Homelessness in England Down by 25%

The figures published by the UK Government on June 11th suggest that the number of households labelled as homeless has decreased by almost 25%. The figures were revealed by Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and they allow to conclude that the number of homeless people across England was 26% lower on last year. For instance, the number of homeless people decreased from 15,430 in 2008 to 11,350 in the first quarter of 2009 (January through March). Moreover, the number of households in temporary accommodation was reduced by 17% during this time period. Despite the 17% decrease in the figure, the number of families that are still “enjoying” temporary accommodation constitutes 64,000; the Government plans to reduce this figure to 50,500 by next year. John Healey, UK housing minister, said that homelessness is the key priority of the Government with £220 million being injected into the economy. At the same time, the Government has spent £8 billion on the housing programme to help first-time buyers with affordable housing, and £550 million on the construction of social housing. The largest number of people who topped the homeless list included those whose parents, friends and relatives refused to accommodate them any longer. The 2 other popular reasons included a breakdown and the end of a shorthold tenancy. It is interesting to note that only 3% of people were made homeless as a result of mortgage arrears. Chief executive of Shelter, Mr. Sam Younger, claimed that his organization will welcome any further decline in the number of homeless people given that it is brought about by genuine work aimed at the prevention of people losing their homes. He added that the only way to alter the fact that 64,000 people are still living in temporary accommodation is to build more affordable homes so that each and everyone can secure a decent home of his or her own.