Government called on to clarify if help for private renters will include students

The Government has been called on to clarify whether students will be included in plans to support renters through the cost of living crisis.

The founder of Very Wise Student points out that the Government has suggested support might be on the way for renters unable to afford rents, which have risen 16% this year, but there is no suggestion so far that this support will extend to struggling students.

Speaking on the BBC recently, Housing Secretary Michael Gove stated: ”We know people in the private rented sector and in the social rented sector are facing tough times. We are looking at a range of options to help them. It could mean targeted support for all sorts of people who are in difficulty. 

“Rent is going to be one of the challenges people will face… There are different ways of supporting people, whether that’s through Universal Credit, the tax system, or direct support.

Last month, the Scottish parliament passed emergency legislation designed to protect tenants hit by the cost of living crisis that freezes rents until at least the end of March 2023.

Rightmove’s Q3 2022 figures report the national average for asking rent has increased 11% year-on-year (excluding Greater London). The average asking rent for Greater London has increased 16.1% year-on-year.

Very Wise Student’s own analysis has indicated that students spend 76% of their income on renting.

Ajay Jagota, founder of Very Wise Student, comments: “The impact of the cost of living crisis on students all-too-often goes under the radar, but they are in exactly the same position as other private renters, facing rising rents with restricted budgets which are already having to stretch further and further with every passing day.

“If the Government is going offer support to renters, that support has to come in a way which applies to those in student accommodation – and if that support comes through Universal Credit or the tax system it must be mindful that students may not benefit from it.

“At Very Wise Student we’re seeing a steep spike in demand for our services – and that will come as no surprise to people who have seen pictures like the ones on national news of students in Durham queuing up overnight to try and find homes. A shortage of student accommodation is likely to force students into the arms of unscrupulous and uncaring landlords and letting agents peddling unsafe and unsanitary homes.

“Very Wise Student helps all student renters get access to legal justice. Whatever the issue is with their rented student housing we will take up the issue directly with their landlord or agent – and if all this extra pressure is really getting on top of them, we can help with emotional support too.”