Summary
In 2024, a record 1,611 homeless people died in the UK, a 9% increase from the previous year. Many of these deaths were connected to drug use, particularly spice and nitazines, and suicide. The majority of those who died were men living in temporary or supported housing.
Key Facts
- 1,611 homeless people died in the UK in 2024, setting a new record.
- The number of deaths was 9% higher than in 2023, with 1,142 occurring in England.
- Most deaths were linked to drug use or suicide.
- 75% of those who died were men, and 11 were children.
- London had the highest number of deaths, with notable increases in Nottingham and Exeter.
- The data on these deaths is collected by the Museum of Homelessness since official sources stopped in 2022.
- The government is working to address homelessness, with the minister calling the situation "heartbreaking."
- Homelessness in the UK is linked to poverty and unmet healthcare needs, like trauma and anxiety.
