Government figures released today by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government show a 70% increase in people sleeping rough across Merseyside last year, compared to 2023.
Emmaus Merseyside has expressed concern over the rise – from 48 to 82 people across the five boroughs in the Liverpool City Region – also warning that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of homelessness in the area.
Responding to the updated statistics, Marc Bamber, CEO of Emmaus Merseyside, said: “These figures are deeply concerning and reflect what we’re seeing locally – more people struggling to find a stable home. We’ve seen rough sleeping increase in recent years, and 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.
Marc added: “These statistics are just the tip of a much larger iceberg. Many people experiencing homelessness are hidden – sofa surfing, staying in temporary accommodation, or living in unsafe conditions just to avoid the streets. They don’t appear in these 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.”
Opportunities after homelessness
Emmaus Merseyside provides a home, support, and work opportunities for up to 30 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.
Mikey, one of the people supported by Emmaus Merseyside, said: “I was made homeless after being evicted from my property. From there I was on the streets for 9 months and it was horrible. I was beaten up, urinated on, had knives pulled on me, robbed – I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.
“I came up to Seaforth, seen the community, seen the room and it was unreal – I said yes straight away. Living with everyone at Emmaus is boss. You can talk to people about your day and have a laugh. The staff team here at Emmaus is brilliant. They’re helping me towards my future goals.”
Find out more about the Emmaus Merseyside charity and social enterprise.