I have personally witnessed the devastating effects of homelessness. People close to me, burdened with heavy mental health issues, were left to fend for themselves on the streets due to a lack of support from our government. This is not just their story but a narrative shared by thousands across our nation.

Homelessness in the UK has been an escalating issue over recent years. According to Shelter, there are approximately 280,000 homeless people in England alone as of December 2019 (source: Shelter). This number does not even account for those who are 'hidden homeless', individuals who do not show up in official statistics but are without a stable place to live.

The correlation between mental health issues and homelessness is undeniable. The Mental Health Foundation reports that 80% of people who are homeless have some form of mental health issue (source: Mental Health Foundation), often exacerbated by their living conditions and lack of access to appropriate services.

Our government needs to acknowledge this crisis and take immediate action. We need more than temporary solutions; we require long-term strategies that address both housing shortages and inadequate mental health support systems.

By signing this petition, you're calling on our government officials to prioritize addressing homelessness as a critical national issue and commit resources towards sustainable solutions that include accessible mental healthcare for all citizens regardless of their housing status. Please sign this petition today!