CHAIN Quarterly Report reveals record-high rough sleeping numbers in London
1 November 2024
Highest number ever recorded highlights increase in UK nationals and rise in individuals 'living on the streets'
The latest findings from the Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN) Quarterly Report for Q2, covering July to September 2024, reveal that rough sleeping in London has reached its highest recorded level for a single quarter. Outreach teams across the capital documented 4,780 people sleeping rough, an increase of 18% compared to the same period last year, and a further indication of the growing rough sleeping crisis in London.
Of particular concern is the significant rise in the number of individuals deemed to be ‘living on the streets’ — those recorded bedded down regularly without stable accommodation. In Q2, 681 people fell into this category, marking a 42% increase from the same period last year.
During this quarter, 2,343 people were recorded as new to rough sleeping—12% higher than the same period last year. The report also reveals a rise in UK nationals as a proportion of those sleeping rough, while still under 50% , this highlights a possible change in the landscape in those affected by homelessness.
These findings reinforce the urgent need for strong, coordinated action to prevent individuals from falling into cycles of homelessness. At Thames Reach, we welcome the additional £233 million budget for homelessness and rough sleeping as a crucial step forward. We are eager to work with government at all levels to maximise the impact of this budget in the year ahead.
For the full CHAIN report, visit CHAIN Reports.