Older tenants going without food to pay rent – claim
Summary
Independent Age says the freeze on Local Housing Allowance is leaving many older private renters unable to cover rent from Housing Benefit, forcing them to use limited pension income for essentials. The charity argues that rising rents, particularly for one-bed homes, are worsening affordability pressures and increasing the risk of poor health and homelessness among older tenants.
Why it matters
Surveyors involved in valuation, lettings and housing advice may see growing affordability stress among lower-income older renters, with knock-on effects for arrears, tenancy sustainability and demand for lower-cost stock. The report also highlights continued concerns about the condition of some older private rented homes and the interaction between affordability and housing quality.
Key points
- Independent Age says 69% of older renters on Housing Benefit do not receive enough to cover rent.
- The charity is urging the government to unfreeze Local Housing Allowance in the upcoming Budget.
- Average one-bed rents have reportedly risen by over 18% since the latest freeze began.
- More than a quarter of older private renters are said to live in homes failing the Decent Homes Standard.
- The report links rent shortfalls to reduced spending on heating, food and socialising.
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