Homelessness is a complicated issue that’s often misunderstood. Unfortunately, these misunderstandings can lead to unfair judgments and make it harder for people to get the help they need.
By taking a closer look at some common misconceptions, we can better understand the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and work together to offer more compassionate support.
"Homeless people could get themselves off the street if they wanted to."
A staggering 72% of people believe that those experiencing homelessness could lift themselves out of it if they truly wanted to (Evolve Housing, 2019). This belief overlooks the immense challenges that individuals face when trying to escape homelessness.
The reality is that recovering from homelessness is a long, arduous process. The waiting lists for social housing are extensive, and the demand for temporary accommodation is overwhelming.
For many, private renting is simply unaffordable, especially without a steady income. Expecting someone to find or keep a job while living on the streets is unreasonable, as homelessness is not only physically exhausting but also mentally and emotionally draining. Without a stable environment, it’s nearly impossible to rebuild a life.
"You’re only homeless if you sleep on the street."
Homelessness is more than just rough sleeping. It’s a broad and often invisible crisis affecting many different groups. For example, over 112,000 households in England are living in temporary accommodations such as B&Bs or hostels. These individuals are homeless, even though they aren’t on the streets.
Moreover, countless people are sofa-surfing, living in their cars, or squatting. They too are homeless, even though their situations might not be as visible. Homelessness takes many forms, and everyone experiencing it deserves a safe, stable place to call home.
"People sleeping rough are to blame for their homelessness."
Nearly 30% of people believe that individuals sleeping rough are responsible for their homelessness (Evolve Housing, 2019).
We are living in a housing emergency. 1.3million people are on the waiting list for social housing and record numbers living in temporary accommodation. These housing shortages, coupled with skyrocketing private rents, no-fault evictions and the rising cost-of-living are pushing people into poverty and increasing their risk of becoming homelessness.
“Women are less likely to be homeless.”
The true scale of women’s homelessness is largely unknown. It’s estimated that up to nine times more women are rough sleeping than official government statistics indicate.
Women often hide while sleeping rough, doing so for their own protection, and are therefore less visible. They are more likely to be found in temporary accommodation, refuges, or sofa surfing. This makes it difficult to fully grasp the extent of women’s homelessness.
"Homeless people don’t want to work."
Contrary to this misconception, many homeless people are working. In 2022 alone, the number of people who were employed full-time and yet homeless increased by 8.1% (ITV News, 2023). Shockingly, one in four households forced into homelessness that year had at least one person in employment.
Maintaining a job while homeless is incredibly challenging. Without a stable home, even the simplest tasks—like washing clothes, getting to work, and planning meals—become difficult. Homelessness is not just a physical challenge; it’s mentally and emotionally taxing, making it hard to keep a job or find new employment opportunities.
"All homeless people are addicts or criminals."
This stereotype is not only harmful but also untrue. People experiencing homelessness are just as human as anyone else. Substance misuse and criminal behaviour can be both causes and symptoms of homelessness. However, these issues often stem from deeper problems.
Consider this: many people with addictions use substances to numb the pain of trauma or poor mental health. How many adults with criminal records were drawn into crime at a young age, often by coercion or necessity? No one really chooses to live this way.
Before casting judgment, ask yourself how confident you are that you wouldn’t resort to these coping mechanisms if you found yourself in their situation.
In summary…
Now that you’ve read this article, head to our Facebook or Instagram where you’ll find short shareable videos explaining these misconceptions. Share these with your followers, to help more people understand the reality faced by homeless people.
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