Government figures released last month by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities show more people are sleeping rough on the streets of Leeds, an increase of 48% from the previous year.
Homelessness charity Emmaus Leeds says this rise is shocking and concerning, especially when compared to the annual increase of 26% across England.
The data was collected by Leeds Council as part of the government’s Rough Sleeping Snapshot in England.
Responding to the updated statistics, Donald Forrester, Chief Executive of Emmaus Leeds said: “Last months figures are shocking and concerning, and show that homelessness is on the rise in Leeds. We believe that these rising figures do not paint the full picture as hidden homelessness is a huge problem in England. We know that so many people are living in unsecure or unsuitable accommodation and are therefore being let down by the systems designed to protect them.
Emmaus Leeds is a charity that provides a home, training, work opportunities and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness. People supported by Emmaus Leeds – known as companions – gain skills, confidence and experience by working alongside local volunteers in their social enterprise.
Find the full government report here.