Deaths among people affected by homelessness in the UK have risen by 9% in a year, according to statistics from the Museum of Homelessness’s Dying Homeless Project.
The research suggests at least 1,611 lives of people experiencing homelessness were cut short in 2024. This had increased from 1,474 deaths in 2023 and 1,313 deaths in 2022.
Data had been gathered through freedom of information requests, coroner inquests and memorials submitted by bereaved family members.
Responding to the news, Emma Haddad, Chief Executive of St Mungo’s, said:
“These latest statistics showing a rise in deaths among people affected by homelessness is heart-breaking, and further proof of just how serious and potentially life-threatening all forms of homelessness can be.
People who die while experiencing homelessness are on average at least 30 years younger than the general population. At St Mungo’s, we’re seeing the damaging consequences of rough sleeping, day in, day out, and are working hard to help people off the streets and to get the help and support they need.
We are looking forward to publication of the Government’s homelessness strategy that we hope will embed cross-government working and ensure that health and welfare and a whole range of services are brought together to tackle the growing homelessness crisis.
At St Mungo’s, we will continue doing everything we can to prevent homelessness, and support those affected to rebuild their lives for good.”
