CIH welcomes repeal of Vagrancy Act as a landmark moment for housing and homelessness

CIH has today welcomed the repeal of the Vagrancy Act 1824 in England and Wales, marking the end of a 200-year-old law that criminalised people for sleeping rough or begging.

The repeal comes into effect alongside commencement of measures under the Crime and Policing Act 2026, which received Royal Assent in April. This new legislation will instead target real crimes, such as organised begging by gangs and trespassing, protecting communities without penalising vulnerable people.

This is a landmark moment for the housing sector, and the culmination of years of campaigning by organisations across the country.

Gavin Smart, CIH chief executive, said: "The repeal of the Vagrancy Act is long overdue. Criminalising people for being homeless has never been the right approach, and we're glad to see the back of a law that has no place in a compassionate society.

"We now need to build on this momentum – investing in the affordable homes, support services and prevention work that will help end rough sleeping for good."

CIH has long called for an approach that addresses the structural drivers of homelessness, including the lack of affordable housing, failures in the welfare system, and cuts to support services. The repeal represents a meaningful shift in that direction, from punishment towards support.

CIH is proud to have been part of the coalition calling for this change, and will continue to advocate for a housing-led response to rough sleeping that gives people the dignity, stability and support they need to thrive.