Who takes the blame for homelessness and housing insecurity? ROTA’s new research funded by OAK Foundation starts from the position that, contrary to a view that people in such circumstances are personally responsible for their situations, it is not the fault of the individual.
Homelessness might happen to anyone and can take different forms. From the more visible rough sleeping to the increasing number of the hidden homeless, who sofa surf, move from one friend to another or find other temporary solutions. Numerous external factors contribute to homelessness, across age range, sex, socio-economic class and ethnic group. The view that homeless people are somehow at fault for not having a permanent place to live is out-dated and incorrect.
Unsuitable or poor housing conditions affect many people who cannot be held responsible for deteriorating or unsafe dwellings. For those in social housing or privately rented homes, the condition of the building inside and out may have been long neglected and in some cases, it is very difficult to hold owners or landlords to account for repair. In flats and communal dwellings, faulty construction, leaks, damp, mould, broken lifts, unsafe electricals have been among serious issues faced by tenants who, collectively have been unable to have them addressed.[1] The Grenfell Tower disaster was a case in point and has continued to resonate.
The lack of social housing and rental properties is not due to individuals making unreasonable demands for somewhere decent to live. Hostile attitudes towards the most vulnerable people in society – refugees and asylum seekers – suggests that this perception, though, can be held during a housing crisis. It has been illustrated by the organised protests and intimidation of people, including families with children living in hostels.
The blame, and shame, of homelessness or living in poorly maintained or substandard accommodation can be keenly experienced as a personal failing. Housing support agencies are aware of the devastating effect on individuals and families who have a sense that they have ‘brought it on themselves’. This can be exacerbated by the negative attitudes of a wider public. The perception is misguided and wrong. The fault is not with the homeless.
ROTA’s research asks, how did this situation arise? There is an acknowledged housing crisis. What are the causes and who is to blame for the situation? In the next months we will examine these questions by engaging with housing providers, support and advisory services, particularly those who represent and work with BGM communities. Our aim is to challenge the narrative around the individual blame-culture and to examine whether this is also embedded in structural and institutional values and what can be done about it.
[1] The Renters Rights Act 2026, will go some way towards making landlords take action to improve the condition of substandard accommodation.