Shelter response to government rough sleeping statistics

Responding to the figures, Graeme Brown, interim chief executive of Shelter, said: “The shocking rise in rough sleeping is a shame on this country. But while it’s the most visible manifestation of homelessness, unfortunately it’s only the tip of the iceberg. Many more thousands of people who we don’t see on the streets, including families with children, are hidden away in emergency B&Bs, hostels and on friend’s sofas.

“The lack of affordable homes coupled with cuts to welfare have led us to this tragic situation. Until the government provides more homes that people on low incomes can actually afford to live in, the problem will only get worse.”