Our ambitions

Our focus remains on responding to the complex and changing challenges faced by people at risk of homelessness. The pressure on the private rented sector continues to grow, with rents rising due to demand and the sector itself shrinking for those on low incomes. At the same time, property standards and environmental expectations are increasing, which shape the type and cost of housing available. While the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill may offer new rights to tenants, it could also create new barriers, deterring some landlords from letting to people with complex needs.

For example, although tenants may gain the right to keep pets, landlords will be able to ask for an extra deposit or pet damage insurance, adding more financial barriers. For people on low incomes in housing crisis,
choice is already limited. We are committed to helping our beneficiaries navigate these
changes, which means staying agile and informed. Our local market knowledge and community relationships are key strengths, and we will continue to adapt and advocate for solutions that work.

With changes to the welfare system, increasing rents and demand outstripping supply, many private Landlords have been put off renting to homeless people on benefits. The Bond Board has successfully developed positive relationships with a large range of Landlords and Letting Agents across Greater Manchester, however, with additional resources we could do more. We are seeking opportunities to provide support, change perceptions and break down the barriers that exist amongst Landlords and Letting agents so that more homeless people on low incomes can find a new place to call home.

The sudden increase in pressure caused by Covid, followed by the ongoing cost of living crisis is pushing many to breaking point. There is an increase in demand from existing service users as well as those who are new to the system with issues such debt, food and fuel poverty and rent arrears. We want to provide early, specialist homeless prevention support to both tenants and landlords to ensure as many people as possible avoid the trauma of homelessness, alongside practical help such as access to food, fuel and toiletries.

Social isolation and loneliness are major themes to emerge from our ‘Sustainable Livelihoods’ research project with service users. We are committed to delivering on the feedback from our service users and finding creative and innovative solutions to enable people to feel more connected and less alone. We are therefore actively seeking opportunities to support homeless and vulnerable people to build their resilience and reduce social isolation.

We are seeking opportunities to enhance The Bond Board’s resilience to ensure we can rise to the challenge of continuing to deliver quality assured services following Covid 19 and throughout the cost of living crisis. As such, we are delighted to be supported with a grant from The Leathersellers’ Company Charitable Fund.