Andy Burnham is under pressure to establish a specialized homelessness unit within the government to fulfill his promise of eradicating rough sleeping. The Prime Minister has committed to addressing the issue of rough sleeping in the UK and various charities and individuals affected by homelessness have outlined steps to put an end to it.
Recent data revealed a concerning increase in the number of individuals sleeping rough on the streets of England in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year of escalation. Approximately 4,793 people were recorded sleeping in tents, doorways, and parks on a single night in autumn 2025, showing a 3% rise from the previous year and surpassing the peak number of 4,751 in 2017.
Advocates from Crisis have called for the creation of a new unit that would coordinate efforts among government departments, mayors, local leaders, and delivery partners to tackle this pressing issue under the leadership of Downing Street. They have recommended leveraging the Housing First initiative as a model for a national strategy and expediting the allocation of the already committed £39 billion for social and affordable housing.
Matt Downie, CEO of Crisis, lauded the Prime Minister for prioritizing the end of rough sleeping from the outset of his tenure, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the most visible and perilous form of homelessness. He highlighted the harsh realities faced by thousands of individuals forced to sleep on the streets, enduring violence and hardships that no one should have to endure.
Before announcing his commitment to end rough sleeping, Mr. Burnham visited the Passage Homeless Charity in London to volunteer and listen to the experiences of those grappling with homelessness. During his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, he pledged to eliminate rough sleeping in the region by 2020, achieving significant progress initially before witnessing a resurgence in figures.
Additionally, Mr. Burnham contributed 15% of his salary towards a homelessness fund and the “A Bed Every Night” initiative during his mayoral term. St Mungos’ homeless charity emphasized the pivotal role of housing in ending rough sleeping and emphasized the need for comprehensive support services for individuals with substance abuse issues or specific needs.
Emma Haddad, CEO of St Mungo’s, called for structured interventions to prevent individuals from returning to the streets after being discharged from healthcare facilities, prisons, or asylum processes. She advocated for the expansion of long-term support teams to assist individuals over an extended period.
Former rough sleeper Lee, now a volunteer supporting others, urged for enhanced outreach programs to inform individuals about available support services and activities. He stressed the importance of community engagement and access to free or low-cost initiatives to prevent isolation and promote mental well-being.
Kerri Douglas, who experienced homelessness in Westminster from ages 13 to 24, welcomed the government’s interventions and stressed the significance of compassion in addressing homelessness. She expressed hope for a more empathetic approach towards homelessness and assistance that genuinely aids individuals in need.