Quantifying The Health Benefits of the Decent Homes Programme

This research quantifies the financial benefits of the Decent Homes programme, revealing significant reductions in NHS costs due to improved housing conditions.

This report presents unique research aimed at quantifying the extent to which improvements in social housing, stemming from the Decent Homes programme (2001–2010), have contributed to reducing costs for the NHS related to housing-related injuries and illnesses. It outlines the methodology employed in the research, which is based on the framework established in the previous study, 'The Real Cost of Poor Housing' (Roys et al 2010). This foundational approach enables a comprehensive assessment of the financial impact that improved housing conditions have on public health and healthcare costs.

In addition to the primary focus on the NHS cost reductions, the report delves into several critical areas. It highlights the additional societal costs associated with non-decent homes, emphasizing the broader implications of inadequate housing on community well-being. The research also addresses the impact of less severe, yet still significant, hazards identified by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), underscoring the necessity of addressing these issues to enhance overall living conditions.

Furthermore, the report discusses the work that remains to ensure that all homes meet decent standards and emphasizes the importance of maintaining existing standards in dwellings currently classified as decent. Quantifying The Health Benefits of the Decent Homes Programme ultimately provides essential insights into the intersection of housing quality and public health, offering a compelling case for ongoing investment in social housing improvements.