According to the latest figures, at least 1,611 homeless individuals lost their lives in the UK last year, including 11 children. The Museum of Homelessness compiles data annually from freedom of information requests, coroner inquests, and memorials provided by grieving family members.
The reported 2024 figure represents a 9% increase from the previous year, which was 1,474. In 2022, the number stood at 1,313. Among the 11 children who passed away in 2024, four were infants who had not yet celebrated their first birthday.
Homelessness minister Alison McGovern MP characterized the number of deaths as an «abject failure that cannot be tolerated.»
Of the recorded deaths, 44% were linked to drugs and alcohol. Across the four nations, there were 1,142 deaths in England, 211 in Northern Ireland, 168 in Scotland, and 90 in Wales.
The Museum’s Dying Homeless Project, ongoing since 2019, believes that their figures likely underestimate the true extent of deaths and homelessness.
Some local authorities may only document a death if the individual had applied to the council as homeless and passed away in temporary accommodation.
Homelessness encompasses not only rough sleepers but also individuals residing in establishments like bed and breakfasts, hostels, and other short-term housing provided by local authorities.
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Recent government statistics, released in July, indicate a record number of households in temporary accommodation in England – totaling 131,140.
An investigation by Sky News last year revealed that children are spending over five years in such housing.
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Matthew Turtle, the museum’s project director, emphasized that their data «illustrates the ongoing failure towards homeless individuals» and urged the government to take «urgent action.»
Minister McGovern stated that the government is «enhancing access to secure accommodation while bolstering support services.»
«We must not normalize this,» she added.
Last year, Labour committed £1bn to councils for addressing homelessness.