The number of rough sleepers in Barking and Dagenham has seen a marked increase, with a peak of 19 individuals recorded in January 2026. This figure represents a significant rise from the previous December, when only four rough sleepers were identified during the annual statutory count.
During a Barking and Dagenham Council Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, councillors received an update on housing priorities. The report highlighted that approximately 60% of those identified as rough sleeping have no recourse
to public funds, making them more challenging to accommodate.
The council's new Housing Strategy includes a commitment to reducing rough sleeping to zero by 2031. Plans are in place to implement a Housing First model in partnership with the YMCA, which aims to provide secure accommodation and comprehensive support to rough sleepers.
