Housing ‘Race’ and Community Cohesion

Housing, ‘Race’ and Community Cohesion
Malcolm Harrison et al, Chartered Institute of Housing
ISBN: 1903208211,
£25

STAR RATING: 5/5

Harrison et al have put together a fine publication for anyone interested in housing services for ethnic minorities, writes Kishor Patel. The 11 essays are well-researched and written accessibly. Chapters include concluding paragraphs and highlighter boxes for easy dipping.

The chapter on law and regulations summarises the key pieces of legislation in the area of race and the impact on housing policy and services.

I found the voices of black men and women in Bradford very informative. Those new to this field will find the potted history of the developments that have fed present-day initiatives and informed national and local social housing policy particularly useful.

The chronology of important dates and legislation, activities and world events regarding refugees and asylum seekers is an excellent way to show important information.

I felt the authors baulked at reminding us that in 15 years’ time asylum seekers and refugees from Eastern Europe will have “disappeared” into mainstream British society by changing their accents and names while black people don’t have that choice.

So there are long-term service delivery implications that need to be addressed by policy-makers. A book to keep for future reference.

Dr Kishor Patel is senior consultant and trainer in equality and diversity at PlainSpeak