Almost 300,000 families are currently facing severe homelessness, as indicated by a recent report highlighting the escalating crisis. Charity Crisis has pointed out that this dire situation involves individuals being compelled to sleep on the streets or in unsuitable temporary housing like nightly-paid B&Bs and hostels.
The report reveals that in 2024, 299,100 households in England were in acute homelessness conditions, marking a 21% surge since 2022 and a remarkable 45% increase from 2012 when the number stood at 206,400. According to the charity’s report, these rises have been fueled by inflation constraining real incomes, escalating poverty and destitution, a rise in private rents coupled with evictions, and a decline in social rented accommodations. If immediate action is not taken, the charity cautions that this figure could soar to a staggering 360,000 by 2041.
A comprehensive national report, initiated by Crisis and conducted by Heriot-Watt University, discovered that 70% of councils have observed a rise in residents seeking homelessness support. Notably, London and northern town halls have recorded the most significant increases.
With Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Budget scheduled for November 26, Crisis is advocating for the restoration of housing benefits to align with private rent prices. Matt Downie, Crisis’s Chief Executive, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that no one should be forced to live in unsafe conditions, whether it be children in substandard B&Bs or individuals sleeping on the streets, in tents, or squats.
Ministers are urged to fulfill the manifesto pledge to eradicate homelessness and prevent it by addressing support service gaps, ensuring individuals do not end up homeless after leaving institutions like prisons and hospitals. As winter approaches and pressure on councils is projected to intensify, Westminster is implored to seize the opportunity to address the most critical aspects of the housing crisis.
In response, a government spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts to combat homelessness, including investments exceeding £1 billion in homelessness services, the launch of a comprehensive cross-government homelessness strategy, and a record £39 billion allocation for affordable and social housing. Additionally, actions are being taken to address the root causes of homelessness by coordinating government efforts to provide support for those at high risk, eliminating Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, and expanding access to secure accommodations.