The Government have provided a detailed overview of affordable housing supply statistics in England, emphasizing the roles of different organizations and the nature of the data collected.

It can be seen here, and a breakdown of the key points:

Understanding Affordable Housing

Affordable housing is aimed at individuals and households whose needs are not adequately met by the open market. It encompasses various tenures, such as:

• Social Rent: Rent typically set at around 50% of local market rents.
• Affordable Rent: Rent up to 80% of local market rents.
• Shared Ownership: A part-buy, part-rent scheme.

It can include both:

• Newly built properties.
• Existing private sector properties repurposed as affordable homes.

Statistics on Affordable Housing Supply in England

Annual Publications by MHCLG

• The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) releases annual statistics on the gross supply of affordable homes, typically in November or December.
• The data includes:
  • New builds.
  • Acquisitions from the private sector.
• Exclusions: Losses (e.g., through demolitions or sales) are not accounted for.
• Revisions occur in June each year.

Homes England Statistics

• Published biannually (in June and November).
• Focus on affordable homes delivered specifically through Homes England programmes.
• These statistics differ from MHCLG’s comprehensive reports:
  • Homes England covers housing delivered through its initiatives.
  • MHCLG provides a broader picture, including other funding mechanisms.
• Majority of affordable housing supply comes through Homes England.

Greater London Authority (GLA) Statistics

• Since April 2012, the GLA oversees housing in London, including affordable housing starts and completions.
• Homes England no longer includes London in its statistics, with the GLA taking full responsibility for the region.

Combined Statistics

• MHCLG combines data from both Homes England and GLA for national reporting.
• Combined statistics, including starts and completions, are available in live table 1012 and are updated every six months.

Key Data Tables

• Live Table 1012: Comprehensive data on starts and completions under affordable housing programmes, combining Homes England and GLA figures.
• Statistical Bulletins: Released annually to provide insights into affordable housing trends.

This framework ensures transparency and provides stakeholders with a clear understanding of affordable housing delivery in England.