Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham Proposes Christmas Housing for Rough Sleepers

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has announced a national proposal to house all rough sleepers in England by Christmas, a strategy that draws comparisons to the ‘Everyone In’ programme implemented during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative seeks to offer immediate accommodation and comprehensive support services to individuals living on the streets.

Under the proposed scheme, local authorities would be tasked with providing safe, warm spaces for rough sleepers. The ‘Everyone In’ programme, initiated in March 2020, saw an estimated 37,000 individuals rehoused, effectively reducing rough sleeping by a reported 70% at its peak. However, sustained funding and long-term support for these individuals have since been a persistent challenge.

Critics point to the systemic issues that lead to homelessness, arguing that short-term housing initiatives, while welcome, do not address the root causes such as austerity measures, inadequate social housing provision, and cuts to welfare support. The viability and funding of a national repeat of ‘Everyone In’ beyond the festive period will undoubtedly be a central point of contention, particularly given the ongoing strain on local government budgets.