The Poppy Factory is carrying out a limited review of a small number of privately rented homes on its residential estate in Richmond upon Thames. Over time, some of these rents have fallen significantly below local market levels.
We are a national employment charity supporting veterans with health conditions and their families. Income from our private rented homes helps fund this vital work. No veterans or beneficiaries are affected by this review, and all subsidised housing remains unchanged.
We recognise that any discussion about rent can be sensitive. That is why this review is being carried out carefully and thoughtfully, with a strong focus on fairness, transparency and individual circumstances. Our priority is to work with each tenant to find a practical and reasonable way forward. Consultation is ongoing.
As a registered charity, we have a legal responsibility to manage our resources in a way that supports our long-term mission. In some cases, rents have not kept pace with the local market for many years, which is no longer sustainable.
Each proposed rent has been assessed individually using three independent professional assessments. We have shared this approach openly with tenants and have taken property condition into account. Independent inspections have also been offered where concerns have been raised.
All affected tenants have been contacted directly and offered one-to-one meetings. We extended the consultation period to allow time for meaningful discussion, and tenants have been encouraged to bring a union representative or advisor if they wish.
We understand that increases in housing costs can be challenging. We are working closely with tenants to understand their situations, explore what support may be available, and, where possible, reduce the impact of any changes.
If a tenant may need to move, we are offering practical support to help them consider their options. In a small number of cases, formal notices may be issued if agreement cannot be reached after consultation, but this does not end discussion and does not mean that moving out is inevitable.
Income from our residential estate plays an important role in funding employment support for veterans and their families across England and Wales. Ensuring this income remains sustainable helps us continue delivering that support to those who need it most.
Any tenant who would like to discuss how the private rent review affects them should contact info@poppyfactory.org