19 February 2010
Social housing has been under attack from many quarters as it finds it more and more difficult to meet emerging needs and to play a core role in sustaining the London economy. This seminar was therefore held at an important time to examine both what is possible and what is desirable.
Chaired by LSE London associate Professor Emeritus Michael Harloe from the University of Salford, the purpose of the seminar was to bring together senior policy makers, local politicians, practitioners and academics to identify the current challenges facing social housing in London; to discuss the post election agenda; and to put forward future opportunities. The following distinguished speakers contributed with presentations in the same:
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Anne Power, LSE
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Mark Thomas, Shelter
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Christine Whitehead, LSE London
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Kate Davies, Chief Executive, Notting Hill Housing
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Genevieve Macklin, Head of Strategic Housing, Lewisham
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Gavin Smart, Assistant Director, National Housing Federation
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Nicky Gavron, London Assembly Member
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Dudley Mead, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, Croydon
The afternoon was divided into two sessions which took the new financial and political environment facing London as a common backdrop for discussion.
The first concentrated on the current issues and concerns about ensuring that the sector is fit for purpose and on the policy initiatives presently under discussion.
The second then looked at the views of local authorities and housing associations; and the third focused on the views of local politicians, clarifying feasible options and what might be best for the sector in the future.
The audience was able to interact through informed debate after each panel and a well concurred drinks reception followed.
For further details about this, please contact: lselondon@lse.ac.uk.