rough sleeping – The Society of St James https://ssj.org.uk Welcome to The Society of St James Mon, 24 Aug 2026 12:41:56 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://ssj.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/cropped-SSJ-Favicon-32x32.png rough sleeping – The Society of St James https://ssj.org.uk 32 32 What Causes Homelessness in the UK? 10 Common Reasons People Become Homeless https://ssj.org.uk/what-causes-homelessness-in-the-uk-10-common-reasons-people-become-homeless/ Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:59:15 +0000 https://ssj.org.uk/?p=1009615

Homelessness is a complex issue affecting thousands of people across the UK. While rough sleeping is often the most visible form of homelessness, many people experience "hidden homelessness" by staying in temporary accommodation, sofa surfing, or living in unsuitable housing.

 

What Is Homelessness?

A person may be considered homeless if they do not have a safe or secure place to live. This includes people staying in temporary accommodation, hostels, or with friends and family.

 

10 Common Causes of Homelessness in the UK

 

1. Lack of Affordable Housing

A shortage of affordable homes is one of the leading causes of homelessness in the UK. Rising rents and limited housing availability can make it difficult for people on lower incomes to secure stable accommodation.

 

2. Poverty

People experiencing poverty are more vulnerable to homelessness. When income does not cover essential living costs, keeping up with rent and household bills can become increasingly difficult.

 

3. Unemployment

Losing a job or experiencing a significant reduction in income can place people at risk of losing their homes, particularly if they have limited savings.

 

4. Relationship Breakdown

Family disputes, separation, divorce, or being asked to leave the family home can all contribute to homelessness.

 

5. Domestic Abuse

Many people become homeless after leaving an unsafe home. Domestic abuse is recognised as a significant cause of homelessness, particularly among women and children.

 

6. Eviction

People may become homeless if they are evicted from rented accommodation and cannot find suitable alternative housing.

 

7. Mental Health Challenges

Mental health difficulties can affect a person's ability to maintain housing, employment, and relationships. Homelessness can also have a negative impact on mental wellbeing.

 

8. Substance Misuse

Substance misuse can contribute to housing instability for some people. However, it is important to recognise that addiction may also develop as a result of the trauma and stress associated with homelessness.

 

9. Leaving Institutions

People leaving prison, hospital, care, or the armed forces may face housing difficulties if suitable accommodation is not arranged before they leave.

 

10. Social Exclusion and Discrimination

Some groups face additional barriers when accessing housing, employment, and support services, increasing their risk of homelessness

 

At The Society of St James:

 

We are committed to empowering people experiencing homelessness through person centred support, safe accommodation, and pathways to lasting independence. Working together to create meaningful, long term change for those experiencing homelessness.

]]> What Is Rough Sleeping? Understanding the Difference Between Rough Sleeping and Homelessness https://ssj.org.uk/what-is-rough-sleeping-understanding-the-difference-between-rough-sleeping-and-homelessness/ Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:32:14 +0000 https://ssj.org.uk/?p=1009608

Many people use the terms rough sleeping and homelessness interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference is important when discussing housing issues and the support available to vulnerable individuals.

 

What Is Rough Sleeping?

It is someone who has no access to safe, stable accommodation and spends the night in public spaces or other unsuitable locations.

Rough sleeping is often the most visible form of homelessness, but it represents only a portion of the wider homeless population.

 

Homelessness vs Rough Sleeping

When comparing homelessness vs rough sleeping, it's important to recognise that not everyone experiencing homelessness sleeps rough.

A person may be considered homeless if they:

  • Are staying in temporary accommodation or emergency shelters
  • Are sofa surfing with friends or family
  • Live in hostels or supported housing
  • Face imminent eviction with nowhere else to go
  • Live in accommodation that is unsafe or unsuitable

However, a rough sleeper is specifically someone sleeping outside or in places not intended for living.

 

Key Difference

  • Homelessness is a broad term covering anyone without a secure, permanent home.
  • Rough sleeping is a specific form of homelessness where a person sleeps outdoors or in unsuitable locations.

This means that while all rough sleepers are homeless, not all homeless people are rough sleepers.

 

Why Understanding Rough Sleeping Matters

People who are rough sleeping often face increased risks to their physical and mental health. Exposure to harsh weather, lack of access to healthcare, personal safety concerns, and social isolation can make it difficult to move forward without support.

Recognising the signs of rough sleeping helps communities, charities, and local services provide timely assistance and connect individuals with accommodation, healthcare, and long term support.

 

Supporting People Experiencing Rough Sleeping

Addressing rough sleeping requires more than simply providing shelter. Many individuals need ongoing support with housing, employment, health services, financial difficulties, and rebuilding social connections.

By understanding the difference between homelessness and rough sleeping, we can better appreciate the challenges people face and help ensure support reaches those who need it most.

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