the Fusion21 Foundation, the research project aims to understand the suitability of existing stock to meet the needs of existing rural social housing communities, outline the changes needed to overcome barriers, and identify key asks of the government to support rural communities to flourish.
The findings will be used to raise the profile of the challenges for social housing residents living in rural communities, and the impact on the wider community. This research will also identify solutions and ultimately assist social landlords to better meet the needs of rural communities, building more resilience and boosting financial inclusion.
The report has the backing of leading housing association Stonewater, who will use the findings to influence their rural housing strategy, as well as engagement with government.
Jo Hannan, Head of Fusion21 Foundation said: “The Fusion21 Foundation is committed to helping find solutions to the housing crisis and this project has an important role to play in addressing an under-reported aspect of the crisis.
“People living in rural communities face real challenges finding affordable homes and we are delighted our funding is contributing towards addressing this problem. As a foundation, we’re passionate about funding projects that help create new solutions to ongoing issues and this research resonates with our funding priorities of financial inclusion and resilience.”
Aileen Edmunds, Longleigh Foundation’s Chief Executive, said: "Unlocking the solutions to affordable rural homes, will enable families to remain in their communities, safeguard vital support networks and strengthen local economies. By ensuring schools, shops, and social hubs like pubs thrive, affordable housing reduces isolation and shields vulnerable households from the effects of disconnection and poverty."
Nicholas Harris, Stonewater Chief Executive, said: “Stonewater is delighted to partner with Longleigh and the Fusion21 Foundation to better understand the ways providers can maintain our rural communities and ensure they continue to thrive in the future.”
“Delivering vital affordable housing in rural areas has been a cornerstone of our development programme at Stonewater since forming in 2015.
“Rural housing not only brings many social and economic benefits to communities in those areas, but to the country as a whole. It is vital we continue to explore the ways the sector can provide the tools to unlock those benefits for years to come.”