I am calling on the Government to declare a State of Emergency in deprived areas across the UK. Significant new investment is needed to restore high streets, improve public transport, upgrade parks, and modernize housing stock. We must also protect local services like youth centres and healthcare, redeveloping derelict sites into usable community spaces and employment hubs to restore hope across all areas of the UK.

Across the country, more people are facing homelessness than ever before. In early 2026, homelessness in England reached a breaking point, with a record 134,760 households stuck in temporary accommodation. Roughly 900 people a day are now facing homelessness and requiring council assistance. Many are struggling to find work as local services are stripped back. Vulnerable residents and young people are not getting the support they need, and the cost of living crisis is affecting everyone.

Since 2010, over 1,000 council-run youth centres have closed, and spending on these vital services has plummeted by 73%. While the new ‘Young Futures Hubs’ are a start, there are only 8 early adopters so far—our communities cannot wait years for the remaining 42 to arrive.

Furthermore, while record levels of capital—£14.8 billion—are being reinvested into social housing, many residents remain trapped in homes requiring urgent remediation and safety upgrades. We need an Emergency Fund to accelerate these repairs now, rather than waiting for a 10-year settlement.

Photo: "Addington rbt" by David Howard (CC BY 2.0)