A record 1,611 people died while homeless across the UK in 2024, a 9% increase on the previous year, according to a new report from the Museum of Homelessness.
The latest ‘Dying Homeless Project 2025’ report highlights that a significant proportion of people died while living in hostels, B&Bs, or exempt accommodation.
The researchers had information on the housing status of 87% of the deceased and found that nearly half (49%) had been living in temporary accommodation, while 18% had resided in supported accommodation.
The highest mortality rates were recorded in London and the South West of England, while drug and alcohol-related causes accounted for 43% of deaths.
The charity’s investigators described the loss of life as ‘needless and preventable’, calling for urgent Government action and stronger local partnerships to prevent future deaths.
Local authorities were praised for improved data sharing, but the report urges faster action on the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023.
Since its inception in 2017, the project has recorded 8,523 deaths of people experiencing homelessness.
