Homelessness surges in England amid housing crisis and inflation
The number of people sleeping on the streets in England increased by 20 per cent last year, according to official data published on Thursday. More and more are losing their homes due to inflation and the housing crisis, which has affected almost all parts of the country.
In 2024, the number of people sleeping on the streets of England rose by 20 per cent due to inflation and the housing crisis, which impacted almost every region. In the autumn of 2024, 4,667 people were found sleeping on the streets, compared to 3,898 the previous year.
The housing crisis in England
An increase in the number of homeless people was recorded across all regions of England, except for Cumbria. The largest increase, amounting to 43 per cent, was seen in Yorkshire and Humberside. Nearly a third (28 per cent) of those sleeping on the streets were in London and its surroundings.
For over three years, rising prices in the United Kingdom have contributed to increased poverty and homelessness. The situation is exacerbated by a severe housing crisis—marked by a huge surge in property prices, ever-lengthening waiting lists for social housing, and an increase in the number of second homes and properties in tourist spots.
"Devastating" and "shameful"
Rick Henderson, CEO of the association Homeless Link, described the data as devastating" and "shameful. He pointed to an inadequate social welfare system, a housing deficit, and a lack of coordination in government policies as main causes of the issue.
Housing insecurity also affects families with children. The number of children living in temporary accommodation increased by 15 per cent over the year, reaching 164,040 in September. The number of families in temporary accommodation also rose to a record high of 126,040, representing an increase of 16 per cent.
Keir Starmer's government announced that it will double the value of urgent support for the homeless to £60 million. This measure aims to mitigate the effects of the crisis and support those most in need.
Homelessness is also a significant problem in other European countries, including Germany. As recently reported, over half a million people live on the streets of German cities.
