A recent editorial in The Guardian newspaper highlighted homelessness as not only a housing crisis but also a health crisis, underlining the urgent need for solutions that go beyond housing alone.
With 354,000 people in England officially homeless, and primary school-age children increasingly trapped in temporary accommodation, it’s clear that this crisis has far-reaching consequences, especially on health. The crisis in London is particularly alarming. According to research from the Combined Homelessness and Information Network, rough sleeping in the capital increased by 19% between March 2023 and April 2024 compared to the previous year. December 2024 data from Shelter revealed that one in 47 Londoners are currently homeless, and cases of homelessness have surged by 54% over the last decade.
The figures are staggering: the Chartered Institute of Housing found that almost eight times more people live in temporary accommodation in London than in the rest of the country. In fact, 60% of all temporary accommodation households in England are in London—this includes over 75,000 children. In addition, 55% of people rough sleeping in the capital in 2024 have come from outside the UK, adding another layer of complexity to the crisis.
But the true extent of homelessness is likely even worse. Many people are ‘hidden homeless,’ couch-surfing, living in squats, or in unsecured accommodation. These individuals don’t show up in official statistics, yet a 2017 report by the London Assembly estimated that the hidden homeless population could be up to 13 times higher than official counts.
The physical and psychological toll of homelessness is immense. Insecure housing not only disrupts education, employment, and family life but also severely impacts physical and mental well-being. The Guardian points out that rough sleeping, which has surged in the face of rising costs, brings additional health risks, particularly during harsh winter months. Chronic health conditions, addiction, and untreated mental illnesses are common among people experiencing homelessness.
At Mildmay Hospital, we recognise that homelessness is as much a health crisis as it is a housing one. As a charitable hospital, we are committed to addressing this issue with a range of services that focus on recovery and rehabilitation. Our step-down medical care, designed for patients discharged from acute NHS hospitals but who still require ongoing medical attention, plays a critical role in supporting some of the most vulnerable in our society. These patients are often homeless, facing complex health needs that cannot be managed in overcrowded hostels or on the streets.
In addition, Mildmay’s post-detox rehabilitation services help individuals battling substance misuse recover in a safe, supportive environment. The link between homelessness and addiction is well-documented, and without proper care, the cycle of homelessness is tragically hard to break. By offering post-detoxification support, we help individuals transition to healthier, more stable lives, ultimately reducing the chances of returning to rough sleeping or hostel living.
The editorial rightly points out that charity efforts alone cannot solve the homelessness crisis. A broader systemic change is needed, with ministers addressing housing shortages, limiting rent rises, and holding developers accountable for building the affordable homes that are so desperately needed. However, while these long-term solutions are worked on, charities like Mildmay must continue to provide essential healthcare services that offer hope, stability, and recovery to those trapped in the homelessness cycle.
The moral outrage of homelessness in England should prompt all of us to take action. At Mildmay, we are committed to playing our part in this fight, offering both medical care and the support necessary to help people rebuild their lives. Together, we can address the housing and health crisis by ensuring that no one has to choose between their health and a roof over their head.
How You Can Help:
We can’t do this without your support. As we continue to provide care for those experiencing homelessness, your donations are essential in sustaining our work. Join us in the fight to restore health and dignity to the most vulnerable.
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