Government figures released by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government show an increase in rough sleeping in Gloucestershire last year – a rise of 35% from 2023.
Local charity Emmaus Gloucestershire has expressed concern over the rise – from 31 to 42 people across the six districts – also warning that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of homelessness in the area.
Responding to the updated statistics, Lorraine Watson, Operations Manager at Emmaus Gloucestershire said: “These figures are deeply concerning and reflect what we’re seeing locally – more people struggling to find a stable home. We’ve seen rough sleeping increase in recent years, and more people than ever are now at risk.
The data was collected as part of the government’s Rough Sleeping Snapshot in England. Released each year in February, these statistics provide a snapshot of the number of people sleeping rough during a single autumn night in local authorities across England.
Lorraine added: “However these statistics are just the tip of the iceberg. Many people experiencing homelessness are hidden – sofa surfing, staying in temporary accommodation, or living in unsafe conditions just to avoid the streets. They don’t appear in these figures, but they still need urgent support.
“We need long-term solutions. More investment in homelessness services and social housing is essential to prevent more people from being pushed into rough sleeping. Alongside this, organisations like Emmaus play a vital role in giving people the chance to rebuild their lives. By providing a stable home, tailored support, and work experience opportunities, we help people to move forward and avoid returning to homelessness.”
Emmaus Gloucestershire, based in Gloucester, with shops in Cheltenham, Stroud and Nailsworth, provides a home, support, training and work experience opportunities for up to 26 people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion. This package of support helps people regain stability, rebuild their confidence, and work towards independence.
Martin, who has been supported by Emmaus Gloucestershire since 2019 shared his experience: “At 22, I got kicked out and went on to spend three months on the streets. Most days I worried about whether I was going to be beaten up or not, and my problem with drinking escalated to cope. Eventually I went to rehab, where I was put on medication, attended support groups and began attending regular AA meetings.
“I later joined Emmaus Gloucestershire and it’s like a stepping stone. It’s helping me gain new skills before I move forward. I’m gaining work experience in the charity shops, and Emmaus has supported me in learning to read while also funding my courses in Portable Appliance Testing, First Aid, and driving lessons.
“For anyone reading this who may be in a similar position to what I once was, I want to tell them that help is out there. Go to the council or find out how your local services can help you. It might take a few tries, but don’t give up.”
To find out more about Emmaus Gloucestershire, visit www.emmaus.org.uk/gloucestershire
