Foundation to Thrive
Many of this country's greatest stories began in council-built social homes. We should all be proud of the social housing that has shaped our society.
That's why we’re calling on the government to get councils building social homes again. So that the next generation can also have a foundation to thrive.
Video transcript
When we build social homes, we’re building something bigger.
We’re building a place for people to grow. To hope. To begin.
To become dreamers and doers.
Movers and shakers.
Rockstars, movie stars, everyday superstars.
We’re building families and futures.
Communities and opportunities.
Best mates, first dates, lifelong memories.
When we build social homes, this is what happens.
Millions more people with the chance to thrive. To shine.
To build the life they were meant to lead.
Whatever that might be.
Our campaign
Watch our new video celebrating the amazing lives that have been built in social housing.
Stories that started in social homes have changed and shaped our country. Iconic music acts, unforgettable sporting moments and award-winning performances. Essential NHS workers, artists, teachers and so many more.
Millions of people who have gone on to achieve amazing things have their roots in social housing.
'When my son and I were homeless, getting a social home changed our lives. The community spirit was vital. Neighbours looked out for each other, supporting with school runs, emergencies. I'm proud of where we've gotten to, especially my son Billy. Having a permanent home has let him grow and change into the confident teenager he is now.'
– Shandor, Shelter ambassador
'Moving into permanent social housing meant me and my son Ethan-Leigh could finally settle in and make our house a real home. A home that gave Ethan safety and stability, seeing him through his GCSEs, his A Levels and now off to his first year of university.'
– Sireena, Shelter ambassador
176,130 children are growing up in temporary accommodation
19,000 social rent homes have been lost every year for the last decade
90,000 social houses must be built every year for the next 10 years to end the housing emergency
Stand up for social homes
We have record homelessness and spiralling rents because we haven't built enough social homes for decades.
The government promised us a council and social housing revolution. They pledged to build a new generation of social homes that everyone could afford. But, despite these promises, the number of social homes we have is actually falling.
We must hold the government to their promise.
Today, let's be proud of the impact of social housing and the foundation it has provided for us all to thrive. We're calling on the government to introduce legislation that will get councils building again. Sign our petition and be part of the campaign for life-changing social homes.
Sign the petition
A Foundation to Thrive
Learn more about social housing
What is social housing?
The story of social housing
