Publication details:
Pages: 8
Published: October 2017
Publisher: CIB

This joint CIB/ Threshold report uses data from Citizens Information Services and Threshold to examine the barriers experienced by people in accessing and retaining suitable and affordable housing. The report has a particular focus on tenants who are relying on the private rented sector for social housing. With the current housing market characterised by under-supply and declining affordability, this research draws on housing queries recorded by CISs and Threshold over a two year period to explore the circumstances of renters seeking advice. The report found that lack of security of tenure and affordability were the top concerns, with tenancy termination the most prevalent issues facing private renters and that vulnerable clients on fixed incomes were most likely to be adversely impacted. In addition, the issue of rent increases ranked highly for renters of all ages and background

This report profiles the information needs of migrants who use the national network of Citizens Information Services (CISs) and considers the implications of this for the information, advice and advocacy services that are supported by CIB. The research has a particular focus on those migrants who are in more vulnerable circumstances - due to a combination of legal status and individual, family and socio-economic factors and who have sought advice and assistance. The report also documents the experiences and perceptions of information providers in assisting migrants and locates these within the broader policy environment. The report is particularly relevant in the context of the more recent experience of CISs in providing information and advice to Ukrainian refugees seeking assistance through the government supported information hubs and other outreach initiatives.