In response to the Government’s latest homelessness statistics for England (released 30 April 2024), David Smith, CEO of homelessness charity Oasis Community Housing, said:
“These shocking figures show, once again, a rising number of people facing the daily crisis of homelessness – a 16% jump on the previous year.
“It is particularly concerning that so many single women with children, and those escaping domestic abuse, are facing homelessness through prevention and relief duties. We know the life-changing difference that specialist trauma-informed support can make through our own mother-and-baby projects and domestic abuse support services.
“UK Government needs to stop throwing a small amount of money at homelessness when it becomes an issue. It needs to ensure that money is spent upfront, more strategically.
“The need for more available, accessible housing is clear and something must be done. Yet we also know trauma and homelessness go hand-in-hand. 94 per cent of people experiencing homelessness have suffered trauma, such as domestic abuse. Ensuring trauma-informed support is embedded in all work with people facing homelessness would change everything.”