Almost 300,000 families are currently facing severe homelessness, as indicated by a recent report highlighting the escalating crisis. Charity Crisis has disclosed that this alarming situation encompasses individuals compelled to seek shelter on the streets or in inadequate temporary housing like nightly-paid B&Bs and hostels.
The report reveals that in 2024, 299,100 households in England were confronted with acute homelessness, marking a 21% surge since 2022 and a significant 45% rise from the 2012 figure of 206,400. According to the charity, these surges are attributed to inflation squeezing real incomes, escalating poverty and destitution, a rise in private rents along with evictions, and a decline in social rented lettings. Without immediate intervention, the charity cautions that this number could soar to a staggering 360,000 by 2041.
A national report, commissioned by Crisis and led by Heriot-Watt University, found that 70% of councils have observed a rise in residents seeking homelessness assistance. The most substantial increases were reported in London and northern English town halls.
Ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Budget on November 26, Crisis is advocating for the restoration of housing benefit to align with private rents. Matt Downie, Chief Executive at Crisis, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that no one should endure living in unsafe conditions, whether it involves children in substandard B&Bs or individuals resorting to sleeping rough on the streets, in tents, or in squats.
Downie urged ministers to fulfill the manifesto commitment to eradicate homelessness and stressed the importance of addressing gaps in support services to prevent individuals from becoming homeless after leaving institutions like prisons and hospitals. As winter approaches and pressure on local councils mounts, he emphasized the need for Westminster to address the critical aspects of the housing crisis.
In response, a government spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts to provide safe housing for all citizens. The government is investing over £1 billion in homelessness services, launching a comprehensive homelessness strategy, and allocating a record £39 billion towards affordable and social housing. Additionally, initiatives are in place to tackle the root causes of homelessness, including support for at-risk individuals, abolishing Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, and expanding access to secure accommodation.