A record number of households without settled homes
Government figures published in August 2026 show that 135,580 households were living in temporary accommodation on 31 March 2026, a 3.6% increase compared with a year earlier. Of those, 86,460 households included children, and 177,530 children were living in temporary accommodation — 5.2% more than a year before.
These figures reflect the growing pressure on councils trying to secure suitable accommodation. Temporary accommodation is an essential safety net, but it should also provide a stable foundation from which households can take their next steps.
Rough sleeping has also reached a new high
In the government's autumn 2025 single-night snapshot, an estimated 4,793 people were sleeping rough across England. This was 3% higher than the previous year and the highest figure recorded using this measure. The South West recorded 585 people, up 11% from 2024, while the East Midlands recorded 387, down 2%.
The snapshot is an estimate of people sleeping rough on a particular night, not the total number who experienced rough sleeping over a year. Homelessness also extends far beyond the streets, including people staying in temporary accommodation or moving between insecure arrangements.
Housing insecurity is rarely just one problem
Between January and March 2026, 83,850 households were assessed as owed a homelessness prevention or relief duty. Of these, 61.8% were recorded as having at least one support need. Reported needs included histories of mental health problems, physical ill health or disability, and experiences of domestic abuse.
These circumstances underline why a housing response cannot always end with providing keys. People may also need time, trust and access to relevant services to rebuild confidence, manage finances, maintain accommodation and plan for the future.
What this means for local authorities and housing partners
The pressure on temporary accommodation calls for reliable, well-managed properties and constructive relationships between councils, landlords, accommodation providers and specialist support services. Suitable housing can offer security during a difficult period, while joined-up support can help address the circumstances contributing to housing instability.
Harbourstone CIC's perspective
Our team has worked with local authorities for a number of years to accommodate people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. We believe people should have a safe place to live while they work to change their circumstances. We recognise that progress takes time and that a patient, respectful approach can make it easier to rebuild engagement with services and plan a sustainable move forward.
We welcome conversations with local authorities, property owners and community partners who share that commitment.
Sources and further reading
- MHCLG: Statutory homelessness in England, January–March 2026 (published 13 August 2026)
- MHCLG: Rough sleeping snapshot in England, autumn 2025 (published 26 February 2026)
Figures refer to England and the stated reporting dates. This article is an interpretation of published government statistics, not an official government publication.