New report shows 21% increase in number of people sleeping rough in London

The latest report by the CHAIN Homeless Database shows that a total of 10,053 people were recorded sleeping rough in London in 2022/23, a 21% increase on the previous year.

Statistics also show that 6,391 people were recorded as sleeping rough for the first time, a 26% annual increase. 

The report records figures for rough sleeping in London for the year from April 2022 to March 2023 and a total of 10,053 people were seen rough sleeping in the capital during 2022/23. 

Responding to the report findings Tom O’Connor, Providence Row CEO, said:

 ‘Such a large increase in people affected by homelessness in London is very concerning. It is also really worrying to see so many people finding themselves sleeping rough for the first time. This on-going homelessness crisis is being fuelled by the cost of living crisis and a lack of affordable housing and there is no end in sight.

 Charities that support the homeless are also facing increased financial pressure and services are being stretched to breaking point. We are certainly seeing an increase in the number of people accessing our services, many of whom have not been previously known to us. This puts a huge additional strain on already busy services.

 We call on the government to do more to support homeless people to meet the pledge made to “end the blight of rough sleeping by the end of the next parliament”. We will continue to do everything we can as a charity to support our clients and help people come off and stay off the streets. ‘