Employability amongst social housing tenants

Around one in seven people of working age in England are residing in social housing, and a further look tells us that these residents are twice as likely to be unemployed than those in other forms of tenure.

Housing providers are becoming increasingly aware of the struggles that their tenants face when trying to secure a job. As such, there is a focus on how they can create strategies in order to support their chances of future employment, their income and their overall wellbeing. There are a number of approaches that can be taken, but the actions can generally be grouped into the following three categories:

• Core employment services involve offering one-to-one assistance with planning for and researching potential employment with tenants;

• Specialist support for those further from work is aimed specifically at those with health conditions and disabilities, disadvantaged minority groups, disadvantaged young people, or those with complex needs; and

• Using resources and funding to create opportunities and training within organisations.

Housing providers play a key role within communities, are often in regular contact with their tenants and are able to access a wide range of services and support, and so whilst there are undoubtedly challenges in supporting employability of tenants, providers do have an important role to play in helping to overcome barriers and drive change in an inclusive way.

To discuss any further, don't hesitate to contact the Employment team.