What causes homelessness?
A combination of structural, social, and individual factors contribute to homelessness in the UK.
These issues cause people immense stress and strain.
Key factors include:
Housing Shortage and Affordability
There is a chronic lack of affordable housing across the UK. High property prices and rents, particularly in cities, make it an uphill battle for people on low incomes to secure housing.
Over 1 million people are waiting for social homes – including over 145,000 children.
Successive governments’ failure to build adequate social housing has left millions without access to safe, stable, financially-accessible housing. Meanwhile, short tenancy agreements and ‘no fault’ evictions can leave people struggling to find a place to call home.
Eviction from a privately rented home is one of the leading causes of homelessness.
Welfare Reforms
Changes to the welfare system, including the introduction of Universal Credit and the capping of housing benefits, have left many people struggling to cover their housing costs. Delays and reductions in benefits often push individuals into rent arrears and eventual eviction.
Economic Factors
Economic downturns and unemployment lead many people to financial instability. Inadequate wages and job insecurity are also critical factors in people’s inability to afford housing.
The continued rise of zero-hour contracts and increased living costs means many people don’t have a regular income, making it a struggle to manage budgets and maintain housing payments.
Social Factors
Family Breakdown
Relationship breakdowns, domestic abuse, and family conflicts are significant contributors to homelessness. Individuals in abusive relationships may have no choice but to leave their homes.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, you can find YMCA Together’s advice and support services here.
Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Problems
Mental health issues and substance abuse problems can lead to homelessness. People with severe mental health conditions or with active involvement in alcohol or illicit drug misuse may struggle to maintain employment and housing.
Click here for advice and support for drug and alcohol problems. For mental health advice and support, click here.
Individual Factors
Personal Circumstances
Personal crises, such as job loss, illness, or grief, can lead to homelessness-especially if there is no support network available. People who lack strong social networks or support from family and friends are more vulnerable to becoming homeless when facing financial or personal difficulties.
Systemic Issues
Inadequate Support Services
Insufficient funding for support services, including mental health care, addiction treatment, and employment assistance, leaves many individuals without the help they need to avoid or break free from homelessness.
Ineffective Homelessness Prevention Strategies
A lack of effective early intervention and prevention strategies can result in people slipping through the cracks and ending up homeless.
Discrimination and Inequality
LGBTQ+ people and people of colour are more likely to struggle to find a safe, secure home.
Individuals leaving institutions such as prisons, care systems, or hospitals without proper support and reintegration plans are at high risk of experiencing homelessness.