ALABARÉ shocked at ‘hidden homeless’ figures revealed in new report
The level of hidden homelessness across the UK is devastating, as the latest stats show numbers are rising.
National homelessness charity ALABARÉ says the level of hidden homelessness across the UK is devastating, as the latest stats show numbers are rising.
A report from Crisis, led by Heriot-Watt University, has found that almost 300,000 households are experiencing homelessness.
The figures include those sleeping rough on the streets and sofa surfing, as well as those in unsuitable temporary accommodation, such as B&Bs and hostels, and even those bedding down in places like tents and sheds.
The numbers are much higher than Government statistics would suggest, which only include households that have presented to local authorities for support.
The figures for 2024 show that acute homelessness has increased 22% since 2022, while rough sleeping and stays in unsuitable temporary accommodation are each up by 150% since 2020.
The homelessness crisis is believed to be increasing due to ongoing cost-of-living concerns, high inflation, and issues within the rental markets, which mean households are struggling to keep up with increasing rents, while fewer social and affordable properties are becoming available.
ALABARÉ supported more than 3,200 people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness across the South West and Wales in 2024/25, including adults, young people who are leaving care, young parents and their babies, and veterans.
The charity welcomes recent Government announcements to invest £39 billion in social housing provision, repealing the Vagrancy Act from Spring 2026, bringing in the Renters’ Rights Bill to end no-fault evictions, and £1 billion to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping.
But ALABARÉ is also calling for the long-awaited homelessness strategy to be published, to ensure the necessary support for households becomes a common goal and is properly funded.
Head of Homelessness Services, Naomi Webb, said:
“We’re shocked but sadly not surprised by the hidden homeless figures shared in the Crisis report. We’re seeing demand for our homelessness services steadily increasing, with an average of 20 people attending our drop-in centres every single day.
“It’s important that a clear strategy on how to support those with the greatest need is put forward, which includes more immediate help for people facing difficulties now, as well as longer-term services so households can break the cycle of homelessness for good.”
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