YMCA Response to the Chancellors Budget 2026

Denise Hatton, Chief Executive of YMCA England & Wales, said:

“While the additional investment announced today in social and affordable housing in England is undoubtably welcome progress, for young people facing unaffordable rents or struggling to leave homelessness behind, its success will depend on whether it delivers homes they can actually access and afford.

“The additional £1.5 billion dedicated to prioritising Social Rent offers a much needed opportunity to increase the supply of genuinely affordable homes. With that, young people must be explicitly considered in how these homes are planned and allocated, including those ready to move on from supported accommodation but unable to find somewhere affordable.

“Increased funding to help people end rough sleeping is warmly welcomed, however the Government’s review of homelessness funding must also address the needs of young people in temporary and supported accommodation, alongside preventing homelessness before someone reaches the streets.

“At YMCA, we see how a safe home gives young people the stability they need to continue their education, find work and look after their wellbeing. We also see why a home alone is not always enough. Investment in buildings must be matched by reliable funding for the support that helps people rebuild confidence, manage a tenancy and sustain their independence.

“The previously announced changes to Housing Benefit earnings rules are an important step towards reducing the financial penalties some supported housing residents face when they work more hours. Access to employment and a secure home should reinforce each other.

“We note that this budget has not continued the recent trend of a differential increase in the minimum wage for young workers as part of a wider policy commitment to equalising national minimum wage levels. We would welcome a reaffirmation from Government of this policy commitment and a clearer timeline commitment in terms of when it will be achieved.

“Through our Building Futures campaign, YMCA is working towards a bold ambition of creating 10,000 new homes for young people. We urge Government to recognise young people explicitly in housing needs assessments and make funding more accessible to providers delivering genuinely affordable homes. These changes would help turn investment into a practical route to independence and a long-term solution for generations.”