Discussing how housing can address inequality with young people  

Our Chief Executive Tracy Harrison, was part of a Q&A panel at the North East Youth Symposium. She listened to the views of young people and shared insight about the social housing sector and its role in creating positive change for the future.

The NE Youth Symposium aims to unite young people with decision-makers and sector leaders across the North East. It’s a forum to discuss issues such as poverty and inequality, community safety, physical and mental health, education and employment.

Tracy, who joined decision-makers, policy makers and funders from the region, participated in the poverty and inequality roundtable, sharing insights on the role of social housing in the North East. She discussed the part it plays in tackling child poverty and why good-quality, affordable, energy-efficient housing is important

The session looked at the work the social housing sector is doing to tackle inequalities for young people and how it is supporting individuals and communities.

Tracy Harrison, Chief Executive of Northern Housing Consortium said:

“It was an absolute pleasure – and very humbling – to attend the North East Youth Symposium and listen to the young people’s views. Many of the issues we heard about in our recent Pride in Place work came through strongly on the day: fragmented and patchy access to public services, absence of good quality green spaces, and a lack of voice and agency in decision-making being consistent themes.

“Making sure there is enough high-quality and affordable housing will remain the single most important thing that we can do as a sector to address poverty and inequality in the North. It’s been great to highlight and discuss those issues with attendees. It’s our job to keep promoting the important role housing plays in shaping young peoples’ futures.  We must make sure that politicians and government recognise that too.”