Number of Homeless People in England Rises by 8 Percent in One Year, Nearing 400,000: Half Are Children

The latest report from the charity Shelter, based on government data, shows that the number of homeless people in England has risen by 8 percent over the past year, reaching 382,618. More than 175,000 of those without a home are children. The data highlights that one in every 153 people in England is now considered homeless, and over 350,000 are living in temporary accommodation—a record high. The problem is particularly severe in London, where over half of the country’s homeless population resides, and the majority are families with children.

According to the report, each night in England, 4,667 people are forced to sleep on the streets, a figure that has increased by 20 percent from last year. The borough of Newham has the highest homelessness rate in the country, with one in every 18 residents lacking stable housing. Slough follows as the second hardest-hit area, where one in every 43 people is homeless. The shortage of social housing, skyrocketing private rental prices, and frozen housing support have all played a significant role in driving up homelessness nationwide.

Shelter’s director, Sarah Elliott, called the situation “unthinkable,” especially as winter approaches, and urged the government to act immediately. The charity’s report further notes a 15 percent rise in homelessness in the North West region and an 11 percent jump in Yorkshire, Humber, and the West Midlands over the past year. Shelter officials are urging the government to reinstate housing assistance programs and provide urgent support for those affected across the country.