The systems we have today were designed. They are the result of a set of decisions that were made about our society’s priorities and resources. Just as they were designed, we can redesign them so that they work for everyone
To end all types of homelessness, we need to understand and change the factors which cause it and make it worse. Issues such as the availability of affordable housing, legislation and the benefits system are part of this.
Our work with individuals drives our work to influence government, local authorities and housing providers' policy and practice to end homelessness.
We focus on the issues that have the biggest impact on homelessness and the people experiencing it.
To do this, we begin with in-depth research. We look closely at the root causes and long-term consequences of homelessness across the UK and use these insights to inform our approach. This stage often involves analysing data and reviewing legislation, so that we can identify gaps in the system and places for improvement.
We work directly with governments, local authorities and housing providers to shape our policy recommendations. Together, we identify practical solutions that can help end homelessness for good. These relationships help us spot where policies are failing, or sometimes missing altogether, allowing us to push for the changes people need most.
We also listen to people with lived experience of homelessness. Their insights help us understand the real barriers people face, from accessing housing to getting the right support. By centring these voices, we make sure our policy recommendations reflect real life and are capable of creating genuine change.
The UK Government updated its ‘Ending Rough Sleeping for Good’ strategy in 2022. It set out a commitment to end rough sleeping by 2024, backed by £2 billion in funding. The strategy focuses on prevention, intervention and recovery. It includes plans for supported housing and outreach services, but lacks a long-term plan for affordable homes.
While the 2024 target was not met, the Government remains committed to addressing rough sleeping. Almost £1 billion in additional funding has been allocated towards ending homelessness for the 2025/26 financial year.
The Welsh Government published a white paper titled ‘Ending Homelessness in Wales’ in October 2023. It outlines a comprehensive plan to ensure homelessness in Wales is rare, brief and unrepeated. This includes a number of changes to policy and the law focused on prevention, early intervention and the provision of adequate housing.
In October 2024, the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee launched an inquiry into how temporary accommodation affects children’s health, development and wellbeing. It aims to learn more about the quality of accommodation families are placed in and the challenges that both families and councils face. The insights gathered through the inquiry will help the Government and local authorities to better support children and families living in temporary accommodation.
In late 2023, the UK Government extended the time newly recognised refugees have to find housing and access support. The 'move-on' period increased from 28 to 56 days. This change gives people a better chance to secure a stable home, apply for benefits and start building a life in their new community.
Recent reforms to the benefit system are causing homelessness and making it harder for people to get back on their feet.
Experiencing homelessness has a negative impact on someone’s health and makes it difficult to access health services.
The law sets out what help people can get to deal with homelessness. But it can also exclude people from getting any help at all.
