Ben Twomey has stepped down as Chief Executive of housing campaign group Generation Rent, bringing to an end a three-year leadership period during which the organisation played a prominent role in campaigning for stronger rights for private renters.
Twomey, who first joined Generation Rent as its Director before later becoming Chief Executive, announced his departure in a message shared on LinkedIn. Looking back on his time with the organisation, he reflected on the progress made in pushing rental reform higher up the political agenda and supporting tenants across England.
A Personal Mission
In his farewell message, Twomey explained that his own experience of renting inspired him to take on the role. Having experienced the uncertainty that many tenants face, he said he wanted to help create a private rented sector that offers greater security, affordability and higher housing standards.
Over the past three years, he has represented Generation Rent in interviews, parliamentary discussions and events across the country, campaigning for reforms designed to improve conditions for renters and encourage long-term changes within the private rented sector.
Ending Section 21
Twomey described the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions in England as one of the organisation’s biggest achievements during his time in charge.
The change means landlords can no longer evict tenants without providing a legal reason, replacing a system that housing campaigners argued contributed to housing insecurity and homelessness.
According to Twomey, removing Section 21 represents a significant step forward for renters, giving tenants greater protection and reducing the risk of losing their homes without warning.
A Collective Achievement
While highlighting the campaign’s successes, Twomey was keen to acknowledge that the progress was made possible through the combined efforts of many people.
He thanked Generation Rent’s staff, board members, funding partners and campaign organisations for their continued support. He also recognised policymakers and journalists who helped bring attention to renters’ concerns, along with the thousands of tenants who shared their personal experiences to strengthen the campaign’s message.
Twomey said these contributions played an essential role in helping secure changes that many renters had been calling for over a number of years.
Work Still to Be Done
Although he is leaving the organisation, Twomey believes there is still considerable work ahead to improve the private rented sector.
He said issues surrounding housing affordability, quality and long-term security remain important challenges, and expressed confidence that Generation Rent is well positioned to continue pushing for further reforms.
Ending his message on an optimistic note, he said the organisation’s long-standing belief that renting can, should and will improve remains as relevant as ever.
Leadership Transition
Generation Rent has not yet announced who will replace Twomey as Chief Executive.
Reports suggest the role carries an annual salary of around £68,000, and the organisation is expected to appoint a new leader in the coming months as it continues its work campaigning for renters’ rights across the UK.
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