The 202-year-old Vagrancy Act, which meant someone could be criminalised for rough sleeping, has been officially repealed across England and Wales today (29 June).
Homelessness charities and campaigners have spent years calling for the law to be abolished, arguing that criminalisation can create additional barriers for people who are often already vulnerable and facing significant challenges.
While the Act has been used less frequently in recent years, it continued to give authorities powers to move people on, face the prospect of a criminal record or a £1,000 fine – rather than addressing the root causes that led to their homelessness.
The repeal represents an important shift in approach, recognising that people experiencing homelessness need support not punishment.
Responding to the news, Oasis Community Housing’s CEO Sarah Gorman said: “Having worked in the homelessness sector for 35 years, I have seen first-hand the devastating impact that homelessness can have on people’s lives. I have also seen the resilience, courage and potential of the people we support every day.
“The repeal of the Vagrancy Act is a landmark moment and a significant step forward for our society. For too long, people experiencing homelessness faced the possibility of being treated as criminals simply because they had nowhere safe to call home. Today’s change sends a clear message that homelessness is not a crime – it is a social issue that requires compassion, understanding and practical support.
“Today, we celebrate progress. Tomorrow, and every day after, we continue working towards a future where we effectively prevent homelessness, provide timely support and ensure that everyone has access to a safe, secure place to live.no one is forced to sleep rough and everyone has the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity and hope.”
Although the Vagrancy Act was repealed through legislation passed in 2022, it remained in force until replacement measures were introduced. Its removal from the statute book now brings England and Wales into line with Scotland, where similar legislation was abolished years ago.
In announcing the repeal, the government says the change forms part of its wider commitment to preventing homelessness and helping people access stable, long-term housing.
Read the full government announcement: ‘Rough sleeping no longer a crime as Vagrancy Act repealed’.