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3h ago

UK Homeless Deaths Rose 9% in 2024 to 1,611, Including 11 Children

A grassroots count points to rising harms in temporary accommodation, prompting urgent calls for action.

Carla Ecola, the director of the LGBTQ+ homeless shelter The Outside Project, was among the campaigners laying candles on the landmark in memory of homeless deaths. Credit: Anthony Luvera
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Overview

  • Researchers reported increasing “deaths of despair,” with drugs or alcohol cited in 44% of cases and concerns over synthetic opioids and spice.
  • England and Northern Ireland recorded year-on-year increases, while Scotland and Wales fell, with regional spikes in the South West, East Midlands and East of England.
  • The grassroots tally, compiled via FOI requests, coroners’ reports and family testimonies, found more people dying in hotels, B&Bs, hostels and supported housing.
  • Homelessness minister Alison McGovern called the figures “heartbreaking” and said the government is accelerating efforts to tackle root causes and strengthen support.
  • Crisis and Homeless Link urged rapid measures including more social housing and an unfreeze of housing benefit, with a vigil planned outside Downing Street on 9 October.