Clarion Housing Group and LiveWest publish landmark SHARE report highlighting social housing resident experiences across the UK
Clarion Housing Group and LiveWest have today published the findings of their joint Social Housing and Resident Experience (SHARE) report, offering a powerful insight into the lived experiences of over 9,000 residents surveyed over three years.
The SHARE project, developed in partnership between the two housing associations, goes beyond traditional resident satisfaction measures to explore key themes such as neighbourhood belonging, loneliness, household finances, food bank use, internet access, and employment. The report provides a robust evidence base to help shape future services and support across the sector.
Clarion and LiveWest are now inviting other housing providers to join the SHARE project and contribute to a growing body of sector-wide insight. Participating organisations will gain access to a shared question bank and consistent methodology, enabling comparable data and collective learning.
Key findings
- Neighbourhood belonging: In 2023 84% of residents said they feel they belong in their neighbourhood, significantly higher than the national average of 54% but down from 88% in 2020.
- Financial hardship: In 2023, 48% of respondents said they only had enough money for essentials or tended to run out of money before the end of the month.
- Food bank use: 15% of residents reported using a food bank or similar service in the past year, five times the national average of 3%.
- Loneliness: The proportion of residents feeling lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’ rose from 6% in 2020 to 13% in 2023, with the highest rates among those aged 45-64 and those not in work.
- Digital inclusion: While 85% of residents use the internet, confidence in using online services has plateaued, particularly among older residents.
- Employment: Only 50% of working-age residents were in employment in 2023, compared to the national average of 75%.
- Housing need: 77% of residents agreed there is a need for more social rented homes in their area, with renters and those aged 55-74 expressing the strongest views.
David Orr, Chair of the Clarion Housing Association Board, said:
"This report goes beyond merely assessing the relationship between residents and their housing providers; it focuses on residents’ lived experiences and the services they need now and in the future. It is also testament to the power of collaboration in the housing sector. By listening to our residents and sharing insights, we can better understand the challenges they face and work together to deliver meaningful change."
Suzanne Brown, Executive Director of Operations at LiveWest, added:
“The SHARE project has been a great opportunity for Clarion and LiveWest to come together and gain a clearer picture of social housing residents across the country. It has allowed us to learn more about our residents, both social renters and shared owners, to better understand their needs, and measure which initiatives are having the greatest impact. These insights will help us continue to shape services that truly meet their needs and support their wellbeing.”
To find out more or get involved in the SHARE project, contact shareproject@clarionhg.com.