Homelessness minister promises to end use of B&Bs as emergency housing

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Kiran Stacey and Jessica MurrayDecember 10, 2025 at 11:30 PM

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Homelessness Minister Alison McGovern pledged to end the use of bed and breakfasts for emergency housing in England by the end of the current parliament, citing a new three-year government homelessness strategy. This commitment comes as Shelter data reveals homelessness has increased by 8% in the past year, with over 380,000 people homeless and a record 350,000 in temporary accommodation. McGovern acknowledged the challenges of constrained incomes, rising costs, and austerity measures impacting local councils. However, the government faces criticism from campaigners and the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, regarding the freezing of housing benefits until at least 2026, which they argue will exacerbate homelessness. Shelter's chief executive also warned that the failure to unfreeze local housing allowance rates will condemn thousands to another grim winter without a secure home.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Greater Manchester 60% England 70% Shelter ×280% Alison McGovern ×2100%

Keywords

homelessness 100% emergency housing 80% temporary accommodation 70% bed and breakfasts 70% social housing 60% housing benefit 60% local housing allowance 50% austerity 40% poverty 40%