Who is affected?
Older people, disabled people, families with young children, and anyone who may face mobility challenges — now or in the future — are all affected by inaccessible housing. Every year, thousands of new homes are built in the UK that cannot support people who use wheelchairs, need wider doorways, or require step-free access. This leaves many forced into unsuitable homes, unable to live safely or independently.

What is at stake?
When new homes are not built to higher accessibility standards (M4(2)), people face greater risks of falls, injuries, and social isolation. Families spend huge sums on costly adaptations or are pushed into care homes, which can cost over £60,000 per year. Meanwhile, the NHS and social care systems bear higher costs for avoidable accidents and long-term support. Accessible, adaptable housing means more people can remain in their own homes, maintain independence, and live with dignity.

Why is now the time to act?
In 2022, the government announced plans to raise the minimum standard for new homes to M4(2). Despite strong public and expert support, progress has stalled — and since then, over 300,000 homes have been built without these essential features. Each month of delay means another 13,000 homes that fail future generations. The estimated cost to build to M4(2) is just £1,400 per home — a small price to protect people’s safety and independence for decades to come. We cannot afford to wait any longer.

We urge the UK Government and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to immediately mandate M4(2) as the minimum standard for all new homes, with rare, clearly justified exceptions only.

Housing should be a foundation for life, not a barrier. Act now to make every new home accessible for everyone.