Welcome to Issue 82 of the CT Brief. 2026 brings hope of renewed focus on some of the most pressing social and economic challenges facing the UK, with housing emerging as a key priority.

The Plan to End Homelessness has been published and sets a clear direction for tackling homelessness and rough sleeping that local authorities, housing providers and partners can unite behind. There are positive elements, including the recognition that no one leaving a statutory institution such as hospital or prison should be released into homelessness, and the emphasis on multi-agency and multi-departmental partnerships to address multiple disadvantage and its impact on homelessness.

The MHCLG has also published its January 2026 progress update, Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing, addressing rent convergence and borrowing powers for housing development, alongside updates on key areas such as building safety. MHCLG has also just published further guidance on the Supported Housing Regulatory Oversight Act 2023, setting the framework for local supported housing strategies and needs assessments. This should create a clearer understanding of need and be a useful foundation for the introduction of quality standards and licensing. While necessary, these measures must not create additional cost and time burdens.

The Renters Reform Act will be implemented, and we are also imminently awaiting the Housing Strategy. With the direction now set, the sector is ready to play its part in tackling homelessness, rough sleeping and the shortage of much-needed housing. Alongside a continued focus on poverty and the cost of living, this may provide the kick-start needed to begin creating a more dignified life for everyone in the UK. We are hopeful that, with clarity of purpose, the sector will work together to deliver the changes required.

In this issue, we explore these themes through a wide-ranging collection of articles. We examine governance and regulation, including a deep dive into the updated Charity Code of Governance, alongside discussions on responding to racist activity and tackling the stigma surrounding social housing. The edition also considers how housing policy affects people at different stages of life and across communities, from older people’s housing and the impact of reform on children, to education and community regeneration. We look ahead with predictions for 2026, while highlighting the importance of care, partnership and practical action through features on housing, care and support.