Shelter sounds Christmas homelessness alert

Wednesday, 2 November 2011 9:13 AM

An estimated 35,000 people face the prospect of losing their home before Christmas, according to Shelter.

The homelessness charity's Christmas campaign says 630 people a day – or two a minute – will receive a letter between now and December 25 threatening the loss of their home. That could see them end up in court fighting to keep it.

Jacqui McCluskey, director of policy and communications for Homeless Link, said: “The number of people seeking help from councils because they are homeless has risen by 14% in the last year.

“Although it is difficult to say precisely how far rising house prices and rent costs are contributing to increased homelessness, we believe a lack of affordable housing is a significant factor.

"The housing benefit changes currently being implemented are likely to exacerbate this situation – potentially causing more people to lose their homes and making it harder for people on benefits to find accommodation in the first place."

Shelter's Christmas campaign features six families who were either homeless last Christmas or who are living with the threat of homelessness now.

Natalie ended up in a hostel for six months last year with her young daughter. She said: "It's not something you think you will ever have to go through but the reality is it can happen so easily. I became depressed and just couldn't face each day with nowhere to call home.

"Thank goodness I am now out of that situation and have a permanent roof over my head. I really wouldn't wish it on anyone."

Shelter's research shows that 61 per cent of people who have experienced homelessness or the threat of it say it led directly to a stress-related illness while 70 per cent say they spent most of their time worrying about it.

Paul Shamplina founder of Landlord Action, said: "This year we have seen landlords struggling to pay mortgages more than ever before, hence some taking quite aggressive and prompt action.

"The best solution is by way of communication. Talk to your tenant and try to come to some sort of arrangement for them to pay off the arrears before taking legal action. At this time of year, you could find this more time and cost effective.

"However, this should not give carte blanche to tenants to avoid paying rent, but instead, encourage them to demonstrate their willingness to re-pay and co-operate with sympathetic landlords."

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• homelessness