Homeless Link responds to Panorama’s ‘Big Housing Rip-off’

20 Oct 2026 11:10 AM

On 19 October BBC’s Panorama programme broadcast an episode focused on rogue landlords accused of exploiting supported housing residents by providing minimal or no support services, while claiming high levels of rent through Enhanced Housing Benefit.

Commenting on the programme, Homeless Link CEO Rick Henderson said

“The exploitation of people recovering from homelessness and other serious issues documented in Panorama’s ‘The Big Housing Rip Off’ is unacceptable. It showcases how bad actors have taken advantage of loopholes in the Housing Benefit system and offers a clear reminder of why we need effective and timely implementation of the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023.”

“Hundreds of our members provide high-quality supported housing, which plays a critical role in helping people rebuild their lives and recover from homelessness. But, as we have outlined in our policy and campaigning work for many years, the current funding model is inefficient and open to abuse by bad actors.”

“The incoming regulations can play a role in addressing this, and we will be responding to the Government’s recently announced consultation.”

“But what is also needed is a more sustainable, coordinated funding system that rewards and enables high-quality support rather than incentivising profit. The Treasury’s upcoming value-for-money review of homelessness spending is an opportunity to press reset on how the supported housing system is designed and funded. Through this, we can shift away from a model which too often fails both residents and the excellent support staff working in supporting housing across the country.”