Rough sleeping in London surges as charities demand action

The number of people sleeping rough in the capital rises as charities call on the government to do more.

According to the Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN), 4,223 people were sleeping rough in London from April to June 2024, up from 3,272 in the same period last year – an increase of 29%.

The homeless charity Crisis is pushing for the government to create a dedicated homelessness unit and to boost funding for local authorities.

Sky high rents and lack of social housing

The data from CHAIN also reveals the number of people sleeping rough for the first time in London rose to 1,931 from April to June 2024, up from 1,614 in April to June 2023 – an increase of 20%.

Matt Downie, chief executive at Crisis, said: “It’s shameful that thousands of people are being forced to bed down on the capital’s streets – moving between night buses, or staying awake in doorways and 24-hour cafes. No one should have to face this level of danger. This bleak reality for over 4,000 people must change.

“Sky high rents and a desperate lack of social housing mean that more and more people are unable to keep a roof over their head. Councils are struggling to fund essential support services for those who need it.”

Future free from homelessness

Mr Downie adds the government and regional mayors must work together to end homelessness.

He said: “The government has made welcome announcements on building more social and affordable homes, which are desperately needed. But alongside this we urgently need a unit for ending homelessness to be established, backed by the prime minister and engaging with regional mayors, to deliver a strategy for tackling homelessness.

“This would provide overdue coordination across government to bring us closer to a future free from homelessness.”