Homelessness on the rise in Hackney

Government figures released today show first sustained increase in homelessness since 2003.

Homelessness is on the rise in Hackney, government figures out today show.

Statistics from the Department for Communities and Local Government show that 213 households were accepted as homeless by Hackney Council, up 14 per cent, from 187 in the previous quarter.

Now 1,334 homeless Hackney households will spend Christmas in temporary accommodation.

Campbell Robb, chief executive of housing charity Shelter said: “Already in Britain every two minutes someone faces the nightmare of losing their home, so it’s really worrying to see homelessness is on the rise in Hackney.

“We know from the cases we see every day that just one single thing, like a bout of illness, rent increase or drop in income, is all that’s needed push people into spiral of debt and arrears that can lead to the loss of their home.

“At a time of year when many people are taking on extra debt, Shelter is urging anyone struggling with their housing costs to urgently seek advice.

“Shelter’s free housing helpline is there to help when things start to spiral out of control.”

The number of homeless acceptances across the whole of England is also on the rise, up 17 per cent to 11,840 and is the first sustained increase since 2003.

To contact Shelter call free on 0808 800 4444 or visit www.shelter.org.uk to get advice or make a donation today.