Number of homeless people in London has reached an all-time high
The number of homeless people in London has reached an all-time high. Approximately 12,000 people slept on the streets of the British capital on a Thursday, according to Homeless Link. This is 58% more than a decade ago. The primary cause is reportedly the significantly increased living costs in the Kingdom.
Inflation in the United Kingdom, the sixth largest economy in the world, reached record highs not seen since decades. Additionally, there have been a lack of affordable rental properties for years.
Homeless Link, an association of homeless support organizations, reported that 11,993 people were recorded sleeping rough in London during the reporting year ending in March. This is the highest number ever recorded and a 58% increase over the past ten years. Nearly half of the homeless were British nationals, while the rest were from abroad.
Homeless Link CEO Rick Henderson described the situation as "unbearable." The incoming government, following the parliamentary election in the coming week, must address this issue immediately and ensure "truly affordable and secure housing."
Despite the incoming government's promise of action, the highest level of homelessness in London continues to affect nearly half of the affected individuals, who are British nationals. This alarming trend is almost a doubling from the number ten years ago, with over 12,000 people sleeping on the streets each Thursday. The situation becomes even more acute when considering the city's status as one of the world's financial capitals, hosting a large number of homeless people amongst its population.
