New Government homelessness statistics for the final quarter of 2020-21 reveal that, even during the pandemic, 265,560 households were either homeless or at risk of homelessness in England.

Responding to the statistics, Rick Henderson, Chief Executive of Homeless Link, comments: “It is shocking that at a time when many of us were asked to stay at home, more than a quarter of a million households, many with children, were still at risk of losing theirs.

“This is in spite of furlough, the eviction ban and other measures to protect people. The figures show that more urgent intervention is needed to prevent homelessness.

“The Government must prioritise sustainable funding for services and a focus on prevention that addresses the systemic causes of homelessness – including the welfare system and lack of truly affordable housing – if we are to end homelessness for good.

“Everyone should have the right to open and close their front door and feel safe and secure in their own accommodation.

“Sadly, these figures demonstrate that, for many people, this isn’t the case. This insecurity can be seen all across England,  affecting people in every community. Urgent and ambitious action is needed from the Government and across society to end this outrage.”