What does it mean to be in a housing crisis and why are we in one? How can it be solved? And what does it all have to do with homelessness? Well, it turns out that history is a great tool for answering those questions!

In this episode, we head back in time to hear about the history of housing in Britain over the last 150 years. We trace the rise and fall of council housing, take a look at squatting and housing activism in the 20th century, and ask – are there better ways to think about housing and homelessness in Britain today?

Want to get in touch? Please do! You can email the podcast at [email protected].

Click here for a transcript and information about the historical sources used in this episode: https://cutt.ly/9emVi8m7.

Writer, producer and narrator: Adela Davis.

Guests: Dr John Boughton, Dr Sam Burgum, Dr Becca Searle, Ross, Helen.

Cast: Ken, Gareth, Alice, Penny, Simon.

Cover art: Camilla Storvik.

Music & sound effects:

• Laura Metcalf | J. S. Bach: Cello Suite No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1008 I. Prélude | courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com.

Not sure what to do when you see someone sleeping rough? This article from The Big Issue has some helpful tips for how to start a conversation. And this article addresses the question of whether or not you should give money.

Use the StreetLink website (England and Wales) to connect the local council outreach team with someone who is sleeping rough. All you need is a location, time, and brief description of the person.

Want to find out about local services and volunteering in your area (England)? There is a great database here: https://homeless.org.uk/homeless-england/.

Donate to a charity (e.g. Caring in Bristol, Shelter or Crisis) or buy The Big Issue from a local vendor.

Sign a petition or write to your local MP.

Check out the work of the Museum of Homelessness.