Challenging Social Stigma

From the language and phrases we use to our unconscious bias and stereotypes, stigma can show up and manifest in so many ways. It's a vast topic that brings with it many challenges and opportunities for change.?

Working in housing, it's painfully evident that the stigma associated with social housing isn't going away in a hurry. How have we come to a place where renting a home from a social landlord, something which 3.9 million households in England do, is often seen as different, perhaps even negative?

Social housing is too often assumed to be 'less than' other types of housing when it allows millions of people to live in safe, secure and decent homes. Social housing, affordable housing, however you decide to name it, is essentially a home. Do we need to start painting a different picture about what' home' truly means to us?

How can we challenge social stigma?

Let's be honest, the stigma surrounding social housing will not disappear overnight. But that doesn't mean we can't take steps to reduce it by raising awareness and implementing changes.?

There is a lot more to social housing than meets the eye. Understanding it and what it offers are essential first steps in breaking down stigma and helping to understand social housing's varying needs.??

Phraseology and language are so important. Let's really think about how we talk and address 'social housing', because essentially, it's about people and their home and these words and labels risk lending themselves and adding to society's expectations.

Collaboration is key. We need to work together to challenge the stigma and understand the real scope of social housing. And finally, we need to stop seeing social housing as a last resort.

Opening up the conversation?

Social stigma is a topic I've wanted to openly discuss for some time now. In my latest podcast episode, I was lucky enough to be joined by my colleague Roger Wilshaw, Director Neighbours - Places for People. We discussed the challenges of stigma in housing alongside our own experiences and hopes for the future.?

A big thank you to Roger for joining me and participating in this meaningful conversation; this is just the beginning; we need to keep talking, sharing and acting to challenge and break the stigma. If you get the chance, please have a listen, and I hope you too can start having similar conversations.?

You can listen to the entire conversation about 'Social Stigma' featuring my guest, Roger Wilshaw, in the latest episode of my #StylingItOutPodcast. Listen here: https://spoti.fi/3OgDznc

Keep styling it out.?

Debi