The Covid Private Renters Project aims to tackle rising housing insecurity and evictions of renters in the private sector. Using wraparound, holistic support that has been the hallmark of Kineara’s services, the project aimed to provide advice and support to low-income renters facing a threat of eviction. It is modelled on Kineara’s intensive Rent Support Programme which had been delivered with successful outcomes to social sector tenants between 2012 and 2016.
When the Covid 19 pandemic began in early 2020, we wanted to respond to the possible impact of both the pandemic and the restrictions on those already most economically and socially vulnerable. We also became concerned, as did many across the housing sector, that the Government’s moratorium on evictions, announced in March 2020,would end in September that year with a flood of possession notices for renters whose incomes had been affected by the pandemic or who otherwise had been unable to keep up with rent.
This evaluation is an opportunity to share progress, outcomes and learnings so far, along with case studies and future plans for the project. With thanks to our partners, Southwark Law Centre, Southwark Council’s Private Rented Sector Team and Impact on Urban Health.