The number of people sleeping rough in Knowsley, Merseyside, has increased by 160% in recent years. A new council report highlights the growing scale of homelessness in the area and the challenges local authorities face in finding long-term solutions. This significant rise from 40 to 104 known cases has prompted Knowsley Council to review its strategy for the coming years.
Key Takeaways
- Rough sleeping in Knowsley has risen by 160%, from 40 to 104 reported cases.
- Knowsley experiences a higher rate of homelessness than the national average in England.
- Loss of private sector tenancies and breakdown of informal living arrangements are key drivers.
- The council is implementing a new Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy for 2025-2030.
Knowsley Faces Growing Homelessness Crisis
Knowsley Council's cabinet discussed the borough's Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy for 2025 to 2030 during a meeting on September 24. The report presented to councillors in Huyton's Municipal Buildings revealed a concerning trend. The review found that Knowsley's homelessness rate is higher than the average for England. Specifically, it was 4% higher during the period from 2021/22 to 2023/24.
Current figures show that 1,147 households are experiencing homelessness in the borough. This number includes individuals and families who lack a stable home. The data underscores the significant pressure on local services.
Fact: Rising Numbers
- Rough sleeping increase: 160% (from 40 to 104 known cases).
- Overall homelessness increase: 4% (to 1,147 households).
- These figures cover the period from 2021/22 to 2023/24.
Primary Drivers of Increased Homelessness
The council report identifies two main factors contributing to the surge in homelessness and rough sleeping. The first is the loss of private sector tenancies. Many individuals are facing 'no fault evictions' as landlords choose to exit the rental market.
The second factor is the breakdown of informal living arrangements. Family and friends are increasingly unable or unwilling to continue accommodating individuals. This leaves many with no alternative housing options. These combined pressures are placing significant strain on homelessness support services.
Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, stated: "The main causes of homelessness within Knowsley were the end of private sector tenancies and the breakdown in informal living arrangements with family and friends."
Impact of Private Rental Market Changes
The reduction in private rented sector housing is a particular concern for Knowsley. The borough already has a lower proportion of private rented homes compared to the England average. When landlords leave the market, it reduces the overall supply of available housing. This scarcity leads to increased rental premiums. Landlords can charge higher rents for the remaining properties, making housing less affordable for many residents.
This situation creates a challenging environment for efforts to reduce homelessness. Lower supply and higher costs push more people out of stable housing. The demand for council homelessness services then increases, creating a cycle of escalating need.
Background: Council's Duty
Knowsley Council has a legal duty to review homelessness and develop strategies to address it. This duty has been in place since 2002. Strategies must be renewed every five years to ensure they remain relevant and effective. The current review led to the new 2025-2030 strategy.
Developing the New Homelessness Strategy
Cllr Tony Brennan presented the report on the borough’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025 to 2030. He explained the council's ongoing commitment to tackling these issues. In September 2024, the housing consultancy Campbell Tickell was commissioned to conduct a comprehensive review of homelessness in Knowsley. This review formed the foundation for the new strategy.
The review provided essential insights into the local situation. It confirmed the rising numbers of homeless households and individuals sleeping rough. The strategy now outlines the council’s priorities and ambitions for the next five years. It includes a clear action plan designed to help services respond effectively to homelessness.
Council's Response and Future Plans
The new strategy aims to prevent homelessness where possible. It focuses on early intervention and support services. The council recognizes that prevention is not always achievable. In such cases, the strategy aims to make homelessness as brief as possible. It also seeks to prevent reoccurrence.
Cllr Brennan added: "We do, however, recognise that it is not always possible to prevent homelessness, and where this is the case, we will wait to ensure that this is as brief as possible and does not reoccur." This statement reflects the council's dual approach of prevention and rapid rehousing.
The strategy includes plans to work with private landlords to encourage them to remain in the rental market. It also explores options for increasing the supply of affordable housing. Community partnerships will be crucial in supporting vulnerable individuals and families.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Solutions
The visible increase in rough sleeping is a critical concern. The number of people reported to be sleeping rough each month has more than doubled since 2023. Over the past five years, the number of households in temporary accommodation each night has risen from 40 to 104. These figures highlight the immediate need for action.
The new strategy will focus on several key areas. These include improving access to advice and support services, increasing the provision of temporary accommodation, and developing pathways to permanent housing. Collaboration with local charities and housing associations will be vital for success. The goal is to create a more resilient system that can better support those at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
Addressing the root causes, such as the shortage of affordable private rentals, will require long-term planning and investment. The council remains committed to working with regional and national partners to secure resources and implement effective solutions.