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Why Homelessness Matters

Homelessness destroys lives and damages communities. It breeds despair, anger and desperation and leads to mental and physical illness.

It stands in the way of tackling health inequalities, raising education standards and getting more people into work.

It undermines independence, freedom, choice and selfreliance.

It is an affront to social justice and to us all.

FACTS

  • The life expectancy of someone sleeping rough is estimated to be 42 years, half that of the average UK citizen and worse than Ethiopia or the Republic of Congo.
  • Children in temporary accommodation miss out on a quarter of their schooling.
  • Around 8 per cent of all households accepted as homeless by councils are in priority need on grounds of mental illness. Research has consistently shown that between 30 and 50 per cent of rough sleepers have mental health needs.
Created by chrisames
Last modified 2006-10-31 03:24 PM

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