As the winter months set in, the homelessness crisis in England continues to reach unprecedented levels. With over 123,000 households – representing more than 159,000 children – now living in temporary accommodation, the time to act is now. This crisis is not just a statistic; it is a national emergency demanding our attention and collective action.

My name is John Glenton, and I have spent the last 37 years working in homelessness services. As Executive Director of Care and Support at Riverside Housing and a proud trustee of Church Homeless Charity for nine years, I’ve seen first-hand how precarious life can be for families without a place to call home.

Yet, despite decades of dedication, I am still shocked by the stories I hear and the realities I witness.

A worsening crisis for families

Government data paints a grim picture:

• 159,380 children are living in temporary accommodation, a record high since data collection began in 2002.
• Over 5,900 families with children are housed in bed and breakfasts – often cramped and unsuitable for long-term living.
• The number of households in bed and breakfasts for over six weeks has risen by 50.2%, leaving families stuck in limbo for months.

Behind these numbers are real children missing out on the stability of a home – a safe space to study, play, and grow.

Temporary solutions aren’t enough

Temporary accommodation should be just that: temporary. But with a lack of investment in hostels and supported housing since 2011, families often remain in inadequate housing far longer than they should. Bed spaces in hostels have decreased by 24% between 2010 and 2022, leaving thousands with nowhere to turn.

Riverside’s data gives a glimpse of what’s possible when resources are available: 83% of people moved on from homelessness in 2021/22 after staying in our hostels and supported housing services. Yet, this kind of success can only happen with adequate investment in services that provide both housing and support.

Meeting families where they are

Church Homeless Charity partners with Riverside to support homeless families across 14 schemes in England. These schemes offer more than a roof over families’ heads -they provide tailored advice and support to help parents secure and maintain permanent homes.

Recently, I visited Riverside’s Young Families service in Wakefield. What I encountered was deeply unsettling: parents relying on Baby Banks to provide essentials like nappies, baby food, and clothing. For many, this was their only option.

Baby Banks, much like Food Banks, exist to meet a desperate need. But their very existence highlights the harsh reality that too many families cannot afford even the basics for their children.

A legacy of opening doors

My journey with homelessness began in 1987 working for what was then called the Church Housing Association. There, I saw how a small grant could transform a life – helping someone secure a job, afford transport, or buy essential household items. These grants weren’t just practical; they restored hope and confidence.

Today, Church Homeless Charity continues this mission. Each year, the charity provides grants to help parents and children living in our schemes – grants that open doors to a better future by funding essential items that bring comfort, stability, and dignity.

This winter, let’s do more

Homeless children need more than temporary shelter – they need the safety and warmth of a real home. As we face the coldest months of the year, I urge you to join Church Homeless Charity’s winter appeal. Your support can help us provide grants to families who need them most.

Together, we can give homeless children the chance to thrive, not just survive. Let’s make this winter a turning point in their lives.

Donate to our winter appeal and help us make a real difference for families in need.