Inside housing have released some rough sleeping data based on 22 local authorities that they contacted. Comparing the 2010 numbers with those they received there was a 40% increase (Leeds increasing from 6 to 11 in 2011).
I really hope this rise is not going to stimulate another drive to get the numbers down! What is important here is the people who make up those numbers. All to often we end up with government being slated for the numbers which results in an entirely number focused response. We need to stop providing a bit of first aid at the scene of the accident and start some real treatment for those in need and to look a little further than the vehicles involved when thinking about future accident prevention.
The report can be found at:
http://www.insidehousing.co.uk/care/rough-sleeping-figures-rocket-across-england/6520394.article