The latest London rough sleeping data shows why the Renters' Rights Bill is needed

31st July 2024

According to the latest report from the Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN), between April and June 2024 outreach teams in London saw 4223 people sleeping rough. This represents a 29% increase on the same period last year.

Of the 4223, 1931 were sleeping rough for the very first time – a 20% increase compared to last year. These figures are concerningly high, fitting in with a trend of worryingly high increases in recent years.

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Here is what our CEO, Jo Carter, had to say:

"The latest CHAIN report should be a clear sign that action is needed. Far too many people continue to be left without a safe and secure home, and this issue will not get better on its own.

We are encouraged by the new government’s Renters’ Rights Bill proposed in the King’s Speech. Our message to the government is this: show that you are serious about tackling homelessness. Push the bill forward as a top priority, ban no-fault evictions and limit rent increases without any delays or loopholes. It’s in your power to give tenants more security in their homes and slow down the flow of people from the private rented sector into homelessness."