The Government’s annual rough sleeping statistics for England, published today, found an estimated 2,440 people to be sleeping rough on a single night in autumn 2021. This is a decrease of 9% from last year.

The figures show:

• There were 2,440 people estimated to be sleeping rough on a single night in autumn 2021. 
• This is down by 248 people or 9% from last year and has fallen for a fourth year in a row from its peak in 2017.
• Most people sleeping rough in England are male, aged over 26 years old and from the UK. This is similar to previous years. 
• Nearly half (45%) of all people seen sleeping rough on a single night in the autumn are in London and the South East.

Matt Downie, Chief Executive of Crisis, said: “It’s very encouraging that there continues to be fewer people sleeping on our streets and that the numbers remain below pre-pandemic estimates – highlighting again that by prioritising ending homelessness we can make a difference.   

“But we cannot be complacent – one person sleeping on the streets is too many but for thousands to be facing this brutality is simply unacceptable. We must also remember that all the protections are now gone, and with the cost-of-living crisis piling additional pressure on to cash strapped budgets, councils are sounding the alarm that more people risk being thrown into the void of homelessness.   

“We can and must prevent this. By rolling out Housing First programmes across the country, which would ensure that people with complex support needs are given a home and the help they need to keep it, the Westminster Government can ensure that people can leave the streets behind for good. This must be backed up by a strategy to deliver the affordable housing we need so that people can stay safe in their homes. Only this ambitious action will ensure that everyone has a safe place to call home.”