The chief executive of the Generation Rent activist group has stood down, giving a final message to supporters on the LinkedIn site.
Ben Twomey – who became director of Generation Rent three years ago before his title was upgraded to chief executive – left the organisation earlier this month.
He says online: “When I took on this role, I did so as a renter who knew first-hand what it feels like to live with insecurity and uncertainty.
“Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking in the media, in parliaments and across the country to help make the case that everyone who rents needs a secure, decent and affordable place to call home.
“I’m incredibly proud that together we secured an end to Section 21 no-fault evictions in England, and stood up for renters everywhere in the UK.
“Among a great many highlights, the fact that renters in England can no longer be kicked out with just two months’ notice and no reason given, is a game-changer. It was a leading cause of homelessness and it feels incredible to know those evictions are now rightly consigned to the dustbin of history.”
He says these achievements must be shared with “an exceptional team, an engaged board, brilliant funders, countless pro-renter organisations, supportive policymakers, journalists who amplified renter voices, and most importantly the thousands of renters who trusted us with their stories”.
He concludes: “The fight for decent homes isn’t over, but I leave knowing our movement is stronger than ever. As I finish this chapter, Generation Rent’s staff mantra is ringing in my ears loud and clear, and it feels more hopeful than ever: Renting can, must and will get better.”
The post is reported to pay £68,000 per year and his successor has not yet been named.
