Local councils throughout London are set to receive a substantial £36.5 million in funding aimed at combating homelessness this winter.
According to London Councils, approximately one in every 50 residents in the capital experiences homelessness, with an unprecedented number of children living in temporary accommodation.
This funding initiative, announced by the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government (DHCLG), will focus on supporting individuals who are sleeping rough and assisting families at risk of homelessness.
Claire Holland, the chair of London Councils, emphasized that this financial support is “essential” for addressing the “homelessness crisis” facing the city.
London will receive the largest allocation from the total £84 million being distributed to councils throughout England.
Within the £36.5 million earmarked for London, £28.4 million will be dedicated to initiatives aimed at preventing rough sleeping. Additionally, £7.1 million will assist families with children living in temporary housing, and £960,000 is designated for drug and alcohol treatment services for individuals experiencing rough sleeping or those at risk of becoming homeless.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan expressed his support for the investment, stating that it would “bolster our Rough Sleeping Action Plan” and enhance collaboration with London Councils to prevent homelessness.
“I have always maintained that no one should have to sleep rough on our streets,” he remarked. “I will continue to collaborate with the government and various partners to ensure that those most in need receive the support they require.”
Matt Downie, the chief executive of the homelessness charity Crisis, acknowledged the funding as “greatly appreciated” as the winter approaches, but urged for the development of a long-term strategy.
He noted, “An increasing number of individuals may face the harsh reality of sleeping on cold streets and urgently need assistance. Many parents will struggle to help their children with homework from cramped and chilly temporary lodgings.”
A spokesperson from DHCLG indicated that this funding enhancement builds upon existing initiatives, including a £950 million fund aimed at expanding the availability of “suitable temporary accommodation.”
London Councils previously reported that boroughs in the capital were spending £5.5 million daily on homelessness during the 2024-25 period, with nearly £5 million allocated specifically for temporary accommodation for families.
This funding comes in the wake of data released by the Museum of Homelessness on Wednesday, revealing that the number of recorded homeless deaths in the UK reached a record high in 2024.
In England, over 1,100 homeless individuals lost their lives, representing a 16% increase from the previous year. London accounted for the largest share of these fatalities, with 326 deaths, an increase of 16 from the year before.
Homelessness Minister Alison McGovern acknowledged the persistent issue of homelessness in the UK, describing the situation as “too high for too long.” She emphasized that this funding would contribute to addressing the “crisis that has developed over the last decade.”
“This cycle must end, and we are taking measures in London to ensure that our Plan for Change is felt across the country as we work to construct more housing and assist those in need in securing shelter,” she added.
