A longstanding involvement in the linked issues of housing affordability and housing need has come back into focus in a context where these chronic problems seem to be worsening and where there is agreement across the political spectrum that more needs to be done, but what, where and how much remains unclear. Our research has illuminated the definition and measurement of these problems and exemplifies the most developed economic-based model to analyse future housing requirements and the likely outcomes and impacts of different policies in different regions and types of locality. Recent work has also focused on the definition and measurement of homelessness, going beyond the confines of the statutory system, and projecting likely homelessness scenarios into the future.

The table provides a summary of key recent research projects in this field.  For publications see our Publications section.

TitleAboutDatesFunderLead Researcher(s)Link
UK Housing ReviewI-SPHERE support annual UK housing review2021Chartered Institute of HousingGlen Bramley and Suzanne FitzpatrickFurther Information
Greater Manchester’s A Bed Every Night programme evaluationThis study evaluated the effectiveness of Greater Manchester’s A Bed Every Night (ABEN) programme in achieving its core aims of reducing rough sleeping among those experiencing it or at imminent risk of doing so, addressing the support needs of those accessing ABEN, and securing move-on to more suitable accommodation. A key focus was understanding the experiences of those who have accessed programme accommodation and support.2020-2021Greater Manchester AuthorityBeth WattsFurther Information
The COVID-19 crisis response to homelessness in Great BritainThe COVID-19 crisis response to homelessness in Great Britain in partnership with CaCHE provides a comparative examination of responses to homelessness during the COVID-19 crisis across England, Scotland and Wales. The research will explore the impact of crisis interventions and elements of the COVID-19 crisis response should be embedded in post-pandemic homelessness policy and practice.2020-2021ESRCSuzanne FitzpatrickFurther Information
Homelessness amongst EEA nationalsThis is a joint project with Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR) and University College London (UCL). It will (1) develop a data model to estimate current levels of homelessness amongst EEA nationals and (2) inform a better understanding of the causes and impacts of homelessness amongst EEA nationals specifically.2020-2021CrisisGlen Bramley
Evaluation of Institute of Global Homelessness A Place to Call Home ProgrammeThis international research project examines the progress of 13 vanguard cities across the globe who signed up to targets to reduce street homelessness under the IGH A Place to call home initiative. It examines the various approaches taken in the cities to reducing street homelessness including in response to the COVID 19 pandemic and aims to identify lessons to inform international street homeless responses.2020-2021Oak FoundationSuzanne Fitzpatrick and Beth Watts
Housing supply requirements across Great Britain for low-income households and homeless peopleThe project examines the scale of additional housing needed across England, Scotland and Wales, with particular emphasis on meeting the housing requirements of low income households and homeless people. The research highlights the current need (including backlog of need) and future housing requirements across the entire market, with focus on the need for housing products which are accessible and affordable to households at the sub market level.2018, 2020National Housing Federation and CrisisGlen BramleyFull Report
Temporary Accommodation in ScotlandThe study aims to provide a detailed understanding of the nature, purpose and use of Temporary Accommodation (TA) across Scotland. It looks at the definition, types, purpose, quality and appropriateness and costs of TA and variations in this across Scotland and across homeless groups. It examines the experiences, at individual household level, in terms of length and patterns and satisfaction with TA. It provides recommendations on the future shape, nature and function of TA in Scotland.2018Social BiteBeth WattsFull Report
The Alternatives For Including Non-household Populations In Estimates Of Personal Well-being And DestitutionThis project is to look at alternative ways in which “non-household” populations can be counted in measures of living standards and personal well-being.2018Office of National StatisticsGlen BramleyWorking Paper
Evidence Centre on UK HousingHeriot Watt University is a partner in the UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE). The centre, a consortium of academic and sector leaders was established in 2017 to provide a leading voice in the UK on housing policy and practice. The Centre draws together an expert, multi-disciplinary, multi-sector team to share learning from regions and countries and establish more effective mechanisms for exchanging evidence and learning across devolved jurisdictions. The centre aims include to lead comprehensive research and foster innovation.2017-2022EHRCSuzanne FitzpatrickFurther Information
Homelessness MonitorThe Homelessness monitor is a longditudinal study commissioned by Crisis and funded by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. The monitor defines ‘core’ and ‘wider’ homelessness and measures the scale of these phenomena for England, Wales and Scotland, as well as forecasting future trends. It examines the impact of policy and legislation on homelessness across the UK.2011-2021CrisisGlen Bramley and Suzanne FitzpatrickFurther Information