Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) are often promoted as a quick money-making opportunity, but at least one in four in England are operating illegally, often leading to vulnerable people living in squalid and cramped conditions. Poor housing is not just a housing issue; it is a public health emergency. The NHS spends an estimated £1.4bn a year treating conditions caused or worsened by poor housing. It’s a crisis that is exacerbated by a chronic lack of affordable housing nationwide.
Josh Toussaint-Strauss looks into the scale of the problem, and how local grassroots organisations are trying to improve things. Canopy and Back on the Map, which feature in this video, are part of the Guardian’s charity appeal which is raising money for projects that are connecting communities and building solidarity, pride and hope across the country
