As we mark 20 years of service to the Telford and Wrekin community, the national picture of homelessness reminds us why our mission remains as critical as ever. Across England, rising numbers of rough sleepers and households in temporary accommodation underscore a deepening crisis that demands urgent action, and community-led solutions.
Rough Sleeping Reaches a 20-Year High
In Autumn 2024, 4,667 people were recorded sleeping rough across England, a 20% increase on the previous year and a staggering 164% rise since 2010. This marks the third consecutive year that rough sleeping has increased nationally, reversing the progress made during the pandemic.
Behind every number is a story. At KiP Telford, we see these stories daily, people arriving at our hub after nights spent outside in the cold, individuals pushed to the margins of society through circumstances beyond their control.
We’re here to change that.
Understanding the Faces Behind the Numbers
National data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities paints a stark picture:
- 82% of rough sleepers are male
- 62% are UK nationals
- 82% are aged 26 or over
This demographic snapshot reinforces the importance of tailored, supportive interventions that go beyond emergency shelter. KiP’s approach, offering emergency, temporary, and long-term accommodation, ensures that every individual has the chance to rebuild their life with dignity.
The Hidden Crisis: Children in Temporary Accommodation
Another disturbing trend is the sharp rise in families living in unstable conditions. As of September 2024:
- 126,040 households were in temporary accommodation in England
- 164,040 children were included in those households, the highest number since records began in 1998
This reality isn’t abstract. It’s about children growing up without the security of a home, about families stretched to breaking point, and about the urgent need for local solutions like those KiP continues to offer.
KiP’s Role in Telford
In Telford, the pressures mirror the national picture. Every day, KiP is inundated with requests for help, from those sleeping rough, couch-surfing, or facing eviction.
But we’re not standing still. Over the last two decades, we’ve:
- Offered a lifeline through our drop-in hub
- Supported the aims of the Homelessness Reduction Act
- Partnered with local organisations to create housing solutions
- Played a part in launching services like Maninplace
And we’re committed to continuing this work, with your support.
What You Can Do
This crisis is real, and it’s growing. But so is our resolve.
You can help by:
- Donating: One-off or monthly donations make a huge difference.
- Fundraising: Run an event, hold a bake sale, or get your workplace involved.
- Spreading the Word: Share our posts, talk about homelessness, and advocate for change.
- Volunteering: Whether it’s an hour a week or more, your time is invaluable.
Together, We Can Respond to the Crisis
Homelessness is not inevitable. It’s solvable, with the right resources, support, and community will. At KiP Telford, we believe that everyone deserves a place to call home. Thank you for helping us make that a reality, one person at a time.
