Who is most vulnerable to becoming homeless?

Homelessness doesn’t affect everyone equally.

We often think that “it could happen to anyone” – but in truth, some people are far more likely to experience homelessness than others. According to research from St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity, a few communities are especially at risk, and their stories are often overlooked:

• Women fleeing domestic abuse: many end up sofa-surfing, relying on unsafe relationships, or staying hidden. Studies show that 54% of homeless women have experienced violence from a partner, and 43% from family or acquittances. St Mungo’s found that a third of their female clients said domestic violence had contributed to their housing situation.
• Young people (16-24): 135,800 declared themselves homeless or at risk of homelessness in 2022-23 – about 372 per day, often due to family breakdown, mental health challenges, leaving care, or refugee status.
• LGBTQ+ youth: roughly 24% of young people experiencing homelessness identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community. Rejection, unsafe home environment, and discrimination make it harder for them to find support and shelter. 77% of these people gave “family rejection, abuse or being asked to leave home” as a cause of their homelessness.
• Migrants & asylum seekers: these communities are particularly disadvantaged due to “no recourse to public funds”. Illness, job loss, or visa issues can quickly lead to evictions with limited safety nets. In 2023-24, homelessness among people leaving asylum accommodation rose by 251%. It is estimated that over 50% of rough sleepers in London are non-UK nationals.
• Individuals with mental health issues: 45% of people experiencing homelessness have diagnosed mental health issues, rising to 80% among those rough sleeping. Poor mental health both contributes to and worsens homelessness. 26% of homeless people in the UK cite mental health problems as a main reason for being homeless.

At Stef & Philips Foundation, we’ve proudly supported these communities through both project-based and individual grants and we remain committed to doing so. We believe in tackling root causes, amplifying unheard voices, and backing solutions that offer tangible, lasting change.

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