New research to unlock purpose-driven solutions for UK housing crisis

A new research project is underway aimed at exploring the potential of purpose-driven development in tackling the UK’s pervasive housing crisis and fostering the creation of safe and decent homes. This vital initiative, a collaboration between ReGenerate and the Quality of Life Foundation and spearheaded by Sadie Morgan, OBE, has secured funding from Landsec, The Crown Estate, Muse and HGG London.

The project comes at a critical time, with the UK grappling with a severe housing shortage, escalating property prices, and a dramatic rise in homelessness. Over 150,000 children are currently in temporary accommodation, and homeownership for young adults has halved since 1990. 

The research will focus on understanding and promoting ‘purpose-driven development’ – an approach that prioritises positive outcomes for both people and the planet alongside profit. With the government’s ambition to see 1.5 million new homes built by 2029, the research will offer insights into a different model of delivery, as an alternative to standard volume housebuilding approaches.

ReGenerate, the UK charity dedicated to pioneering business solutions to environmental and social challenges, has a strong track record convening business and government leaders, and making the case for purpose-driven business. Their expertise in policy development and government-business partnerships will be crucial in identifying policy barriers and developing actionable recommendations.

The Quality of Life Foundation, a charity committed to making health and wellbeing central to home and neighbourhood creation, will contribute its deep knowledge of the built environment and community research. Their involvement will ensure that the lived experiences of residents and the benefits of purpose-driven development directly inform policy conversations.

ReGenerate, the UK charity dedicated to pioneering business solutions to environmental and social challenges, has a strong track record convening business and government leaders, and making the case for purpose-driven business. Their expertise in policy development and government-business partnerships will be crucial in identifying policy barriers and developing actionable recommendations.

The Quality of Life Foundation, a charity committed to making health and wellbeing central to home and neighbourhood creation, will contribute its deep knowledge of the built environment and community research. Their involvement will ensure that the lived experiences of residents and the benefits of purpose-driven development directly inform policy conversations.

Bramwell Blower, Head of Policy at ReGenerate, said: “We are excited to embark on this crucial research. By working hand-in-hand with developers to understand how they are adopting purpose-driven approaches, we aim to provide the government with clear, actionable strategies to deliver the safe and decent homes the UK so desperately needs.”

Emma Cooke, Head of External Affairs at the Quality of Life Foundation said, “Our goal is to ensure that policy recommendations are firmly rooted in real-world experiences and lead to tangible improvements in people’s lives. This project represents a significant step towards creating homes and neighbourhoods that genuinely foster health and wellbeing.”

The findings of this research will be used to educate policymakers and provide a roadmap for collaborative action between the public and private sectors to address the UK’s pressing housing crisis.