Plans to address rough sleeping in England welcomed by RCPsych

Earlier this week, the Government announced plans to end rough sleeping in England. 

Professor Subodh Dave, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: 

"We welcome the Government's ambition to end rough sleeping in England and its commitment to offer everyone sleeping rough a route off the streets this winter. Providing people with access to accommodation alongside support for their health and other needs is a positive step that recognises the complex challenges many people experiencing homelessness face. 

"Homelessness and mental illness are inextricably linked. Mental illness can be both a cause and a consequence of homelessness. People sleeping rough are significantly more likely to experience mental illness, including psychosis, depression and anxiety, while the trauma, instability and insecurity associated with homelessness can worsen existing mental health difficulties and make recovery more difficult. They can also have physical health problems and substance use difficulties, meaning their support needs are often complex. 

"Having a safe and secure place to live is fundamental to good mental health, but lasting change requires more than accommodation alone. People experiencing homelessness need timely access to mental healthcare, alongside support for physical health, substance misuse, employment, benefits and social care where needed.  Coordinated, specialist support is essential if people are to recover, rebuild their lives and maintain stable housing in the long term. 

"Street homelessness is often the visible tip of a much larger iceberg of vulnerability, disadvantage and unmet need. Alongside support for people currently sleeping rough, it is vital that services are in place that can identify and help those at risk of homelessness before they reach crisis point. 

"We look forward to seeing further detail on how this programme will be delivered and it is positive to see the Government is bringing together partners from across multiple sectors to address rough sleeping. 

“As well as tackling rough sleeping, we must also address the lack of stable housing for people with severe mental illness, which can have a profound impact on their mental health and recovery. Ensuring people can access suitable housing should form part of a cross-government mental health strategy and is one of my key priorities as President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

“The Royal College of Psychiatrists welcomes the opportunity to work with Government, the NHS, local authorities, charities and community organisations to improve mental health support for people experiencing homelessness and those at risk of losing their home."