Summary
More than 60,000 households with disabilities in England faced homelessness in the past year, a rise of nearly 75% since 2019, according to official data. During the same period, social housing available for disabled individuals decreased. The government stated it is providing £1 billion to local councils to help prevent homelessness.
Key Facts
- Over 60,000 disabled households in England faced homelessness last year.
- This number represents a 75% increase since 2019.
- Social housing for disabled people dropped from 20% to 16% between 2022/23 and 2023/24.
- 21% of households facing homelessness had physical health issues or disabilities in the last part of 2023.
- Government allocated £1 billion to councils to help stop homelessness.
- Labour MPs have voiced concerns about cuts to disability benefits.
- A welfare overhaul, including changes to a benefit called Pip, was announced in March.
- Homelessness charity Crisis urges the government to build 90,000 new social homes each year.
