Urgent Rise in Homelessness Referrals in East Lindsey Revealed

UPDATE: A staggering 468 referrals for individuals sleeping rough have been recorded in East Lindsey over the past year, marking a significant increase in homelessness concerns. The East Lindsey District Council reported this urgent statistic during a meeting on October 14, 2025, revealing that the number of referrals has surged from 440 for 362 people the previous year.

Officials, including Carol Rippin, team leader for the rough sleeping intervention team at the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, highlighted the challenges faced in addressing this crisis. “We are experiencing an increasing number of referrals, coupled with issues like the mobility of rough sleepers and vague safety risks,” Rippin stated. The council is actively seeking to locate those in need, conducting outreach efforts twice a week.

The data underscores a troubling trend, particularly among under-25-year-olds, who are disproportionately affected by rising housing costs. Rippin explained, “The cost of living and limitations of universal credit make housing unaffordable, especially for younger individuals.” She emphasized that landlords are becoming more selective, often preferring tenants who are employed rather than those on benefits, which places vulnerable populations at greater risk.

The council reported that between March 2024 and April 2025, they successfully assisted 113 individuals in finding accommodation, with most transitioning into privately rented or supported housing. However, the ongoing crisis remains acute, as Rippin pointed out that some rough sleepers are resistant to assistance, complicating efforts to provide support.

Rippin noted the council’s commitment to tackling homelessness head-on, stating, “We aim to prevent rough sleeping whenever possible, and when it does occur, we strive to make it rare, brief, and non-recurrent.” The initiative focuses on addressing underlying issues such as addiction, mental health, and the risk of re-offending, essential factors in building trust and encouraging engagement with services.

As the situation develops, the council is collaborating with local health services, community groups, and other councils to strengthen support networks. Rippin emphasized the importance of community efforts, saying, “We need to find these individuals, help them recover their abilities, and rebuild their lives.”

The rising number of homelessness referrals in East Lindsey is a clarion call for immediate action. As this crisis unfolds, the community and authorities must come together to address the growing needs of the vulnerable population. Further updates are expected as the council continues its efforts to manage this escalating challenge.