Empty Buildings – Social Housing Wirral

Published by Esmee Hauge

The UK is facing a housing crisis, and here on the Wirral, the effects are clear.

More than 5,200 households are currently on Wirral’s social housing waiting list, while demand for affordable homes continues to outstrip supply. At the same time, the borough still has a significant number of long-term empty properties, particularly in parts of Birkenhead, where buildings that could contribute to thriving neighbourhoods instead stand vacant.

At YMCA Wirral, we see the human impact of this every day. Residents arrive at our hostel during the most difficult periods of their lives. With the right support, many make remarkable progress, improving health, rebuilding relationships, developing skills and preparing for independent living. Yet too often, that progress slows not because people aren’t ready to move on, but because suitable, affordable housing simply is not yet available. We consistently run at full capacity – come rain or shine.

Reducing this bottleneck phenomenon is one of the biggest challenges facing homelessness services. Every person unable to move into permanent accommodation is someone whose recovery is delayed, while another person in crisis waits longer for the emergency support they urgently need.

The Solution

That is why YMCA Wirral is proud to support the Empty Buildings in Wirral Campaign, initated by Wirral Foodbank. The campaign is bringing together Wirral residents, charities, housing providers, councillors, MPs and local organisations to explore how vacant buildings across the borough could be brought back into productive use.

Bringing empty buildings back into use will not solve the housing crisis on its own. However, it represents a practical opportunity to increase the supply of homes, regenerate neglected parts of the borough and reduce pressure on existing housing stock. Every additional home created has the potential to help someone move on from temporary accommodation, freeing up support for those facing homelessness in the future.

This campaign will only succeed through collective action. Whether you are a resident, landlord, business owner, housing association, councillor or simply someone who cares about the future of the Wirral, your voice matters.

Together, we can demonstrate that there is strong local support for making better use of the buildings and resources we already have. Creating homes, strengthening communities and helping more people build stable, independent futures is a goal within reach.

Want to get involved?