Today, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released new statistics on the number of people who died while homeless in England and Wales in 2020. The figures show that an estimated 688 people died while experiencing homelessness.
This is a small decrease of 11.6% on the 778 deaths registered in 2019. The decrease in number could be attributed to the Everyone In scheme, although it is concerning that despite the relative success of the scheme, there was only a small decrease in number of deaths. Also, the ONS has admitted difficulty in identifying people experiencing homelessness due to the Everyone In scheme so the true figure may be substantially higher.
Charlotte Talbott, Chief Executive of Emmaus UK, said:
“688 people dying while experiencing homelessness is 688 too many. It is clear that experiencing homelessness has an immediate and profound impact and that providing effective support is so much more than just providing a roof over someone’s head. The government, local councils and charities need to provide a joined up approach to ensure long-term support is provided”