A new report by the UCL Institute of Health Equity, published today, examines the significant impacts of housing on health and well-being.

Titled 'Building Health Equity: The Role of the Property Sector in Improving Health,' the report emphasizes that inadequate housing quality and access is linked to poorer health outcomes.

It identifies three key housing-related health factors: quality, supply, and affordability, proposing solutions to address the UK's urgent housing needs.

The report highlights a concerning 14.7% increase in children living in temporary accommodation in England, totaling 150,000, which adversely affects their education and future prospects.

The lack of affordable, quality housing costs society £18.5 billion annually, including £1.4 billion for NHS treatment of housing-related health issues like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Without intervention, the economic impact of sickness due to poor housing could rise significantly, affecting up to 4.3 million individuals by 2029.

To combat these issues, the report calls on the national government to prioritize affordable housing in its goal to deliver 1.5 million homes over the next five years.

Key recommendations include increasing the supply of affordable homes, ensuring homes are designed for health and well-being, and fostering community relationships.

Professor Sir Michael Marmot stresses the need for the property sector to prioritize health equity alongside profitability in housing development.

The report suggests pilot projects to demonstrate effective housing solutions, aiming to create healthier living environments and reduce health inequalities.

Additionally, it highlights the importance of biodiversity and community spaces in promoting overall health.

Finally, property developers and investors are urged to enhance the quality and sustainability of housing as part of their contributions to the community.