Around 210,000 people in London are homeless and living in temporary accommodation arranged by local authorities, including approximately 102,000 children, according to analysis of government data published by London Councils in December 2025.
The number of homeless children has risen by 8% compared with the previous year and by 35% since 2021, highlighting what borough leaders describe as an escalating homelessness emergency in the capital.
London boroughs spent £2.025 billion on homelessness services in the 2024–2025 financial year, equivalent to £5.5 million per day. This is a sharp increase from £1.586 billion in 2023–2024. The funding covers temporary accommodation placements, prevention work and related support services amid severe housing supply pressures.
Across England, 134,760 households were in temporary accommodation at the end of September 2025, according to the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government. This included 85,730 households with dependent children and 175,990 children overall. London accounts for a disproportionately high share of these cases, with rates significantly above the national average.
The crisis reflects a chronic shortage of affordable and social housing in the capital. Households facing homelessness are often placed in nightly paid self-contained units, private rented properties leased by councils or other interim arrangements. Social housing waiting lists remain extensive, with average waits for suitable homes stretching for decades in some boroughs.
Nick Neale from Emoov said: “It is heartbreaking that so many children are experiencing temporary homelessness. In London, the private rented sector continues to play a critical role in supporting households at risk of homelessness. With social housing supply under extreme pressure, many local authorities rely on responsible landlords to provide quick, flexible solutions during periods of high demand.”
“However, the increasing dependence on private rentals underscores the persistent imbalance between housing supply and demand in the capital. Expanding the delivery of social and affordable housing is essential for creating a sustainable long term solution, while ensuring vulnerable households have access to secure and suitable accommodation.”
Neale added: “Supporting landlords, maintaining strong partnerships with London boroughs, and improving access to quality rental homes will remain crucial in helping to prevent homelessness and stabilise communities across the city.”
Nick Neale, property expert at Emoov, urged families who may be worried about losing their home to speak to their landlord as early as possible. Neale said: “If your family is struggling with rent or worried about losing your home, open communication is crucial. Many landlords would rather agree on a temporary payment plan or short term flexibility than see a family tenancy end abruptly. The earlier you speak to them, the more options you’re likely to have.”
Neale also advised families to contact their local council immediately. “Families with children are considered a priority need under homelessness legislation. Your local council has a legal duty to help if you are at risk of homelessness. Getting in touch as soon as possible gives them more time to assess your situation and work to secure suitable accommodation, ideally without your family needing to enter emergency housing.”
Neale said families should check what financial support they may be entitled to. “Many families may qualify for support such as housing benefit, Universal Credit housing costs, or discretionary housing payments. These can provide vital short term help and may allow you to remain in your current home while you stabilise your finances.”
Neale added that gathering and keeping important documents safe could help speed up support. “Having key paperwork ready, such as your tenancy agreement, proof of income, benefit letters, children’s birth certificates and ID, can help speed up council support and reduce stress during what is already a difficult time.”
Neale said families should prioritise stability for children wherever possible. “Where possible, try to keep children in the same school and community. Councils will take schooling and child welfare into account when assessing housing needs, so make sure to highlight this when speaking to them.”
Neale acknowledged that temporary solutions may be unavoidable in some cases. “While every family wants secure, long term housing, temporary accommodation may be necessary in the short term. Being flexible can help ensure your family has a safe place to stay while more permanent arrangements are made.”
Finally, Neale encouraged families to seek specialist advice. “Organisations such as Shelter and Citizens Advice offer free guidance tailored to families. Getting expert advice early can help you understand your rights and strengthen your case for support.”
The figures underline the urgent need to expand affordable and social housing provision to address the root causes of homelessness in London.