Tonic Housing becomes UK's first LGBTQ+ registered Housing Association
– 2 min read
Tonic Housing has officially become a Registered Provider of Social Housing, making it the UK’s first LGBTQ+ specific housing association.
This milestone represents a major step forward in Tonic’s mission to create "inclusive, affirming retirement communities where older LGBTQ+ people can live with the security, dignity and pride they deserve".
As a Registered Provider, Tonic can now expand its impact by directly delivering social and affordable homes and accessing new development, investment, and partnership opportunities. This status is a springboard for growth, enabling Tonic to meet what it calls the "urgent and growing demand" for housing that affirms and supports older LGBTQ+ people across the UK.
TERRY STACY MBE, CHAIR OF TONIC HOUSING, SAID:
"Tonic is incredibly proud of this landmark achievement as the UK's first LGBTQ+ Registered Provider of Social Housing - this is a turning point for LGBTQ+ housing in the UK. It gives Tonic the platform to grow a new model of later-life living, where older LGBTQ+ people can age not just with safety and support, but with pride, purpose and visibility.
"This is a testament to the unwavering vision and commitment of Tonic's Staff, Board and Community Panel, ever since the organisation was founded in 2014. We particularly acknowledge the work of Anna Kear, our former CEO. Anna's dedication meant we were able to reach this milestone and we are incredibly grateful for her contributions to Tonic's legacy.
"We look forward to using our new status as a Registered Provider to meet the housing needs of more older LGBTQ+ people, especially those from intersectional marginalised backgrounds. Our vision is bold: a future where LGBTQ+ affirming housing is no longer the exception but a normal part of communities across the country.”
Tonic’s recent Precarious Lives report revealed the severe financial hardship, isolation and health inequalities facing older LGBTQ+ people in London - challenging the myth of the ‘affluent gay retiree’.
The organisation added in a release: "With high rates of poverty, disability and limited support networks, the need for LGBTQ+ affirming, affordable housing is clear. Becoming a Registered Provider enables [us] to meet this need at scale; delivering homes that offer not just safety, but dignity and belonging."
