Housing Crisis Stories: Voices From Those Who Lived It

A housing worker’s personal journey through social housing highlights the urgent need to share first-hand experiences of the housing crisis. Rachel Lartey, a Housing Manager at Clúid, reflects on her childhood struggles with housing, emphasizing the importance of hearing the stories of individuals affected by ongoing housing insecurity.

Lartey began her career in social housing in 1999 in Manchester. She quickly realized that her own experiences shaped not only her career but also her identity. In 1984, her father relocated from Cork to London with Lartey and her three siblings, then aged between nine and 13. As a single father, he faced significant challenges, especially after their initial accommodation arrangement fell through, leaving the family homeless.

Initially housed in emergency Bed & Breakfast accommodation in Waterloo, Lartey’s family struggled for nine months. Her father’s attempts to secure social housing were complicated by the fact that he owned a house in Ireland, which he could not access due to legal restrictions. Despite the hardships, the family eventually received keys to a small social housing flat near East Street market in South East London. This moment marked a turning point, allowing them to establish stability and a sense of home.

Reflecting on these formative experiences, Lartey has dedicated her career to amplifying the voices of those affected by housing insecurity. In the context of the current housing crisis, which dominates headlines in Ireland, she advocates for the recognition of long-term housing insecurity’s impact on individuals and families.

Clúid, as a not-for-profit organization, understands the importance of providing not only homes but also supportive communities. Lartey emphasizes the joy of handing keys to new residents, a moment that symbolizes security and hope. The organization’s Changing Perceptions project arose from Lartey’s conversations with residents, capturing their life stories through reminiscence workshops.

For instance, participants shared diverse narratives that reflect their unique experiences. Eileen recounted her emigration to New York as a child, detailing her adjustment to a new culture. Colm spoke of his family’s musical legacy and his travels with the Up With People group. Other residents, including Claudia and Denise, shared stories that illuminated their rich lives, challenging stereotypes and the stigma often associated with social housing.

One notable initiative, the Elsie Black Oral Histories Project, focused on capturing the experiences of older residents through recorded interviews. By positioning residents as storytellers, the project fostered a sense of pride and belonging while dismantling negative assumptions about ageing and social housing.

Lartey’s experiences have reinforced the notion that building cohesive communities is vital. These communities not only offer support but also empower residents to take charge of their narratives. Clúid is a member of the Housing Alliance, a coalition dedicated to providing homes and supportive environments for those in need.

While the urgent demand for new housing continues, Lartey stresses that the need for community development should not be overlooked. Sharing personal housing stories can inspire empathy and understanding, ultimately driving positive change. By documenting these experiences, Clúid aims to challenge misconceptions about social housing and highlight the resilience of its residents.

Housing stories have the potential to promote understanding and foster connections within communities. As Lartey notes, the narratives of those who have experienced homelessness or housing difficulties can serve as powerful tools for change. Engaging with these stories invites society to recognize the humanity behind housing statistics and to appreciate the diverse lives led by residents.

Through her work at Clúid, Rachel Lartey exemplifies the impact of lived experiences in addressing the ongoing housing crisis. By prioritizing the voices of those affected, organizations can not only inform public discourse but also contribute to a more empathetic and supportive society.