A new report, published today by Sussex Community Foundation, shows a steep rise in homelessness and insecure housing across Sussex.

Sussex Uncovered reports that homelessness – those identified as being in priority need – has risen by 38 per cent across Sussex over four between (2013/14 – 2017/18) and in some areas, it has risen by much more – Adur (280%), Eastbourne (255%) and Rother (205%).

The report was published in partnership with the Oxford Consultants for Social Inclusion and contains data about many different areas of life in Sussex including health, well-being and safety; skills, education and work and access to local services.

‘Homelessness is a complex issue and there are a number of reasons behind these figures,’ says Chief Executive, Kevin Richmond. ‘In part they are due to changes in legislation which require local authorities to assess people in housing need, but they also demonstrate the impact of welfare reforms and universal credit. Perhaps most of all they highlight that the cost of housing has increased dramatically in recent years while most people’s income has remained static. This is causing real problems for many people. The increasing levels of poverty among people who are working is one of the most shocking facets of our time.’

Sussex Community Foundation makes grants to local charities and community groups across East and West Sussex and Brighton & Hove and has awarded over £14 million to support Sussex communities since 2006.

‘Our overall finding is that Sussex is a great place to live if you can afford it, but there are many who struggle to get by,’ continued Mr Richmond. ‘Our work at the Foundation also shows that, while there are challenges, there is a thriving community and many people passionate about seeing positive changes.’

Sussex Uncovered is available to read online at http://www.sussexgiving.org.uk/sussexuncovered2019