Ahead of the upcoming Budget, a man experiencing homelessness has expressed his hope that the government will prioritize improving access to housing.
Josh, 26, currently residing at Jimmy’s night shelter in Cambridge, emphasized the importance of available council housing and “move-on housing,” referring to supported shared accommodation.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is scheduled to deliver Labour’s second budget on November 26.
Cambridge City Council received 1,139 homelessness applications between April 2024 and March 2025, a 13% increase compared to the previous year.
Josh stated his immediate goal is to return to work after completing his electrician qualifications, which he described as “just as hard as a degree in my opinion.”
He expressed a desire for the Budget to include expanded opportunities for continuing apprenticeships and increased financial assistance for essential items like course materials.
Josh mentioned recently receiving a government grant to cover essential job-seeking equipment, such as a mobile phone, work boots, and appropriate attire.
He also indicated his support for potential tax increases, provided the revenue is allocated towards investments in public services, “especially the train lines into London.”
Andrew, who works in the security sector, resides in Peterborough in housing provided by the charity Hope Into Action.
The organization, established in the city 15 years ago, owns 130 properties across the UK.
Andrew has lived in one of the charity’s homes for two years, after experiencing homelessness for approximately “three or four months.”
“The charity saved my life,” he affirmed.
He noted that renting in the private sector “can be expensive” while emphasizing the personal responsibility of individuals to “budget as much as possible.”
Peterborough City Council is also facing an increase in housing applications.
In 2024, the council was contacted by 3,654 households facing homelessness, marking an 11% rise from the previous year.
Since April 7 of this year, there have already been 2,333 approaches – averaging 70 per week.
The local authority received nearly £1m last month to assist in addressing rough sleeping within the city.
Andrew acknowledged the need for funding public services and stated that if tax increases are necessary, then “you’ve got to make good” and contribute.
HM Treasury has been contacted for comment.
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