Recent Figures Show a Sharp Rise in Homelessness

There was a sharp rise in homelessness in England in the three months to September 2017, figures published today have revealed.

15,290 households were accepted as being statutorily homeless, up 6% from 14,390 in the same period last year

3,300 of those accepted as homeless were 16-24 year olds, up 6.7% from 3,090 the previous quarter

The number of households in temporary accommodation was 79,190, up 6% from 74,750 at the same date last year

Image: Wera Hobhouse MP

Wera Hobhouse MP, Liberal Democrat Local Communities Spokesperson, commented:

"This sharp rise in homelessness as we enter the harsh winter months should shame Theresa May.

"Families are being left out in the cold by this heartless Conservative government.

"Young people are being particularly badly hit by the cruel decision to cut housing benefit for under-25s.

"The government must urgently boost funding for homelessness, reverse cuts to housing benefit for young people and build the social homes the country desperately needs."

ABC Note: We have a good briefing sheet about your rights under the Homlessness Reduction Act 2017, courtesy of the Chartered Institute of Housing. Please download below.