Figures published today from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government on statutory homelessness in England paint a deeply worrying picture for families across England.

Too many children are living in temporary accommodation, their lives shaped by instability. Behind every number is a family under immense pressure and a child whose future is being disrupted. No child should have their potential restricted by housing insecurity, yet those who experience the trauma of unstable housing are far more likely to face homelessness as adults.

At Depaul UK, we see the human impact of this crisis every day. Young people who are homeless and seeking our support are almost always facing family breakdown. Whether a family is trapped in unsuitable or temporary housing or fracturing under intense personal pressures, the root issue is the same: a systemic lack of early support.

The Government’s commitment to end rough sleeping is welcome. Yet these figures are a stark reminder that we cannot simply respond to homelessness once it has happened; prevention must be the priority. Children and young people must be at the heart of the Government’s approach, backed by sustained investment in early intervention, frontline prevention services, and genuinely affordable housing.

Without urgent action, more young people will face this devastating insecurity. Homelessness is not inevitable. With the right support at the right time, we can ensure every young person has the opportunity to build a safe, secure, and hopeful future.