Dorset Defies National Trend: Rough Sleeper Numbers Fall – But Challenges Remain
Dorset Council has reported a positive trend in its efforts to combat homelessness, with the latest figures showing a decrease in the number of people sleeping rough. The annual snapshot for 2025 recorded 14 individuals sleeping rough across the Dorset Council area – the lowest number since 2022. This stands in stark contrast to the national picture, where rough sleeping has been steadily increasing.
A Regional and National Rise in Rough Sleeping
Although Dorset sees improvement, the South West region experienced an 11% rise in rough sleeping and England as a whole saw a 3% increase, reaching a record 4,793 people sleeping rough on a single night last autumn. This marks the fourth consecutive annual increase nationally, exceeding the previous peak recorded in 2017.
Dorset’s Consistent Approach
Dorset’s figures over the past five years demonstrate relative stability: 14 in 2025, 15 in 2024 and 2023, 12 in 2022, and 13 in 2021. This suggests a consistent, focused approach to addressing homelessness within the region. Weymouth continues to be the area with the highest concentration of rough sleepers, with smaller numbers also found in Bridport, Dorchester, Swanage, and Wimborne.
Funding and Key Partnerships Driving Progress
Dorset Council’s success is underpinned by funding from the Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant (RSPARG). This funding supports ten commissioned services and several internal posts, enabling a coordinated response to homelessness. Crucially, the Council works in partnership with several key organizations, including Julian House, The Lantern Trust, Shelter, The Bus Shelter, and Citizens Advice.
How Partner Organizations are Making a Difference
- Julian House: Provides assertive outreach six days a week, a Navigator service for transitioning into accommodation, and supported housing at Roundhayes in Weymouth.
- The Lantern Trust: Focuses on supported lettings, landlord engagement, and personalized education, training, and employment support.
- Shelter: Offers intensive support to individuals with complex needs.
- The Bus Shelter: Provides 24/7 supported accommodation for up to 12 people.
- Citizens Advice: Delivers specialist advice at the Lantern Hub in Weymouth, assisting residents with housing costs, debt management, and sustaining accommodation.
Preventative Measures and Early Intervention
Councillor Gill Taylor, Cabinet Portfolio Lead for Housing and Health, emphasized the importance of continued effort, stating, “Our providers do an amazing job in helping tackle rough sleeping. We work closely with partners to put support and accommodation in place wherever One can.” The Council is also investing in preventative services, including a Housing Advice helpline (01305 221000) designed to offer early intervention and support people avoid homelessness.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Progress and Addressing Future Challenges
While the current figures are encouraging, maintaining this positive trajectory will require sustained investment and collaboration. Factors such as the cost of living crisis, availability of affordable housing, and access to mental health services will continue to play a significant role in the prevalence of homelessness. Dorset Council’s commitment to preventative measures and strong partnerships will be crucial in navigating these challenges.
Did you know?
You can help connect people sleeping rough with local services by reporting them via the StreetLink website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if I am concerned about someone sleeping rough?
A: You can report the situation to StreetLink via their website: https://thestreetlink.org.uk/
Q: Where can I find help if I am at risk of becoming homeless?
A: Contact Dorset Council’s Housing Advice helpline on 01305 221000.
Q: What services are available to help people find accommodation?
A: Dorset Council commissions a range of services, including outreach, supported housing, and assistance with finding private rented accommodation. Details can be found on the Dorset Council website.
Q: How is Dorset Council working to prevent homelessness?
A: Through early intervention services like the Housing Advice helpline and partnerships with organizations like Citizens Advice and Shelter.
To learn more about Dorset Council’s housing and homelessness services, visit https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/.
