CIH responds to the latest homelessness statistics

The latest statutory homelessness statistics for the first quarter of 2025 (January to March) show that the total number of households in temporary accommodation (TA) continues to rise. At the end of March 2025, 131,140 households were living in TA an increase of 11.8 per cent, two-thirds (63.4 per cent) of which are households with children.

There are some improvements to report. In comparison to the same time last year, the number of households owed a main homelessness duty fell by 7.9 per cent. Additionally, those securing accommodation at the end of both relief and prevention duties are higher than they were for the past two years. The use of bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation has also dropped.  

Section 21s remain a leading cause as to why households present as homeless. We continue to monitor the Renter’s Rights Bill’s passage through parliament which will put an end to no fault evictions.  

Source: UK Government accredited official statistics: Statutory homelessness in England: January to March 2025

Responding to the statistics Stephanie Morphew, policy lead on homelessness for CIH commented:

“The significant funding package announced earlier this month by the government to boost the supply of social homes was welcomed by CIH and the sector more widely. However, there is an urgent need to support children living in TA now. For those children who represent 63.4 per cent of those in TA, we urge the government to commit to mitigating the harms of experiencing homelessness via through tailored support in the forthcoming homelessness strategy.”