Ben Wealthy

News that half a million landlords are planning to sell their buy-to-let property, or properties, is a unique opportunity to rebuild council housing stocks.  A significant proportion of homes in the private rented sector were built as council homes - about 38% according to Inside Housing . A recent report by Savills, commissioned the LGA, Association of Retained Council Housing (ARCH) and National Federation of ALMOs, estimates that 100,000 homes are likely to be sold through Right to Buy by 2030, with just 43,000 created in their place.  Right to Buy discounts leave councils without the necessary funding to replace properties lost, let alone increase the number of councils homes overall. This conundrum explains the thinking behind Right to Buy Back - a scheme launched by the Mayor of London in 2021.  As the name suggests, it gives councils the funding to purchase ex-council homes back. 1,577 properties across fourteen London boroughs are in council hands once again, contributing to

This blog considers the parameters and possibilities for charities seeking to influence policy in the context of a looming general election. There are two broad questions for charities to think about when developing their approach to public affairs. One relates to legalities and the other pragmatism. I will briefly reflect on each in turn.  I wanted to start by making a statement that should go without saying. Attempting to improve public policy is a noble pursuit. Many undermine and belittle it, often driven by ideological or commercial interests, however this activity is vital to a thriving democracy. It should be prized; and pursued without fear or favour. It is entirely proper for charities to argue for changes in policy, regulation, law and spending. Guidance from the Charity Commission makes clear that "campaigning and political activity can be legitimate and valuable activities." Although it should not be the sole purpose of a charity and must be undertaken "only