UK pledges £442m to get every rough sleeper off streets by Christmas

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a £442 million package aimed at ensuring every person sleeping rough in England is offered accommodation before Christmas. The pledge, described by ministers as the most ambitious rough sleeping commitment in a generation, comes as official figures show 4,793 people were sleeping rough in England on any given night — a 96% increase over the past five years. The government said local authorities would be funded to identify and contact every rough sleeper and offer them a genuine pathway off the streets, whether through emergency hostels, supported housing or private rented accommodation. Critics, including charities, welcomed the funding but cautioned that housing supply shortages and mental health support gaps could prevent some people from sustaining accommodation even if initially housed. The announcement coincides with a broader government review of social housing policy.