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Auckland faces Alarming Surge in Homelessness Amidst Worsening Economic Conditions
Social service providers are sounding the alarm about escalating poverty, attributing the rise to meaningful economic pressures. This concern is underscored by a stark increase in the number of individuals experiencing homelessness on Auckland’s streets.
A report due for discussion by the Auckland Council‘s Community Committee on Tuesday reveals a dramatic jump in the homeless population. As of May this year, 809 people were recorded as sleeping rough, marking a staggering 90 percent increase since September of the previous year.This data follows a Ministry of Housing and Urban Growth report indicating that a portion of those exiting emergency housing may be finding themselves without a home.The council’s analysis highlights two primary risks stemming from this trend, based on information gathered by outreach services:
Increased Rough Sleeping: This phenomenon is expected to lead to higher expenditures for outreach, monitoring, and connecting individuals with social support. While the council acknowledges its role and the necessity of continued coordination and investment in the homelessness sector, it’s noted that these efforts will manage, but not entirely resolve, the issue.
Heightened Unmet Mental Health Needs: A rise in individuals with unaddressed mental health challenges could contribute to a perception of unsafe public spaces and facilities. The report emphasizes the ongoing need to advocate for increased central government funding to address these critical needs.
Over the past ten months, Auckland Council has received over 500 public inquiries concerning rough sleepers. These requests have varied, from expressions of concern for individuals’ well-being to reports of bylaw infringements and obstructed access.
Dickie humphries,Head of Community Impact at Auckland Council,described the increase in rough sleeping as deeply troubling. “Our vision is for this region to be a thriving city for everyone, and the current homelessness situation in Auckland is the antithesis of that,” he stated. “We find it very concerning.”
Humphries elaborated on the complex factors contributing to this crisis, noting that agencies and council observations point to deteriorating social and economic circumstances, which disproportionately affect vulnerable individuals and those on the fringes of society.
In response, the council is collaborating with social service organizations to address public concerns and maintain a visible presence in the city. “we do have limitations in our resources, and the most effective way to make progress is through collective action,” Humphries explained. “No single institution or institution can tackle this challenge alone. Therefore, maximizing the impact of Auckland Council’s contribution to the region will be achieved through our partnerships.”
