Step by Step Golf Day 2026
20 July 2026
News
The Renters’ Rights Act came into effect on 1st May, designed to make the rental market fairer for tenants across England. However, we believe these reforms will do little to benefit young people at most risk of homelessness, who cannot access the private rental sector in the first place.
Age discrimination and financial barriers mean young people are effectively shut out of the housing market before the new protections can apply.
Research published earlier this year by the EveryYouth Network – of which Step by Step is a partner charity – found that 77% of youth homelessness charities across England reported discrimination against young people by private landlords in the past 12 months. The most common barriers were the absence of a family guarantor and income level, even where young people could afford the rent.
Debbie Moreton, Chief Executive of Step by Step, commented: “This legislation was meant to make renting fairer, and for many people it will. But for the young people we support in Southampton, the problem isn’t what happens once they’re in a tenancy. It’s that no one will give them one. Age, no guarantor, an unfamiliar address: these are the barriers that keep young people locked out, and the Act doesn’t touch any of them.”
Step by Step remain committed to working alongside partners, policymakers, and communities to address the root causes of youth homelessness. While we welcome the renewed focus on fairness and stability within the housing system, the Renters’ Right Act will do little to support vulnerable young people already shut out of the private rental sector.
We will continue to share insight, advocate for young people, and champion solutions that enable them to thrive.
To explore more of our work and perspectives, visit our News and In Action sections.
Foster Care Fortnight is the UK’s biggest annual campaign to raise awareness of fostering, bringing together fostering services, carers, and communities to highlight the life changing impact fostering can have.
It's the perfect time to explore fostering with Step by Step - the unique not-for-profit fostering agency that gives back.
