‘Homeless deaths surge by 12% amid mounting crisis’

A group that monitors deaths among homeless people in the UK has warned of a “national emergency” after research found a 12% increase in fatalities over 12 months.

The Museum of Homelessness has recently released a report that sheds light on the escalating crisis of homeless deaths in the UK. According to their findings, at least 1,474 people lost their lives while homeless in 2023, marking a significant rise from the 1,313 deaths recorded in 2022.

Deaths among the homeless population surged in England (983), Scotland (206), and Wales (97) in 2023, while Northern Ireland witnessed a decrease in fatalities compared to the previous year.

These figures encompass individuals who were sleeping rough as well as those residing in temporary emergency shelters and other unstable accommodations. Shockingly, the report highlights a staggering 42% increase in the deaths of people sleeping rough, from 109 to 155, within a single year.

The Museum of Homelessness has been actively monitoring homeless deaths through its Dying Homeless Project since 2019. Their data is collected through freedom of information requests, coroners’ inquests, and memorial submissions from grieving family members.

Additionally, the research reveals a 20% increase in suicide rates among young adults experiencing homelessness, with homeless individuals being three times more likely to fall victim to murder.

Out of the 39 reported suicides, 47% were individuals under 35 years old, signifying a 20% surge from the previous year’s findings. Despite general population data indicating that the age group most susceptible to suicide is between 45-54, the Museum of Homelessness emphasises the distinctive risks faced by homeless young people, calling for urgent action to address this pressing issue.

The investigation underscores the heightened vulnerability of homeless individuals to violent deaths when they are reliant on others for shelter or assistance.

Gill Taylor, the strategic lead for the project, expressed disappointment over some local authorities failing to accurately document homeless deaths in their respective areas. Taylor stressed the importance of tracking, reviewing, and learning from these fatalities to prevent further loss of life.

Co-director Matt Turtle highlighted the detrimental impact of 15 years of austerity measures and corrupt practices on the support systems for those living in poverty and homelessness. Turtle urged the current government to take immediate action to avert a deepening crisis and prevent further loss of lives.

As a poignant gesture of remembrance, a national vigil will be held on 17 October outside Downing Street to honour the lives of those lost to homelessness.

The Museum of Homelessness’ report serves as a clarion call for societal introspection and urgent policy interventions to address the grave issue of homeless deaths in the UK. It underscores the dire consequences of systemic neglect and calls for immediate action to safeguard the most vulnerable members of our community. We must collectively strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society where homelessness is eradicated, and every individual is guaranteed the fundamental right to safe and secure housing.

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