The legislation in question, The Homelessness and Social Housing Allocations Bill, which was passed by the Senedd with unanimous support.
This puts the wheels into motion on an agenda that is sweeping across the UK in the new year: addressing homelessness at its roots. And with this advance, Wales is in the driver’s seat.
On paper, the bill aims to prioritise a multi agency response to homelessness. Formed using recommendations by the many associated charities and NGOs operational in Wales, it pledges a unique response. It prioritises bringing Welsh public services together to respond to the causes and consequences of homelessness, transforming the homelessness system in Wales to focus on earlier identification and prevention, targeting those most at risk.
It marks a resounding success not only for Wales (who reserve bragging rights) but stands to prove the broader triumph of devolution in the UK, something that’s sure to put a smile on the chops of architect Tony Blair.
Only in recent history has Wales held powers that allow it to make and implement such legislative changes independent of Westminster. The 1999 creation of the Senedd landed them responsibility for policy areas like housing, facilitating the creation of what’s proving to be pioneering policy. The Senedd’s ability to self determine certain areas in this way also provides more targeted and effective policy delivery, as opposed to the prior arrangement of Westminster legislating on behalf of Wales. And this system certainly has its benefits. Implementation of such legislation in the devolved Welsh jurisdiction first can later benefit the rest of the UK alike. It serves as a kind of ‘trial run’ before wider implementation across the UK, reducing the risks associated with rolling out large scale policy change from Westminster across the nation.
Autonomy and union are the associated benefits therefore from the Senedd’s standpoint, they can have their (welsh) cake, and eat it. What’s more, in a time when Starmer is inching closer to Europe with most recent defence pledges and rejoining the Erasmus Scheme last month, this legislative direction can’t help but echo that of continental Europe. Take Finland for example, a well established, progressive, Scandinavian welfare state with a leading system of education and rehabilitation.
They implement a ‘Housing First’ policy which treats housing as a fundamental right and foundation for perpetuating personal success. Recognition for the need to address base level issues and inequalities in the UK, and now legislative progression in Wales reflects EU style policy, highlighting what’s proving to be an increasingly eurocentric direction for the UK. Despite the negative narratives around Brexit, Wales is showing that it is possible to take ideas from Europe on housing policy and translate them into legislation in a bold move to address the homelessness problem in the UK.
Long term success ultimately lies in the hands of the oncoming government
With the Senedd elections of May upon us, the Bill’s long term success ultimately lies in the hands of the oncoming government, who will be responsible for its implementation. This leaves work still to be done. Whilst the bill being passed does mark huge success, ensuring continued cross party support for this change going forward is just as important, carried once more on the backs of the associated charities and NGOs.
As the new government takes its seat, their role will continue to be one of importance in ensuring the bill takes its full course and delivers on its promises. So with Westminster announcing £124 million for supporting housing services in 2026/27–2028/29, aiming to assist over 2,500 people in England, can the UK sustain this journey toward world leading, more European style homelessness policy? Or will the outcome of the Senedd elections doom the ‘test trial’ necessary to get this ball well and truly rolling?
All eyes on the Senedd’s summertime sequel.