- Conference
- 2025 National Black Members' Conference
- Date
- 7 September 2024
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes, that Black people face significant challenges in accessing suitable and affordable housing due to systemic barriers and discrimination. These issues are deeply rooted in society and disproportionately affect Black communities, leading to limited access to safe and affordable housing, which in turn has a serious impact on mental health and well-being.
Research shows that the lack of stable housing contributes to increased stress, anxiety, and depression among Black people, worsening existing mental health disparities. The inadequate provision of accessible and affordable housing options often results in homelessness, social exclusion, and further marginalisation, which severely impacts overall well-being and quality of life.
Conference, also notes that ‘No Fault Evictions’ exacerbate these issues, making it difficult for Black individuals to find suitable accommodation, adding significant stress and time burdens.
Conference believes, that by addressing these housing barriers and their mental health impacts, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive community. It is essential to prioritise the well-being and rights of marginalised populations to ensure access to safe, stable housing and the necessary support for thriving communities.
Conference calls on the National Black Members Committee to work with other relevant parts of the union including the local government service group to raise awareness of the housing crisis and its impact on Black people.
And highlight the following areas as a formula for future discussion to support the inequality that exist
1)Explore how the government can conduct a comprehensive review of current housing policies and programs to assess their effectiveness in meeting the unique needs of Black communities.
2)Explore how the government can formally recognise and address the systemic barriers to housing faced by Black people.
3)Encourage Local Authorities to prioritise anti-racist and anti-ableist practices in housing allocation to ensure fair and equitable access for Black individuals.
4)Increase awareness of the mental health impacts of housing discrimination and instability on Black communities.
5)Advocate for policies and initiatives that address housing inequities and provide mental health support for those affected.
6)Explore the current housing policies and practices to identify and address racial disparities
