Homelessness in England could increase by 25% by 2030, warns report

Andy Burnham has been warned that without a radical "housing first" agenda, an additional 50,000 people may experience homelessness in England by 2030. This alarming projection is part of a report set to be published by the IPPR North thinktank and the charity Crisis on Monday. The report highlights that the current record levels of homelessness could rise to over 230,000 individuals within the next seven years.

Projected Rise in Homelessness

The report indicates that the number of individuals owed a homelessness duty by local authorities is anticipated to increase from 182,540 last year to 231,299 by 2029-30. This projection underscores the urgent need for bold policy changes to address the homelessness crisis in England.

Official statistics reveal that the number of people sleeping rough in England reached a record high of 4,793 last summer. However, this figure is believed to be an underestimate, as it does not include those in temporary accommodations like hostels. The current total homeless figure stands at over 180,000.

Call for Action from Burnham

Burnham, who is expected to become the Prime Minister on 20 July, has committed to initiating the largest council housebuilding program since the postwar era. He aims to see a significant reduction in rough sleeping shortly after taking office. His leadership team has been briefed on the projections, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Zoë Billingham, director of IPPR North, has been advising Burnham in recent weeks and is likely to play a significant role in his government. The report advocates for the national expansion of Burnham's "A Bed Every Night" initiative, which aims to provide personalized support and accommodation for those at risk of sleeping rough.

Financial Implications of Homelessness

The financial burden of homelessness on local councils has increased dramatically. The UK government spent £3.8 billion on homelessness last year—more than double the amount spent in 2010. Most of this funding goes toward temporary housing solutions, such as hostels and refuges.

• 2009-10: £70.3 million spent on temporary accommodation
• 2024-25: Estimated at least £1.3 billion
• Current homeless figure: >180,000

Matt Downie, chief executive of Crisis, criticized the current system, stating it is “madness” to continue spending billions on ineffective temporary accommodations that fail to offer stability or a pathway out of homelessness. He expressed confidence that Burnham understands the severity of the issue and is committed to making it a governmental priority.