UPDATE: A severe housing crisis in Northumberland is forcing individuals in emotionally abusive relationships to remain in unsafe environments, according to urgent warnings from local officials. Coun Georgina Hill, chair of the Northumberland County Council’s health and wellbeing scrutiny committee, reports a troubling rise in cases where victims feel they have no choice but to stay with their abuser to avoid homelessness.
As of December 2025, there are approximately 12,000 people on the council’s housing list, highlighting a critical shortage of available housing. Coun Hill emphasized that the situation is dire: “All roads lead to the housing crisis that we are in. I just fear that, because of the failures of successive Governments, there isn’t enough housing and it’s so difficult.”
The council has recently announced plans to modify its housing list criteria, aiming to streamline access to social housing. However, Coun Hill argues these measures will not suffice in addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable individuals. “I am aware of people in emotionally abusive relationships who are trapped because they think that while it’s awful being in that abusive relationship, there’s probably one thing worse and that’s not having a roof over their head,” she stated.
In response to these alarming conditions, Northumberland County Council plans to tighten the local connection criteria for housing applications. Only those with verified ties to the area will be eligible for the housing register, and Band 3 applicants, the lowest priority, will be removed. These changes are intended to prioritize individuals with genuine housing needs, particularly those unable to secure accommodation in the private rental market or through homeownership.
The council has allocated £45 million in its Medium-Term Financial Plan up to 2026/27 to develop more affordable housing. Since 2017, the council has successfully built over 1,700 affordable homes and has received planning permission for an additional 1,369 homes, aiming to create over 3,000 new affordable homes in the region.
Coun Colin Horncastle, Cabinet Member for Housing, stressed the need for these changes, remarking, “The updated policy will ensure that available homes are always prioritised for people who already live here or have a strong and demonstrated connection to Northumberland.” This move aims to ensure fair allocation of social housing, focusing on those in the most critical need.
However, the council acknowledges that the number of available council homes has decreased due to national policies like Right to Buy. As demand for affordable housing continues to rise, the council admits it is a challenge to meet the urgent needs of residents, especially those at risk from domestic abuse.
With these developments unfolding, the urgency of the housing crisis in Northumberland is palpable. The implications for individuals in abusive situations are dire, as many may feel compelled to stay in harmful environments rather than face the uncertainty of homelessness.
The situation is evolving rapidly, and residents are encouraged to stay informed about the council’s actions and housing policies. As authorities work to address these pressing issues, the community is reminded of the importance of adequate housing in safeguarding vulnerable populations.
This urgent crisis demands immediate attention and action from both local and national leaders. As the situation develops, it is crucial for stakeholders to collaborate in finding sustainable solutions to ensure safety and stability for all residents.
