CHARITIES have slammed the Tory government after it was revealed nearly 600 homeless people died in England and Wales last year.
The official estimates, from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), marked a 24% rise in homeless deaths in five years.
The research found 597 homeless people died in 2017, compared to 492 in 2013.
Shelter campaign director Greg Beales said: “This appalling loss of life should be a source of national shame. There is nothing inevitable about homelessness or about these tragic deaths which are a consequence of a housing system which fails too many people.
“Our crippling shortage of social housing and a threadbare safety net are at the root of this national emergency and we call on the Government to make this year a turning point in the fight to ensure that there is a safe home for all.”
The study found that homeless men died, on average, at the age of 44 and women at 42 in 2017.
Crisis chief executive Jon Sparkes added: “In one of the world’s wealthiest countries, no one should be dying because of homelessness. It’s imperative that governments act now to stop this tragedy once and for all.
“Behind these statistics are human beings – mothers, fathers, daughters and sons – whose families will now be spending Christmas coming to terms with their loss.”
Downing Street said the figures were “very concerning”. A spokesman said: “These are complex issues but we are working hard to find solutions.”
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