The latest figures* show that street homelessness has escalated by a shocking 29% since last year, and 58% in the last decade**. This is reflected in the increasing number of people seeking our support.
The rise in rough sleeping is due to many factors, contributing to a perfect storm. Firstly, increasing costs mean more landlords are leaving the rental sector, or no longer letting to tenants with low incomes. There are barely any new affordable properties to compensate. This widening gap between supply and demand is driving rents up, fueling overcrowding and pushing tenants to live far from the communities they know, or to compromise on safety, privacy and amenities.
At the same time, growing numbers of asylum seekers are being forced to vacate National Asylum Support Service (NASS) accommodation, leaving them without food, support or the means to escape life on the streets.
Here at The Passage, we’re striving to meet people’s needs.
Last year, thanks to the kindness and generosity of our supporters, we were there for 2,146 people experiencing homelessness. We helped 1,167 people to find and keep a home, supported 628 with their mental and physical health and served 34,588 hot, nutritious meals to those who visited our Resource Centre in Victoria, London.
Although we’re stretched to the limit, we support everyone who turns to us.
Kishan, who manages the Resource Centre team, shared: “With footfall on the rise, it’s important that we continue to review our working practices to ensure that those who visit us are safe, and can receive the support they need. Those we help are able to access showers, hot meals, clean clothing – and most importantly – the chance to speak to someone, daily, every week day.“
Ultimately, Kishan says, the most pressing need is funding for more staff. In the
meantime, our commtted volunteers play a vital role: “People recognise what’s
going on with homelessness and want to give back… As long as people care and want
to help, we will always try to find the light at the end of the tunnel – no matter how
long it takes. We never give up on people.“
We all have a role to play in ending homelessness in London.
Official figures revealed that 4,223 people slept on London’s Streets between April and June 2024*.
46% of those sleeping rough were experiencing homelessness for the first time*.
We have seen a 98% increase in people coming to our Housing Solutions Service***.
If you can, please support The Passage today.
*CHAIN report: April – June 2024.
**CHAIN report: April 2023 – March 2024 compared with the same period in 2014/15.
*** Based on The Passage Q1 2024/25 Housing Solutions Service figures.