The Senedd election in 2026 comes against the backdrop of a deepening housing emergency in Wales. The visible consequences of this being rising levels of homelessness and increasing demand for social housing and a lack of affordable homes in the private rented sector.
Wales needs a sustainable housing system which supports a circular economy agenda, ensuring everyone can access a safe, suitable and affordable home, an equitable housing system where stigma is eradicated, and a housing workforce which is valued.
To do this housing should be a foundation mission of government with the starting point being the incorporation of the right to adequate housing into Welsh law. A rights-based approach will drive a systemwide change to housing in Wales that will transcend political cycles, providing for this and future generations. Incorporation of the right into Welsh law will act as the catalyst that will deliver a Wales where everyone can access a safe, suitable and affordable home.
CIH Cymru calls for the next Welsh government to commit to the following:
In order to help our members engage with their local candidates for the Senedd elections we have also developed some pledge cards that you can print out to use. These additional resources will continue to be added to as we draw closer to the election.