Uncovering the hidden crisis: A comprehensive approach is needed to tackle rural homelessness in England

In the idyllic landscapes of England's countryside, a crisis is quietly unfolding, largely unseen and unaddressed - rural homelessness. Unlike its urban counterpart, rural homelessness is often hidden, overlooked, and misunderstood. This makes it a pressing issue that demands our immediate attention and a comprehensive, rural-specific approach to fully understand and effectively address it.

The hidden crisis of rural homelessness: A closer look

Homelessness in rural areas is often less visible than in cities. People experiencing homelessness in the countryside may not be sleeping on high streets but in barns, cars, or tents hidden away in woodland. This lack of visibility is the result of to the unique characteristics of rural homelessness.

The dispersed nature of rural settlements and the stigma associated with homelessness in these areas can make it difficult for individuals to seek help. This invisibility often leads to a lack of awareness and understanding, resulting in insufficient resources and support for those affected. Moreover, the shame and stigma associated with homelessness in prosperous areas are significant barriers to getting support. This further intensifies the invisibility of rural homelessness, leading to reduced support services and exacerbating need.

The role of local authorities and rural housing associations: A call to action

Local authorities, rural housing associations, and other stakeholders have a crucial role to play in addressing this issue. They can start by acknowledging the unique challenges of rural homelessness, such as the lack of public transport and the high cost of rural housing. By developing and implementing strategies tailored to the specific needs of rural communities, they can provide more effective support.

For instance, they can invest in affordable housing projects, such as those provided by English Rural, and ensure that flexible, multi-disciplinary prevention services are readily available. A key part of this approach involves expanding outreach efforts to ensure that these services reach individuals in rural areas who may not have easy access to support. Mental health services should be a priority, given the significant role that mental health issues often play in homelessness.

Local authorities and rural housing associations can also work in partnership to help improve public transport links between rural and urban areas. This would make it easier for individuals to access necessary services, particularly those located in urban areas.

Furthermore, local authorities and rural housing associations can collaborate with other partners, such as health and social care providers, to deliver integrated services that address the multiple needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. This could include providing advice on housing options, support for mental health issues, substance misuse, and employment, among other areas. By extending these integrated services to rural areas through effective outreach strategies, we can ensure that support is available to those who need it most, regardless of where they live.

The path to ending rural homelessness: A comprehensive strategy

Ending rural homelessness requires a strategic approach. Firstly, we need to improve our understanding of the scale and distribution of rural homelessness. This involves developing more effective methods for counting and recording instances of homelessness in rural areas.

Secondly, we need to address rural poverty and high housing costs, which are key drivers of homelessness. This should involve investing more in building genuinely affordable homes in rural communities, and better supporting those in rural areas within the welfare system, for example by reviewing local housing allowance levels in a way that recognises the cost of rural living. Most critically, by pushing for a renewed political commitment to ending all forms of homelessness.

Thirdly, we need to challenge the stigma associated with homelessness in rural areas. This involves raising awareness about the issue and promoting a more inclusive and understanding attitude within rural communities.

The impact of short term lets: A contributing factor

In some areas, the increase in short term lets, often facilitated by platforms like Airbnb, can contribute to rural homelessness by reducing the availability of long-term rental properties and driving up rents. This can make it even more difficult for individuals in rural areas to find affordable housing.

As such, there is a need to fully understand the impact that short terms lets have and how competing interests can be better balanced.

The future of the Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition: A beacon of hope

With the publication of the 'Homelessness in the Countryside' report, the Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition is poised to take significant strides in addressing this issue. The coalition aims to raise awareness, develop, and advocate for solutions, and encourage the adoption of evidence-based best practices in rural communities.

The coalition's future direction includes establishing relationships with rural local authorities, piloting an integrated rural homelessness service model, and advocating for 'rural proofing' in future homelessness strategies. By working collaboratively and proactively, the coalition aims to bring the hidden crisis of rural homelessness into the light and work towards a future where everyone has a place to call home.

A call to action

In conclusion, rural homelessness is a complex issue that requires a nuanced and targeted approach. As members of the Chartered Institute of Housing, we all have a role to play in addressing this crisis. By working together, we can ensure that no one, no matter where they live, is left without a safe and secure home.

We need to bring the hidden crisis of rural homelessness into the light. We need to challenge the stigma associated with homelessness in rural areas. We need to advocate for policy changes that address the unique challenges of rural homelessness. And most importantly, we need to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to a safe, affordable home.

By doing so, we can address the immediate crisis of rural homelessness, and work towards a future where homelessness, whether urban or rural, is a thing of the past.