Housing conference to explore the role of policy in tackling inequality

The potential impact of greater lawmaking powers for Wales and how housing policy can help tackle inequality are among the themes to be explored at Crossroads, Shelter Cymru’s annual conference this summer.

The conference, which takes place at the Village Hotel, Swansea on 1 – 2 July, has attracted a wide range of speakers including Jocelyn Davies, Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration, Josh Ryan Collins from the New Economic Foundation, Jon Fitzmaurice from Agents for Change and Freek Spinnevijn, director of FEANTSA (the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless).

John Puzey, director of Shelter Cymru, said: “Our annual conferences always aim to examine housing and homelessness in the context of the wider social, political and economic climate, so events this year have certainly given us plenty to work with.

“The continuing fall-out from the recession, the failure of the housing LCO at the last hurdle, a new government in Westminster, impending cuts in public spending and a potential referendum on increased powers for the Assembly – these are just a few of the issues that are having an impact on housing in Wales.

“We see this year as a real crossroads for housing and homelessness policy in Wales. After 10 years of devolved government, Wales is more confident in setting new policy directions. Now, we want to make the case for bold change within the legal, policy and service frameworks to tackle housing need and build sustainable communities where people want to live.”

Poorly funded organisations are eligible for a discount and a limited number of bursaries are available. For further information, visit www.sheltercymru.org.uk or contact the events team on 01792 483079 or [email protected]

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