October 10 marks World Homeless Day 2023, a day when people are asked to educate themselves about homelessness and work together to bring it to an end. This year, Emmaus is calling for people to join our mission to end homelessness and help more people find a place to call home.
Throughout this year, we have seen sharp increases in the numbers of people experiencing homelessness. The number of households stuck in temporary accommodation in England hit a record high this year, while the numbers of people sleeping rough have also soared. The rough sleeping stats do not include hidden homelessness. Therefore, the true number of people experiencing homelessness is likely to be much higher.
Emmaus communities across the country are also receiving more applications from people who are in urgent need. The increase is thought to be due to the cost-of-living crisis and unaffordable rents, which are driving people over the edge into homelessness.
Emmaus must be there to support more people in crisis
Speaking at the Emmaus National Assembly on 8 October, Charlotte Talbott, Emmaus UK CEO, said:
“Tuesday is World Homeless Day and we all know that the housing system in this country is in crisis. The system is broken and people are suffering.
“A third more people are sleeping on the streets now than 10 years ago. There’s a chronic shortage of social homes, private renters are worried about the stability of their accommodation and the current system does not provide sufficient protections.
“Over one quarter of a million people are stuck in unsuitable temporary accommodation including in hostels, hotels and bed and breakfasts – sadly, this includes 130,000 children. 129,000 young people approached their local authority for help last year, and we know that this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Beyond those experiencing homelessness, many others are suffering as a result of the cost-of-living crisis, war, political unrest and climate change.
“The question for us is, what more can we do?”
Support Emmaus on World Homeless Day 2023
Emmaus provides a home for as long as it is needed. Communities offer a sense of belonging and personalised support. Social enterprise is a core part of the Emmaus model, generating vital income and allowing companions to rebuild their self esteem and regain a sense of purpose.
Donate to Emmaus UK today to support people who are rebuilding their lives at Emmaus communities around the UK.
Your donation will help us to provide a home, support and meaningful work to people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion.
Homelessness Matters podcast season two
To coincide with World Homeless Day 2023, Emmaus has launched season two of its popular podcast, Homelessness Matters.
In this season, we take a fresh approach to homelessness by going beyond personal experiences and exploring how larger factors in our society can lead to homelessness.
Listen now