Officials from the mayor’s office have expressed optimism following a reported 10% decline in rough sleeping in London during the first quarter of the year. This reduction is seen as a positive outcome of Sadiq Khan’s strategic action plan aimed at addressing homelessness in the capital.
Significant Reduction in Rough Sleeping
The latest data from the Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN) indicates that 3,959 individuals were recorded as rough sleepers in the first quarter of 2026/27. This figure marks a decrease from the 4,392 individuals documented in the same period the previous year, continuing a trend that saw an 11% reduction in rough sleeping in the preceding quarter.
Context of the Mayor’s Action Plan
A spokesperson for the mayor commented,
„It is encouraging to see a further fall in rough sleeping in London. This shows that the Mayor’s Rough Sleeping Plan of Action, launched last year, is having an impact but we know there is more work to do.“
The action plan, initiated in May of the previous year, aims to eliminate rough sleeping by 2030 and includes a £10 million investment in establishing a network of Ending Homelessness Hubs, alongside the expansion of the Homes off the Streets program.
Financial Commitment to Combat Homelessness
City Hall has allocated a budget of £55 million for rough sleeping initiatives in 2026/27, which is reported to be six times larger than the budget under the previous mayor. Since 2016, over 20,000 individuals have been assisted in transitioning off the streets, highlighting the ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness.
The mayor’s office reiterated its dedication to collaborating with the Government, London Councils, and various organizations within the homelessness sector to further combat rough sleeping and foster a safer, more equitable London for all residents.
Quellen: housingtoday.co.uk, WirtschaftsWoche
Bildquelle: depositphotos
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