The facts and figures behind homelessness in the UK
Homelessness affects hundreds of thousands of people across the UK each year. These statistics help us understand the scale and nature of the crisis.
People experience homelessness annually in the UK
People estimated to be sleeping rough on a single night (2023)
Increase in rough sleeping since 2010
284,000 households approached councils for help in 2022/23
This represents over 650,000 people, including 140,000 children
Estimated 380,000+ people experiencing hidden homelessness
Sofa surfing, staying with friends/family, temporary accommodation
Families and individuals in temporary housing provided by councils:
104,000 households in temporary accommodation (March 2023)
+9.4% increase from previous year
142,490 children living in temporary accommodation
1 in 100 children in England affected
Average stay for families
Annual cost to taxpayers
Households in B&Bs (unsuitable for families)
Local statistics for our area:
Estimated 15-25 people sleeping rough regularly
Higher than national average for city size
50+ people estimated rough sleeping county-wide
Significant hidden homelessness in rural areas
200+ households in temporary accommodation locally
Including many families with children
Significant issues with young people sofa surfing
Local charities report increasing demand
How does the UK compare internationally?
0.17% of population
Rough sleeping rate
0.009% of population
Housing First approach
0.17% of population
Similar rate to UK
Countries with lower homelessness rates typically have stronger social housing systems, higher welfare spending, and prevention-focused approaches. Finland's "Housing First" model has virtually eliminated rough sleeping.
Homelessness is expensive - both human and financial costs:
Annual cost per person experiencing homelessness
Annual cost of temporary accommodation
Total annual cost to public services
Average life expectancy reduction
Report mental health issues
More likely to be victims of violence
Behind every number is a human being. Here's how you can help change these statistics: