The Commissioner for the Equality and Human Rights Commission has made clear that decent housing is a basic human right that helps people to enjoy independent and fulfilled lives (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2019). Everyone, including people who have a disability, should have the right to live independently, although many take this right for granted. In the UK, however, some disabled people are being denied this basic human right and authorities are not brought to account.
If housing is seen as a cornerstone of an equitable society and independent living, why do so many people with disabilities live in homes that do not meet their requirements? People with disabilities must be given choice and control over their lives, this includes access to accessible housing. If this basic human right is to become a reality, then urgent action is needed.
Housing is inextricably linked to health, wellbeing, financial security and economic mobility; it should not be treated as a market commodity. It is the basis of stability and security for an individual or family, it is the centre of social, emotional and sometimes economic lives, a home should be a sanctuary; a place to live in peace, with security and with dignity.
Denying people this right can have a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities. Poor or inappropriate housing can result in mobility problems and indignity. It prevents people from living an independent life, results in poor mental health and wellbeing and increases feelings of social isolation and anxiety. The impact of not having an accessible home also means that people with a disability are four times less likely to be in work (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2019). In some instances, housing is seen as a financial vehicle for those who have wealth to invest rather than a safe place for people to live and thrive (United Nations Human Rights, Office of the High Commissioner, 2019).
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (2019) inquiry provides uncomfortable reading. There is a chronic shortage of accessible homes; only 7% of homes in England provide minimal accessibility features.
It is acknowledged that not all people with a disability need adaptations made to their homes. Those who do, however, may struggle to have these adaptations carried out, often due to unacceptable bureaucracy and delay. It has been reported that 68% of local authorities do not always comply with accessibility requirements (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2019). Adaptations can range from minor changes, for example, the mounting of grab rails, to the installation of stair lifts, wet rooms and hoists. When adaptations are installed in a timely manner, this can bring with it significant savings to the economy.
There are some local authorities who are leading the change as they put disabled people's needs at the centre of the planning process; however, this is not always the case. The key to ensuring adequate housing is through appropriate government policy and programmes and this will include national housing strategies.
UK governments (when applicable) need to build more accessible and adaptable homes. Where home adaptations are needed they should be installed in a timely fashion. Making reasonable adaptations is a legal duty under section 36 of the Equality Act 2010 for England and Wales. Local authorities need to work with the NHS to ensure that those people who are living in institutional and residential care are offered support to live independently if they wish. Homes have to be matched to the people who need them and people must be supported to live independently.
The vast amounts of wealth generated from non-government housing development complexes have left governments accountable to investors rather than where their accountability should rest—with their human rights obligations.