Record numbers of UK renters crowdfunding to cover bills
Summary
A record number of people in the UK are using crowdfunding websites like GoFundMe to raise money for rent and bills. Donations for rent support have increased by 60% since 2022, as many struggle with rising costs and housing insecurity.Key Facts
- More rent-related fundraisers were created on GoFundMe in April than any month before.
- Over 100,000 people each month donate to help others pay housing costs on the platform.
- Rent increases and lower incomes have forced many to seek public help or crowdfunding.
- More than 300,000 families a year in England and Wales apply to local councils for emergency housing grants.
- The number of rejected housing grant applications rose from 96,000 in 2021-22 to over 134,000 in 2023-24.
- Individuals like Andrew Foster and Nick Jardine turned to crowdfunding after rent hikes and eviction notices threatened their housing.
- Homelessness and the number of children in temporary housing in England have reached record highs.
- Crowdfunding donations sometimes prevent people from going further into debt or becoming homeless.
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