The Reality of Van Life in Cornwall's Housing Crisis

The Harsh Reality of Van Life in Cornwall

Skye, a 25-year-old special educational needs teaching assistant, has made a van her home in Cornwall. She parks up late, often in car parks away from beaches, and never stays more than one night to avoid local people getting angry. Winters are tough, with ice on the inside of her van windows and frozen door handles.

The Struggle to Find Affordable Housing

Cornwall's housing market is driven by tourism, with 4 million visitors annually. This has led to a surge in Airbnbs and holiday lets, making it difficult for young people to find long-term rental properties. With around 13,000 visitors owning second homes, the competition for affordable housing is fierce.

The Rise of Van Life as a Solution

Skye and others like her are buying old vans to live in because they can't find or afford a rental property. A van offers a different path, but it's not without its challenges. Skye moved to Cornwall from Milton Keynes at 16 and fell in love with the place, but she struggled to find a home.

The Freedom and Challenges of Van Life

Skye enjoys the freedom living in a van gives her, but it's not without its challenges. Her van has broken down multiple times, and she's paying off a £2,000 repair bill. Despite this, she feels "trapped" at the thought of moving to a house.

Support for Van Dwellers

Caroline Dann hosts a weekly drop-in support session for van dwellers in St Day. She says Skye's experience is typical, with highs and lows that come with van life. The session provides a space for van dwellers to share their experiences and find support.