CIH welcomes planned repeal of Vagrancy Act and a shift towards support over criminalisation

CIH has welcomed the government’s confirmation that the Vagrancy Act 1824 will be repealed in England and Wales by Spring 2026 – meaning that sleeping rough or begging will no longer be a criminal offence. 

The move marks the end of a 200-year-old law that has long been criticised by charities, housing professionals and campaigners for punishing people experiencing homelessness rather than addressing its root causes. 

Gavin Smart, chief executive of CIH, said: 

“We are delighted to see that the Government will finally repeal the outdated Vagrancy Act. Criminalising people for being homeless is not, and has never been, the right approach. We need a system that provides people with safe, secure housing and access to the right support – not one that punishes them for being in crisis. 

"This is a long overdue and welcome step. We hope it marks a continuing shift towards a more compassionate and effective response to rough sleeping, one focused on prevention, trauma-informed support, and long-term solutions.” 

The government has confirmed that police will retain powers to intervene in cases of anti-social behaviour where necessary, but stressed that homelessness itself should not be treated as a crime. 

The repeal follows years of campaigning by housing and homelessness organisations, many of whom argued that the Act was outdated, inhumane, and counterproductive to ending rough sleeping. 

CIH has consistently called for an approach that tackles the structural drivers of homelessness – including a lack of affordable housing, welfare system failures, and cuts to support services – and stands ready to work with government, local authorities and partners to ensure a meaningful alternative to criminalisation is delivered. 

The repeal is a key milestone in the wider effort to end rough sleeping, and CIH will continue to support a housing-led approach that gives people the dignity, stability and support they need to thrive. 

Further information: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/rough-sleeping-to-be-decriminalised-after-200-years