Housing associations have deep historical roots and are currently the fastest growing part of the British housing system, occupying a key position in relation to government policy on social exclusion and neighbourhood regeneration. This book provides the first detailed account of the historical development of voluntary housing organisations. Drawing on original research, the book develops a new angle on housing in Britain, showing how successive governments have shaped and reshaped housing associations into instruments of policy in the modernised welfare state.About the Author: PETER MALPASS has been involved in research and teaching on housing and housing policy since 1970. He is Professor of Housing Policy at the University of the West of England, Bristol.PETER MALPASS has been involved in research and teaching on housing and housing policy since 1970. He is Professor of Housing Policy at the University of the West of England, Bristol.