Newly qualified nurses can’t afford to rent privately in almost half - 45% - of local authorities in England, according to new analysis from Shelter, which has called for massive investment in social housing.

It compared Government data on private and social rents with key worker salaries and found that London and the South East are worst affected, where average rent for a one-bed home is unaffordable to new nurses in 93% of local authorities.

Many other key workers are being priced out of their communities, says the charity, as private rented homes are unaffordable in 43% of England for new teachers and in 69% for healthcare assistants in the NHS.

In stark contrast, social rented homes are affordable in 100% of the country for NHS key workers and teachers.

Two thirds of key workers

Additional YouGov polling for Shelter also reveals that nearly two thirds - 1.5 million - of key workers who rent privately are struggling or behind on their rent.

Shelter is urging the Government to use its Spending Review in June to make a significant investment in social housing.

It reports that last year, the Government spent more than £11.7billion on housing benefit for private renters and £2.3billion on temporary accommodation - funding that could be better used to build social homes.

Polly Neate, of Shelter, said that without enough social housing, nurses, teachers, and other key workers are being priced out, making it harder for hospitals, schools, and local businesses to find and keep staff.

“Social homes are vital for the economy and the only lasting solution to the housing emergency, but there’s nowhere near enough of them,” added Neate.

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