A coalition of leading housing groups have launched an unprecedented attack on the government for "falling well short" of tackling Britain's homes crisis.

In their second Housing Report, the National Housing Federation, Shelter and The Chartered Institute of Housing say "things are getting worse" with housing provision.

They warn over-crowding is continuing to climb, as well as a "deeply troubling" increase in homelessness and the government is failing to deliver or making no progress on 8 out of 10 key housing indicators

However the report said home owners had "benefited considerably" from current low interest rates.

Shelter's director of communications, policy and campaigns Kay Boycott criticised the government's record on housing was "pretty bleak."
 
“This government has had two years to start delivering on housing, yet this report paints a pretty bleak picture of its current record on housing in all its forms.  We must now see progress made on the commitments outlined in November’s Housing Strategy and bolder action taken to make sure families across the country can find a decent place to call home.”

While chief executive of the National Housing Federation David Orr warned "much more" needs to be done.

Shadow housing minister Jack Dromey accused the government of "failing" on housing.

"Housebuilding is down, homelessness is up and rents are increasingly unaffordable. The deterioration in outcomes outlined in this report show this out of touch Government still isn’t listening. They’re failing to help the young couples who can’t get on the housing ladder. They’re failing those families struggling with high rents in the private rented sector and the millions on waiting lists. And they’re failing the increasing number of people sleeping on our streets."

But housing minister Grant Shapps said the report showed "real progress" - however he acknowledged there was a "long way to go."

"We have made real progress and I am pleased that this is recognised by a number of 'green' and 'amber' lights in the report, but I am under no illusions that we still have a long way to go. That is why we are continually striving to introduce measures to help those in need.

"I am determined to ensure support is available to those not wanting to buy, which is why I want councils to use the full range of powers at their disposal to help those at risk of homelessness.

"Far from rents rising, we have seen a real terms fall in private rents and I want to see councils using the powers that they already have to tackle the small minority of rogue landlords.

"And for the Government's part, I'm sure these housing organisations will welcome our Affordable Homes Programme which is set to exceed expectations and deliver up to 170,000 affordable homes, and a £1.3billion investment to get Britain building."