Social Housing Versus Sanctuary Cities

We have a situation where our own people are having to stay homeless whilst local councils and governments prioritise the needs of people from all across the globe before the needs of their own taxpaying citizens.

Housing crisis

• Since 2021, the number of homeless people in England has increased by 35,145.

• Since 2018, 21,470 more children across England are growing up homeless in temporary accommodation.

• Since 2020, across the UK, there are 149,960 more households on waiting lists.

• In 2023, Gloucester has 473 people recorded as homeless.

• In Gloucester, 200 children live in temporary accommodation.

• In 2023, Gloucester has 4,800 people on the social housing waiting list.

These figures clearly indicate a housing crisis in Gloucester and across the nation.

And yet….. Gloucester has declared itself a “sanctuary city” The city council has decided - without public consultation - to welcome asylum seekers and illegal immigrants seeking asylum in the UK.

Priority given They prioritise social housing and care for people from Afghanistan and other conflict zones before attending to the needs of Gloucester residents.

A local Labour councillor states that those who are “not as welcoming - need to be educated."

Proper education Perhaps The local Labour councillor needs to be educated by the 473 homeless people, some of whom are military veterans, the 200 children living in temporary accommodation, and the 4,800 people waiting for social housing.

Gloucester Council's primary duty is to the people of Gloucester, not to people from Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Ukraine, or any other place.

Charity begins at home. If you believe housing priority should be given to local people in need rather than to people from the rest of the globe who are in need

Sources:

• GOV.UK Homelessness Statistics • Crisis UK Homelessness Monitor 2023

Then please vote for Reform UK Chris Farmer, City of Gloucester.