Research suggests Manchester as one place people are most at risk of losing their home

New research released by Shelter today highlights the areas of England where people are most at risk of losing their home.

With 1 in every 111 homes at risk of eviction, those living in London, Manchester, Slough and Peterborough are shown to be most at risk

The report also shows that areas with high unemployment tend to be hit hardest by high eviction rates, news that comes just weeks after figures revealed the highest unemployment rate since 1996.

Shelter’s statistics analysed the risk of eviction by a landlord or mortgage lender for homes in local authorities across England.

Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said: ‘As Christmas approaches, this research paints a frightening picture of thousands of families living every day with the fear of losing their home hanging over their heads. It’s sobering to see that so many communities are blighted by the risk of eviction.

‘Shelter research shows that a third of people are already struggling with their housing costs or falling behind on payments. In these unforgiving conditions, it only takes one thing – illness, job loss or relationship breakdown – to lead to things spiralling out of control and into homelessness.’

Can Healey be correct over house possessions?

Home office minister John Healey has come under a greatdeal of criticism for his remarks about home repossessions but Jim Pickard agrees with him.

Do the tabloid hacks really believe that it’s better to remain in negative equity, struggling under the burden of high repayments to a lender, than to bail out and rent somewhere instead (often a cheaper option)?
Healey wasn’t saying that he didn’t care if repossessions soared. Instead he was making a statement of the obvious.