Rough sleeping figures rise but remain in line with national trends

While this is an increase from last year’s figure of five, it remains in line with the national average of 8.2 rough sleepers per 1,000 people. Despite the challenges, Norwich City Council continues to work closely with partners to provide support and accommodation for those at risk of rough sleeping, ensuring that help is available to those who need it.

The annual rough sleeper snapshot survey coordinated by central government encourages local authorities to do a rough sleeper count on a single night of the year, which goes into a government report to establish trends and make recommendations.  

This year, 12 individuals rough sleeping in Norwich were identified on the night of the annual count. While this marks an increase from last year’s figure of 5, it is important to highlight the substantial progress made in preventing homelessness among vulnerable groups and supporting individuals with complex needs. 

                                                                                                 
Of the 12 individuals found rough sleeping on the night of the count none were asylum seekers, refugees, or had been evicted and 9 were already known to us. Moreover, all were offered accommodation. Unfortunately, due to the complexities of these individuals some declined the offer of accommodation. Two weeks after the count six of the nine known to us are now safely in secure accommodation.   

Councillor Beth Jones, the council’s cabinet member for housing, said: "While the numbers may have risen, the underlying story reflects a city committed to addressing homelessness. Each person rough sleeping has been offered support, and the absence of asylum seekers, refugees, or those recently evicted highlights the preventative work we are doing. This work ensures that people do not remain on the streets and have pathways to recovery and stability."

The reasons for homelessness remain multifaceted, with contributing factors such as mental health issues, addiction, relationship breakdowns, and unemployment. We continue to prioritise a person-centred approach, supported by strong partnerships with housing, health, and community organisations. Over the past year, significant progress has been made, including the launch of a Making Every Adult Matter (MEAM) role within the Pathways Norwich outreach service to tackle the barriers faced by individuals with complex needs. Additionally, funding has been secured to help people entrenched in rough sleeping to transition from the streets into other supported accommodation options.

The rough sleeper team at Norwich City Council and the Pathways Norwich Consortium work hard all year around to ensure rough sleeping is prevented wherever possible, and where it does occur it is rare, brief, and non-recurring.

Residents are encouraged to report sightings of rough sleepers through Street Link. 

By working together, Norwich can continue to tackle rough sleeping effectively, ensuring everyone has access to safe and stable housing.