“Safe housing is more than just four walls – it’s the foundation for everything that follows”
BY AIMEE BUTLER, IMAGE BY POCSTOCK
A recent Impact Report from Stonewall Housing has highlighted that the number of LGBTQIA+ people requiring housing support has reached an all-time high.
The report showed the highest increase in the number of LGBTQIA+ people requiring support in the organisation’s history, with 3,733 people supported this year (16.6% increase).
Homelessness and housing instability do not happen in isolation, and can often be a result of several factors such as discrimination, mental health needs, substance abuse and the presence of internal barriers within the housing system.
The report also found that compounding experiences, such as being both queer and a person of colour, navigating recovery from substance abuse without stable and secure housing, or being over the age of 50 and digitally excluded, can be detrimental to the acquisition of housing using mainstream services.
Additionally, the report noted that 27.8% of service users were trans or gender non-conforming, communities that often face additional barriers and discrimination when it comes to securing safe housing.
Steven McIntyre, the Chief Executive of Stonewall Housing, stated that “safe housing is more than just four walls – it’s the foundation for everything that follows”.
“When an LGBTQ+ person has a home where they are safe and affirmed, they can begin to heal, to dream and to build their future with dignity.”
He went on to add that it is “not just about ending homelessness, but helping people thrive.”
Stonewall Housing is making strong progress regarding the provision of housing support to members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The report stated that 100% of people using Stonewall’s services were rehoused in safe accommodation within six months, and 270 budgeting and financial empowerment sessions, which equip clients with the knowledge and tools needed for long-term housing stability.
Steven further added that while the current situation is challenging, the “compassion, courage, and solidarity” seen across the board is “extraordinary”.
“From volunteers and donors to housing providers and frontline staff, people are coming together to make sure LGBTQ+ people are not left behind. That collective commitment gives us hope for the future.”
“Together, we are building a world where every LGBTQ+ person has safety, belonging, and the chance to thrive.”
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