Rough sleeping in England has soared to a new high, with figures revealing a devastating 27% increase in the past year.

Across all regions, an estimated 3,898 people were found sleeping rough in 2023. This marks a staggering 120% increase compared to 2010, when records began.

Experts point to the controversial eviction of refugees from Home Office hotels as a significant factor. With only a week’s notice, many individuals with the right to remain were left with nowhere to go, with December data showing a concerning rise in rough sleepers coming directly from asylum support.

The crisis extends beyond those sleeping rough. Local authority temporary accommodation for homeless people has reached record levels, with over 109,000 households, including 142,000 children, forced into emergency housing. This 10% annual rise signifies a wider housing affordability crisis.

A national emergency

With winter approaching, the government faces renewed pressure to address this growing problem and deliver on its unfulfilled promises.

Serveco, a specialist provider of support staff for the supported living sector across the UK, has further expanded its work in London and Kent to support those in need through outreach work, security, and care.