Homelessness Figures Higher Than Data Suggests, Research Shows
London, UK - New research indicates the scale of homelessness in the UK is significantly larger than official government figures suggest, with many individuals falling through the cracks of current support systems.A report by Crisis reveals that a substantial number of people experiencing homelessness do not meet the criteria established by local councils and the government for assistance, especially those in insecure situations like sofa-surfing.
The findings come as government data released last month showed almost 330,000 households where at risk of homelessness in 2024.Though, this figure includes those in suitable temporary accommodation and individuals who ultimately avoided losing their homes.
The Crisis study also highlights the harsh realities faced by those in temporary housing. Isra, who came to the UK with her family from Iraq in 2009 after fleeing war, recounts a childhood spent moving between over ten temporary accommodations in London. she described conditions that were frequently enough “unsuitable,” including overcrowded rooms – sometimes with four siblings sharing one space – and infestations. “I remember my mother sifting through bags of rice because there were so many rats, we’d found rat droppings in our food,” Isra said. Thes conditions, she added, negatively impacted her ability to focus on school and build friendships.
Matt Downie, Chief Executive of Crisis, called for a “rapid response” from the government, stating, “No one should be forced to live in unsafe conditions, whether it’s children in poor-quality B&Bs or people having to sleep on the streets, in tents or in squats.”
A survey of local councils conducted for the Crisis research found that 70% reported an increase in people seeking homelessness assistance in the past year.
the government announced an £84 million cash boost last month aimed at preventing homelessness this winter and stated it is investing over £1 billion in homelessness services, alongside efforts to abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions and expand access to safe accommodation.
labor’s 2023 election manifesto pledged a new cross-government homelessness strategy, promising to work with mayors and councils to end homelessness in Britain. While some within the party have expressed concern over the strategy’s delayed launch, it is anticipated before the end of the year.
