Government figures released by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government show an increase in rough sleeping in Cambridgeshire last year – a rise of 21% from 2023. Local charity Emmaus Cambridge has expressed concern over the rise – from 38 to 46 people – also warning that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of homelessness in the area.
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.
Responding to the updated statistics, Emmaus Cambridge Chief Executive Officer, Donna Talbot, said: “These figures are deeply concerning and reflect what we’re seeing – more people struggling to find a stable home. Recent referrals are highlighting an increase in people rough sleeping, with more people than ever at risk.
“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.”
Donna added: “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.
“Organisations taking the time to understand the root causes of homelessness and the challenging reality for people moving out of homelessness. 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 opportunities, we help people to move forward and avoid returning to homelessness.”
Based in Landbeach, Emmaus Cambridge provides a home, support, and work opportunities for people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion. Emmaus offers more than just a bed for the night. People supported by Emmaus receive a home, tailored support, and the opportunity to gain skills and work opportunities through social enterprises run by the charity. This package of support helps people regain stability, rebuild their confidence, and work towards independence.
To find out more about Emmaus Cambridge, visit
or call 01223 863657.
Rough Sleeping Snapshot 2024: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/announcements/rough-sleeping-snapshot-in-england-autumn-2024
- Emmaus Cambridge supports people who have experienced homelessness, by giving them a home, work opportunities in a social enterprise and an opportunity to regain lost self-esteem to help rebuild their lives.
- There are currently 29 Emmaus communities across the country, supporting more than 850 people who have experienced homelessness in the UK. In addition, there are three Emmaus groups, which are working towards setting up an Emmaus community in their area.
- Social enterprise is central to the Emmaus model as it provides work opportunities to those who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion and also generates funding to maintain communities.
- To find out more visit: emmaus.org.uk/cambridge/
- Social media: com/CambridgeEmmaus
Instagram: instagram.com/emmauscambridge
Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/emmaus-cambridge/
