Massive ‘Hidden’ Social and Economic Benefits of Home Building Revealed

Research reveals the full contribution house building makes to the UK’s economy and its communities. It shows an industry worth £19.2bn per year to the UK economy, employing more than 600,000 workers and generating £1.4bn in tax revenues – as well as the additional community benefits derived from building desperately needed new homes.It shows the housebuilding industry also;

·         Spends £5.5bn with suppliers, 90% of which stays in the UK

·         Provides 32,000 affordable homes – worth £2.3bn –  with a  further £1bn paid to local authorities as a contribution to more affordable housing

·         Pays £576M towards community facilities;

·         £225M towards education facilities;

·         £131m in open spaces and community and sports facilities.

·         Generates a £3.8bn spend in local shops and services

Download the report from the HBF website.

Report Praises Crisis for Its 'Innovative' Help for Homeless

Homelessness charity Crisis has been praised for its "major innovation" in providing education and employment support for homeless people. The report from the Centre for Housing Policy at the University of York looked at education models around the world and concluded that Crisis has made "one of the most advanced and comprehensive attempts" at helping homeless people to re-enter society. It also highlights impressive achievements in getting people into secure paid work. In 2012 and 2013, Crisis helped to secure 852 paid jobs, 3,904 exam passes and certificates and 1,191 training places across the country. Download a copy of the report from the Crisis website.