Rough sleeping across Britain is predicted to jump by three quarters (76%) over the next decade, a new forecast from homelessness charity Crisis has warned.
Responding to the findings, which estimate that overall homelessness numbers will rise by more than a quarter (26.5%) over the next 10 years to 202,200 in 2026, Denise Hatton, Chief Executive for YMCA England & Wales, said:
“It’s no secret that a lack of housebuilding, high rents and increased deposit demands have put vulnerable young people at greater risk of homelessness, yet it’s important that any financial investment into tackling the homelessness crisis addresses the issues that caused young people to sleep rough or be homeless in the first place.
“Without help to overcome mental and physical health problems and to gain meaningful employment, a roof over someone’s head is often little more than a quick fix.
“YMCAs up and down the country provide a home to more than 18,000 people experiencing homelessness each year. Our staff and volunteers not only help them to get off the streets but support them to get their lives back on track.”
YMCA is the largest voluntary provider of safe, supported accommodation for young people in England and Wales. We offer more than 9,100 beds, which includes everything from emergency accommodation through to supported longer-term housing and youth hostels. For more information about homelessness provision in your area, contact your local YMCA.