Homefinder UK, the national housing mobility scheme run by Home Connections, has released its 2024/25 Impact Report, showcasing the scale and significance of its work to tackle the UK’s housing crisis.
Amid record-breaking waiting lists and a chronic shortage of affordable homes, Homefinder UK has helped more than 1,800 people and families relocate to safe, long-term housing – including over 230 survivors of domestic abuse and dozens of rough sleepers. The scheme works by helping those prepared to move to a new location by matching them to affordable and available housing in different parts of the country. For those who take up this option it can offer a route to permanent and suitable housing.
The report reveals that Homefinder UK not only provides direct relocation support, but also delivers substantial cost savings to local authorities. In 2024/25 alone, the scheme saved councils over £3 million in temporary accommodation costs, while maintaining a tenancy failure rate of less than 1% which is significantly lower than national averages.
“You didn’t just give me a place to live; you gave me a chance to rebuild my life,” said one applicant, who was rough sleeping in Bristol before moving to permanent social housing in Cheshire.
With 24,000+ calls handled yearly by its team and a growing network of more than 100 housing partners across the country, Homefinder UK offers wraparound case management, relocation funding, and tailored support for a diverse range of vulnerable people – including refugees, people with accessibility needs, and those fleeing unsafe living conditions.
Sharon Roberts, Head of Lettings at Southern Housing and Chair of Homefinder UK said: “We know that a safe, secure home is the foundation for everything else – from education to employment and recovery.”
“This impact is only possible because of our dedicated team, our local authority and housing association partners, and the individuals who trust us with their journey.”
As the housing crisis deepens, the report outlines Homefinder UK’s future commitments, including:
- Expanding local housing options for people wanting to stay near family or work
- Doubling relocation support funding through funding partnerships
- Strengthening accessible housing pathways for disabled applicants
- Increasing employment, training and wellbeing support for rehoused applicants
Only 2.5% of private properties are now affordable (using LHA rates as the measure of affordability) and most of these are located in lower demand areas of the country. The scheme is calling on greater urgency from the government to fulfil its promises to build social housing and to provide more financial support for relocation schemes.
To download the report visit: https://homefinderuk.org/impact-report-2024-25
