In response to the second reading of the Renters Reform Bill this evening, Joanna Elson CBE, CEO of Independent Age said:
“The number of older private renters has increased substantially in the last decade, and with this trend likely to continue, it’s vital that their voices are heard as the Renters Reform Bill makes its way through Parliament.
“Older renters in financial hardship desperately need greater protections, including an end to discriminatory ‘No DSS’ policies which mean older people who receive financial support like Pension Credit can be refused housing.
“The UK Government must also quickly implement the promised end to Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. Our research shows that in just one-month last year, more than 2,600 older private renters were put at risk of homelessness as they were evicted from their home. With only 2 months' notice currently required to be given by landlords, finding somewhere new to live can plunge those affected into unimaginable levels of stress. Worrying reports over the weekend suggest the UK Government might delay the changes taking effect, but older private renters have already waited too long for much-needed security. The Government must not delay any further in giving renters, including those in later life, the rights they deserve.”