NCJ Number
138749
Date Published
1991
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A September 1991 survey of single homeless people in Essex, England, indicated that 335 persons presented themselves as homeless over a 2-week period, a significant increase over previous years where the total number generally ranged from 171 to 193 for the same period of time.
Abstract
The homeless problem was most apparent in large towns such as Southend, Colchester, and Chelmsford. Many single homeless people were also found in smaller towns and rural areas where the problem frequently goes unrecognized. About 23 percent of the homeless were women, while 77 percent were men. Most single homeless people were young; nearly two- thirds were under 26 years of age and a significant number were 16 or 17 years. A high percentage of the homeless were unemployed. Many homeless people spoke about the difficulties of being homeless, their isolation and despair, and other people's hostile reactions. In addition, many regarded coming into contact with the criminal justice system and resorting to crime as consequences of homelessness. The majority of homeless people literally had nowhere to stay or were in temporary accommodations with nowhere to move. About half left their last settled accommodation due to a relationship crisis with either parents or partners. Approximately two-thirds wanted rental accommodations, and almost one-third needed accommodations of one kind or another with support from housing workers prior to moving on to independent housing. Single homeless people approached various statutory and voluntary agencies for housing assistance. About one-third presented themselves to local council housing departments, and one-fourth approached voluntary organizations. Tables, figures, and photographs