Every decision about care should be a decision about housing

Housing associations play a key role in preventing and tackling health inequalities. As community anchors, they understand the needs of their area and provide vital services in supporting tenants and health services.

With the introduction of Integrated Care Systems earlier this year, it has never been more important that housing associations are involved in local health and care plans to guarantee a joined-up, robust and effective health service.

Over the past few months, the National Housing Federation has worked with its members to draw together case studies of this work in practice. They outline the breadth, social value and economic benefit of housing associations positive effect on health outcomes, including:

• Home Group’s Mental Health Hospital Discharge Service
• The West Yorkshire Housing Partnership
• Coastline Housing’s crisis accommodation for people experiencing homelessness.

There are many more examples within the booklet which has been designed to be shared with Integrated Care Boards and local decision makers.