New figures released today by the Combined Homelessness and
Information Network (CHAIN) show a rise in rough sleeping across
London, with 2,998 people sleeping rough from April – June 2022.
This is an increase of 16% compared to the same period last year.
It is also a 10% increase on the previous quarter, when 2,714
people were seen sleeping on the capital’s streets.
Other findings from the data release include:
- There were 1,446 new rough sleepers, a 23% increase on the
same period last year.
- 411 of the people rough sleeping were deemed to be living on
the streets, a 13% increase on the previous quarter.
- Nearly three quarters (73%) of those sleeping rough had one
or more support needs. Over half (51%) of those sleeping rough
had mental health needs.
Matt Downie, Crisis Chief Executive,
said: “It’s hugely distressing to see there has
been a rise in the numbers forced to bed down on the capital’s
streets, and especially that we’re seeing more people sleep rough
for the first time. This must act as a wakeup call for the new
Prime Minister that we cannot be complacent if we’re to end rough
sleeping for good.
“With each passing day the cost of living crisis pushes more
people to the edge as they struggle to cope with the surge in
bills, rent, and food, and yet we still do not have an
updated rough sleeping strategy that sets out a clear plan for
how we will tackle one of the greatest social injustices of our
time.
“We cannot let anyone else fall through the cracks and face the
brutality of homelessness. The new Prime Minister must
publish an updated rough sleeping strategy as a matter of
urgency, which includes a plan to deliver the genuinely
affordable homes we need, so that no one has to face life on the
streets.”
