Almost 300,000 families are currently facing severe homelessness, as indicated by a recent report highlighting the escalating crisis. Charity Crisis reveals that individuals are being compelled to seek shelter on the streets or in inadequate temporary lodging like nightly-paid B&Bs and hostels.
The report discloses that in 2024, 299,100 households in England were confronted with acute homelessness, marking a 21% surge from 2022 and a substantial 45% increase from 2012 when the count stood at 206,400. According to the charity, these rises are attributed to real incomes being squeezed by inflation, a rise in poverty and destitution, escalating private rents coupled with evictions, and a decline in social rented accommodations. If immediate measures are not taken, the charity cautions that the figure could soar to an alarming 360,000 by 2041.
A national report, conducted by Heriot-Watt University on behalf of Crisis, found that 70% of councils have observed a rise in the number of residents seeking homelessness assistance. Notably, London and northern town halls have recorded the most significant increases.
Ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s upcoming Budget on November 26, Crisis is advocating for the restoration of housing benefits to align with private rent rates. Matt Downie, Chief Executive at Crisis, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the government must swiftly address the distressing findings to prevent individuals from living in unsafe conditions, whether it be children in substandard B&Bs or individuals resorting to streets, tents, or squats.
Downie stressed the importance of fulfilling the manifesto pledge to eradicate homelessness and preventing it by addressing gaps in support services to ensure individuals do not end up homeless after leaving institutions like prisons and hospitals. With winter approaching and the pressure on councils expected to intensify, he urged Westminster to seize the opportunity to rectify the critical issues within the housing crisis.
In response, a government spokesperson emphasized the commitment to providing a secure home for everyone, highlighting investments exceeding £1 billion in homelessness services, the launch of a comprehensive cross-government homelessness strategy, and a record £39 billion investment in affordable and social housing. Efforts are also underway to tackle the root causes of homelessness by collaborating across government to offer support to those most vulnerable, abolishing Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, and expanding access to secure accommodations.
