Homelessness Minister Florence Eshalomi has stated that rising rents are among the factors contributing to homelessness and rough sleeping. In a written parliamentary answer, Ms Eshalomi identified poverty, housing availability, and affordability as "root causes" of these issues.
The minister also noted that many people on low incomes find it difficult to afford increasing rents in the private rental market. She highlighted the government's Renters' Rights Act, which aims to empower tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases, outlaw rental bidding, and prevent landlords from demanding large amounts of rent in advance.
The government has announced plans to get rough sleepers off the streets by Christmas, as part of a £442 million package. This initiative will provide emergency accommodation and practical support for housing and health needs.
Despite Prime Minister Andy Burnham's pledge to end rough sleeping, recent figures from the Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN) indicate an increase in rough sleeping in London. Between April and June this year, 3,959 people were recorded sleeping rough in the capital. While this represents a 10% decrease compared to the same quarter last year, it is a 53% increase over the past five years and a 47% rise over the last decade.