Improving population health through better social housing: a critical commentary

Introduction With many homes failing to meet minimum housing standards, concerns have been raised about the effects on peoples’ physical and mental health. Cold and damp homes are a particular hazard. The effects of growing austerity and poverty have increased the impact on individuals and the wider society. Given that those affected by poor housing tend to be the most socially deprived, any harms and health inequalities are accentuated. Recognising the health, social and economic consequences of poor housing, governments have implemented policies and provided funding to improve the standards of homes. Retrofitting homes with warmth-related improvements is thought to improve peoples’ health and wellbeing, promote social cohesion and benefit economic growth. It is less certain if the costs of retrofitting homes are a good use of scarce funds.Methods Using recognised guidance, this commentary critically appraises an economic evaluation of the costs and benefits of improving social housing, assessing the implications for future practice.Results Despite uncertainties that remain in terms of the cost-effectiveness of retrofitting homes, benefits to people’s health and wellbeing, as well as cost-savings to households and the NHS are evident.Discussion Such initiatives should be continued, accompanied by high quality research into their costs and benefits.