Today, we are launching our 2026 manifesto for the Senedd elections, calling on political parties and future Government leaders to make a firm commitment to ensuring that every person in Wales has the right to a good home.
Tai Pawb is the leading charity advancing equality and social justice in housing. Marking our 20th anniversary in 2025, we have a long history of championing progressive housing policies and amplifying the voices of people at the sharp end of the housing crisis.
Our manifesto sets out three core asks, grounded in robust research, meaningful engagement, and lived experience:
- Right to a Good Home: Pass legislation enshrining a legal right to adequate housing for all people in Wales.
- Homes for All: Increase funding for social and affordable housing to meet diverse and growing needs.
- Equality at the Core: Place equality, inclusion, and lived experience at the heart of all housing policy.
Right to a Good Home: A ‘Welsh Solution’
Tai Pawb, alongside its Back the Bill campaign partners, CIH Cymru and Shelter Cymru, believes housing deserves its “big bang moment,” akin to the creation of the NHS. A right to a good home for all, would not only enshrine a fundamental social principle – supported by 77% of the public and a majority of Housing Association Chief Executives – but also generate substantial economic benefits. Current poor housing, which disproportionally affects underserved communities, is not only morally wrong. It also costs the NHS £95 million annually and £1 billion to the Welsh economy. A legal right to adequate housing could save an estimated £5 billion over 30 years while improving health, reducing poverty, and boosting the economy.
Homes for All: Building Accessible, Affordable, and High-Quality Homes
Wales is facing a housing emergency. Over 90,000 households are on social housing waiting lists, according to Shelter Cymru, and many existing homes fail to meet accessibility or quality standards. Tai Pawb calls for:
- More accessible homes to meet the needs of an ageing and diverse population
- Temporary accommodation that caters to a wide range of needs
- Additional support for people to maintain their homes
- Investment in social housing that is free from damp and mould
- Decarbonisation that advances equity and benefits all communities
“Building more homes is essential, but they must be the right homes – accessible, sustainable, and above all- affordable – so that everyone, especially those most at risk of poverty or poor health, can live with dignity and security.” – Alicja Zalesinska, CEO, Tai Pawb
Equality at the Core: Learning from Lived Experience
Our manifesto stresses that tackling inequality requires listening to those directly affected. Older people, disabled people, young LGBTQ+ individuals, and minoritised ethnic communities face disproportionate risks of poor housing, homelessness, and poverty. Placing lived experience at the centre of policy-making ensures that Wales continues to be a progressive, welcoming society that cares for all.
With 11% of Wales’ carbon emissions coming from housing, decarbonisation efforts must also address inequality while upgrading homes to modern energy standards. Tai Pawb’s approach aligns environmental and social justice priorities to create fairer, healthier communities.
“Centering equality is more important than ever in these challenging times,” said Alicja. “Equality isn’t about “others”—it’s about you, me, our friends, colleagues, and neighbours. It shapes the communities we live in and the opportunities we all have. This election, we urge all organisations to put equality and social justice at the heart of their asks.”
A Legacy of Impact Through Partnership
Over the current Senedd term, Tai Pawb has influenced 100+ policy changes with direct impact on improving the quality of housing and housing services for all, with particular focus on underserved groups. We engaged 800+ people with lived experience who helped us shape and make the solutions. We contributed to 30+ consultations, and supported 350+ organisations and individuals through training, advice, and consultancy, leading to lasting changes across many housing organisations.
“Our manifesto is more than a policy document. It’s a call to action: Wales has the opportunity to lead the way and re-new its commitment to our fundamental values like equality and social justice. By placing those at the heart of housing policy, we can ensure that everyone has a safe, suitable, and affordable home.” – Alicja Zalensinska, CEO, Tai Pawb
Download the manifesto in English or Welsh below:
English – Tai Pawb manifesto – PDF
English – Tai Pawb manifesto – Word (accessible)
Cymraeg – Maniffesto Tai Pawb – PDF
Cymraeg – Maniffesto Tai Pawb – Word
About Tai Pawb
Tai Pawb is a Welsh charity working to advance equality and social justice in housing. With a membership spanning housing associations, local authorities, and support organisations, Tai Pawb provides advice, training, and support to ensure housing is safe, suitable, and affordable for everyone.
For further information or interview requests, please contact:
info@taipawb.org
029 2053 7637