The Guardian view on rough sleeping: Burnham’s laudable target is in danger of being missed | Editorial

Andy Burnham’s pledge to end rough sleeping is at risk of being missed as housing shortages and unaffordable rents push more people on to the streets. The article argues that local councils and charities can help people rebuild their lives, but lasting progress also depends on tackling the wider housing crisis.

England had 8,748 rough sleepers in June, about 1,000 more than in January; separately, 135,600 families were in temporary accommodation in March, 90% more than a decade earlier. Funding for rough sleeping services is due to reach almost £900 million next year, but winter shelters and hostels alone cannot meet the need: people may require ongoing health and addiction support, while prison releases add pressure on services. The article calls for more social housing, rent controls and housing allowances that reflect reasonable costs.