Crisis responds to 'unacceptable' rise in number of people in temporary accommodation

Today the government releases its statutory homelessness statistics showing that there are 78,930 households living in temporary accommodation across England, a 4% rise since last year and a massive 49% rise in the last five years.

Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive at Crisis, said:

“It's unacceptable that nearly 79,000 households across England are finding themselves homeless and with no choice but to live in temporary accommodation such as B&Bs and hostels.

"Temporary accommodation is often cramped, unsuitable, and sometimes even dangerous. It can have a devastating impact on people’s lives and mental health, and it's no place for anyone to call home. Worryingly, our research shows that the number of households in the worst forms of temporary accommodation is set to double by 2026 if nothing is done to address the problem.

"This can't go on. Temporary accommodation can be an important short-term measure, but when so many people are finding themselves stuck there it's clear that the government must invest more in schemes to prevent homelessness in the first place – and ultimately to end it once and for all."