Tackling the cost of living crisis through property guardianship
The cost of living crisis in the UK has been a growing concern for many years. With rising prices of basic necessities such as food, fuel, and housing, many people are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. The cost of housing, in particular, has become a significant burden for many, with rent prices rising faster than wages in many areas. This has led to a situation where people are struggling to find affordable and secure housing. Many are turning to property guardianship as a solution.
This innovative housing model involves placing responsible, reliable people in vacant properties in exchange for low-cost rent. Property guardians are required to maintain the property and provide a presence to deter vandalism and other forms of damage. In return, they benefit from low-cost accommodation in a central location, often close to their work or other amenities.
Recent statistics have shown that the cost of living crisis is affecting more people than ever before. According to a report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, over 14 million people in the UK are living in poverty, with many of them unable to afford basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. The same report also found that the number of people living in poverty has been increasing steadily over the past few years. The housing crisis in London highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to come to the fore.
Property guardianship provides a unique solution to the cost of living crisis in several ways. Firstly, it allows people to access affordable housing in central locations, which is often out of reach for many people due to high rent prices. By living as property guardians, individuals can save a significant amount of money on rent, which can be put towards other expenses such as bills, food, and other necessities.
Secondly, property guardianship provides a sense of community that can be difficult to find in other housing arrangements. Property guardians are often like-minded people who share similar values and interests, and the communal living arrangements can provide a strong support network. This can be particularly important for people who are struggling financially or who are new to an area and looking to make connections.
Furthermore, property guardianship can provide a boost to the wider community by bringing vacant properties back into use. Many areas in the UK have a high number of empty properties, which can be a blight on the local area and attract anti-social behaviour. By placing property guardians in these properties, they become occupied and maintained. Guardian housing can have a positive impact on the wider community.
The cost of living crisis in the UK is a growing concern for many people, and innovative solutions are needed to tackle this issue. Property guardianship provides an affordable and community-focused approach to housing, which can help people access secure and affordable accommodation in central locations. With the number of empty properties in the UK continuing to rise, property guardianship offers a practical and effective solution to the cost of living crisis, benefitting both individuals and wider communities.