Understanding the different types of homelessness and who is affected
In the UK, someone is considered legally homeless if they have no accommodation that is available and reasonable for them to occupy. This definition goes far beyond just sleeping rough on the streets.
The Housing Act 1996 defines homelessness as someone who has no accommodation, or who has accommodation but cannot secure entry to it, or where it's unreasonable for them to continue living there.
The most visible form of homelessness - sleeping outside, in cars, or in places not designed for human habitation.
Examples: Parks, doorways, bus shelters, cars, abandoned buildings
Living in temporary housing with no security of tenure, often provided by councils or charities.
Examples: B&Bs, hostels, night shelters, temporary council housing
Staying temporarily with friends or family, often moving between different households.
Examples: Living on friends' sofas, staying with relatives temporarily
Living in accommodation that is unsafe, overcrowded, or lacks basic facilities.
Examples: Overcrowded properties, homes with serious disrepair, temporary structures
People who will become homeless within 56 days without appropriate intervention.
Examples: Facing eviction, relationship breakdown, domestic abuse situations
Many people experiencing homelessness are hidden from view and official statistics. They might not identify themselves as homeless, but they lack stable, secure accommodation.
Young people sofa surfing, women fleeing domestic abuse, people in temporary accommodation, those living in severely overcrowded homes
For every person sleeping rough, many more are experiencing hidden homelessness. Estimates suggest hidden homelessness affects 10-20 times more people than visible rough sleeping
Single adults, particularly men aged 25-44, are disproportionately represented in homelessness statistics.
Families with children often experience hidden homelessness, staying in temporary accommodation or with relatives.
16-24 year olds are at high risk, often due to family breakdown, leaving care, or financial difficulties.
People over 55 face unique challenges including health issues, pension problems, and social isolation.
While substance misuse can be a factor for some, most people experiencing homelessness do not have addiction issues. Common causes include relationship breakdown, job loss, and health problems.
Homelessness is rarely a choice. Most people desperately want stable housing but face barriers like lack of affordable housing, discrimination, or complex support needs.
Many people experiencing homelessness work or want to work. Barriers include lack of address for job applications, health issues, or caring responsibilities.
Homelessness affects every area of the UK, including rural communities and smaller cities like Peterborough. Rural homelessness is often less visible but equally serious.
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, there are local services that can help:
Housing options team for emergency accommodation and housing advice
Contact: 01733 452500
Hot meals, support services, and advice
Open daily for hot meals
Free housing advice telephone service
0808 800 4444
Live chat support, wellbeing packs, and emergency coordination
Use our live chat or email us
Understanding homelessness is the first step to making a difference