London’s CHAIN homelessness database have released their Q1 report, detailing the levels of rough sleeping and homelessness in the capital. The report found positive news in the capital’s rough sleeping figures, an unusual headline amidst what is nationally record levels of homelessness.
3,959 people were recorded as sleeping rough in the capital in April to June 2026, a decrease of 10% on April-June 2025, as well as 1,685 people recorded as sleeping rough for the first time, a 16% reduction when compared with 2025. Those sleeping rough for the first time accounted for 43% of total rough sleeping figures, a slight reduction from 46% this time last year.
Rick Henderson, CEO of Homeless Link, the national membership body for frontline homelessness services, commented: “For too long, high levels of rough sleeping in London and across the country have been the norm. Thousands upon thousands of lives have been damaged, let down by systems meant to support them. What’s more, people sleeping on the streets earlier in the summer were subjected to oppressive heatwaves, putting health and lives at risk. This is only likely to worsen as extreme weather events become more common.
“But we have reached a seminal moment where real change seems possible. Recent CHAIN reports show that the London Mayor’s targeted rough sleeping plan and the immeasurable efforts of local homelessness services are working. Now, with the new Prime Minister leading a determined national drive to end rough sleeping, and being a keen advocate of devolution, we are optimistic that the tide can be turned, ensuring that everyone has a place to call home and the support they need to keep it.”
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The figures provide a positive first step for Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who claimed the no.1 priority for his government was ending rough sleeping during his tenure. Although homelessness is still at record levels, a year-on-year reduction is an encouraging sign in the capital, a city that has been drastically impacted by the housing crisis.
John Glenton, Chief Care and Support Officer at Riverside, said:
“It’s very encouraging to see a significant and sustained reduction in rough sleeping in London.
“And heartening, that we have both a London Mayor and a Prime Minister committed to eradicating rough sleeping.
“It is vital to remember that we have successfully tackled this issue before. Within the past two decades when homelessness and supported housing services across the country were sufficiently funded, homelessness was halved and rough sleeping was cut by more than two-thirds.
“With the right mix of funding, services which meet the growing complexity of need, and tailored support, we can achieve this again.”
CHAIN figures are thought to be one of the most accurate and informed views of homelessness available. Due to the nature of homelessness, it is difficult to estimate the true number of those rough sleeping who do not engage with support services, as well as those who suffer from “hidden homelessness”, such as living in cars or staying with friends. Whilst the path towards ending homelessness is still a long and complex one, these findings from CHAIN are a rare positive amongst consistently record-breaking headlines.
