As we mark World Homeless Day (10 October), new figures reveal a heartbreaking rise in the number of people dying while homeless in the UK — a record 1,611 deaths in 2024.
The figure is 9% higher than the year before, with the majority of deaths being linked to suicide or drugs, with spice and nitazenes becoming increasingly deadly say The Museum of Homelessness, which compiled the data.
The statistics shine a devastating light on the dangers of homelessness.
“Being homeless is dangerous,” says Sarah Lister, CEO of Oasis Community Housing. “Sadly, people often tell us the threats, abuse and violence they face. There’s the freezing cold nights. And the deep despair that comes from latent trauma, which can lead to substance use as a way to cope. It’s a brutal reality that means people facing homelessness, on average, die in their mid-40s.
“But behind every statistic is a person. Someone who has been hurt, ignored or failed by the system. At Oasis Community Housing, we walk alongside people as they rebuild their lives. We help them tackle the trauma that so often drives addiction and homelessness – and we offer hope.”
This past year, Oasis Community Housing has increased its outreach efforts. Teams are now out on the streets most days of the week, offering support to people sleeping rough. A nurse is now based at both of the charity’s drop-in centres, providing essential healthcare — from treating minor injuries and infections to helping with more serious conditions.
Alongside this, Oasis Community Housing’s supported housing continues to provide stability for young mothers, teenagers and adults experiencing homelessness. While its Housing First programme delivers intensive, long-term support to help people break the cycles of homelessness and move forward with their lives.
As World Homeless Day encourages people around the world to reflect, raise awareness, and take action, Sarah adds:
“We can all do something. If you see someone sleeping rough, alert Streetlink so local outreach teams can find that person and offer support. Or you can donate to your local homelessness charity, ensuring your money goes to the people who need it most.”
Find out more about our work, or you can make a donation this World Homeless Day. Thank you.