Houseproud logo, with a keyhole filled with a rainbow and the words HouseProud

SNG commits to the Houseproud Pledge

• 2 min read

​SNG (Sovereign Network Group) has committed to the Houseproud Pledge, continuing the work of its predecessor organisations.

The Houseproud Pledge offers a means for all social housing providers, including housing associations and local authorities to affirm their dedication to LGBTQ+ resident equality and assistance.

Developed collaboratively by Houseproud and the University of Surrey, alongside residents, staff and industry leaders, this initiative aims to address the concerns highlighted by the 2017 No Place Like Home? study, the largest investigation ever conducted into LGBTQ+ experiences within social housing.

For many LGBTQ+ residents, the concept of home is especially important; a good home is a safe place where anyone can openly express their sexual orientation and/or gender identity without fear.

LGBTQ+ individuals still report prejudice in certain aspects of their lives, including housing. Research shows that 60 per cent of transgender respondents said they felt unsafe in their neighbourhoods, and one in five gay men said they had altered aspects of their home (such as rearranging pictures or books) to hide their identity from tradesmen or housing officials. Additionally, a third of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their housing providers' ability to address issues such as harassment effectively.

The Houseproud Pledge offers a framework for landlords to work with engaged residents to take action and demonstrate their commitment to LGBTQ+ equality and support. Many housing providers already work with LGBTQ+ involved residents and committing to the scheme offers recognition for this. 

By committing to this pledge, SNG demonstrates a strong dedication to fostering safe, comfortable, and inclusive homes and neighbourhoods for all residents. Together we will support tenants and communities as a whole by backing initiatives to promote quality housing and community development as well as a range of other benefits, including tenant satisfaction, community engagement and cost savings.