Figures released today by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government show a 43% increase in people sleeping rough across the Yorkshire and the Humber region last year, compared to 2023.
Despite Kingston upon Hull recording a decrease of 20%, Emmaus Hull & East Riding is concerned over the regional increase – from 270 to 385 – as well as the national picture. We are also warning that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of homelessness.
Responding to the updated statistics, Stephanie Dixon, Director of Emmaus Hull & East Riding, said: “These figures are deeply concerning and reflect what we’re seeing on the ground – more people struggling to find a stable home. We’ve seen rough sleeping increase in recent years, and it’s alarming that more people than ever are now at risk.
The data was collected as part of the government’s Rough Sleeping Snapshot in England. Released each year in February, these statistics provide a snapshot of the number of people sleeping rough during a single autumn night in local authorities across England.
Stephanie added: “These statistics are worrying because many more people experiencing homelessness are hidden and not counted in these figures. There are many people who are sofa surfing, staying in temporary accommodation, or living in unsafe conditions just to avoid the streets. They don’t appear in these latest figures, but they still need urgent support.
“We need long-term solutions. More investment in homelessness services and social housing is essential to prevent more people from being pushed into rough sleeping. Alongside this, organisations like Emmaus play a vital role in giving people the chance to rebuild their lives. By providing a stable home, tailored support, and work opportunities, we help people to move forward and avoid returning to homelessness.”
A home and tailored support
Emmaus Hull & East Riding provides a home, training, work opportunities and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion. Our charity offers more than just a bed for the night. People supported by Emmaus receive a home, tailored support, and the opportunity to gain skills and work opportunities through the charity’s social. This package of support helps people regain stability, rebuild their confidence, and work towards independence.
Alan*, one of the people supported by Emmaus Hull & East Riding, said: “I was made homeless to escape a really bad relationship and was sleeping on the streets for about six weeks. There are a lot of organisations out there that provide a meal or clothes, but if there’s no accommodation, you’re sleeping outside like I was – just surviving.
“An outreach team told me about Emmaus and that it would be a chance to rebuild my life, get off the streets and do better for myself. Emmaus has given me a chance to take time, fix situations that happened to me during my life and look to the future.”
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*Name changed to protect the person’s privacy.