Hidden homelessness is a type of homelessness that includes people staying temporarily with others, sleeping in cars and places not designed for living, or seeking shelter in public buildings.
These forms of homelessness are often out of sight and under-counted in official statistics. People often experience hidden homelessness because of circumstances beyond their control, and face significant challenges while remaining largely unseen.
Keep reading for exclusive insight and figures uncovered by Crisis about the true scale of hidden homelessness in the UK.
Because hidden homelessness takes place away from view, it’s not fully captured in government figures. Crisis’ latest research shows that an estimated 208,600 households across Great Britain experience hidden homelessness on any given night. This includes people who are sofa surfing or living in unconventional accommodation such as cars, sheds and garages.
The number of individuals and families in these shocking situations has risen by 30% since 2020.
These hidden homelessness statistics show the scale of the problem and how many people have no choice but to move between unsafe and unstable places.
Hidden homelessness affects people of all ages and backgrounds, but certain life events can put people at particular risk, leading to them having to rely on unsafe or temporary arrangements. Such as:
Our research also shows that women move more frequently, are more likely to sofa surf and face higher levels of pressure, exploitation and violence during hidden homelessness.
In our study, 40% of people facing hidden homelessness moved location more than six times in a typical month, showing just how unstable this form of homelessness can be.
Hidden homelessness places immense pressure on a person’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. The stress of constantly moving, feeling unsafe or relying on others for a place to sleep can have catastrophic effects on health and wellbeing.
The uncertainty of not knowing where you will sleep each night can heighten stress levels, disrupt sleep and make it difficult to manage existing health conditions. This ongoing strain can also worsen depression, trauma and feelings of isolation, especially if people have limited access to support networks or private space.
In our report on hidden homelessness, we heard from respondents that:
Mental health support is vital for people facing homelessness and is a key part of the support that Crisis offers. Through our Skylight centres we provide trauma-informed mental health support, access to healthcare and help to find stable accommodation.
Everyone should have a safe and stable home, so Crisis works throughout Great Britain to support people experiencing all forms of homelessness. This includes those living in hidden and unreported situations. We help people find stable housing, improve their wellbeing and rebuild financial security by providing benefit and financial advice, and employment and skills training.
The findings from our independent research also help us advocate for long-term solutions to homelessness and influence policymakers so that hidden homelessness is properly recognised and prevented.
There are many ways to support Crisis’s mission to end homelessness for good. You can take part in fundraising events, volunteering or join our campaigns for lasting change.
Help us support those experiencing hidden homelessness and be part of the change by visiting our Get Involved page. Or stay up to date with our latest fundraising activities and community events and help us to raise vital funds and awareness.
If you’re staying somewhere unsafe or think you may lose your home, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible.
You can contact your local council to explain your situation or get in touch with Crisis for advice and support.
Visit our How to Get Help page to find the support you need today. No one should feel alone when facing homelessness, and we’re here to help.