When we think of homelessness, we often focus on the individual adult sleeping rough or staying in a hostel. But homelessness affects families too — and the impact on children can be severe and long-lasting. In Brighton and Hove, hundreds of children are currently living in temporary accommodation, with all the instability and uncertainty that entails. Seaside CIC is committed to ensuring that families with children receive the support they need.
How Many Children Experience Homelessness?
According to research from Shelter, over 100,000 children in England are homeless — living in temporary accommodation including B&Bs, hostels, and private lets arranged by councils. This figure represents a significant and growing crisis that receives far less attention than rough sleeping.
The Impact on Children’s Health
Living in temporary, unsuitable accommodation has a severe impact on children’s physical health. Cold, damp, and overcrowded conditions increase the risk of respiratory illness, infections, and developmental problems. Many homeless families lack cooking facilities, making it impossible to prepare nutritious meals. Children in temporary accommodation are more likely to be admitted to hospital than their housed peers.
The Impact on Children’s Education
Homelessness is highly disruptive to children’s education. Frequent moves mean children change schools regularly, losing friends, falling behind with schoolwork, and losing the stability that is so important for learning. Research shows that homeless children are significantly more likely to have special educational needs and to achieve lower grades than their peers.
The Emotional Impact
The emotional impact of homelessness on children is profound. Children in temporary accommodation experience high levels of anxiety, depression, behavioural difficulties, and post-traumatic stress. The uncertainty and instability of their situation can have lasting effects on their mental health and life chances.
At Seaside CIC, we believe that no child should grow up homeless. If your family is experiencing homelessness in Brighton, please contact us — we are here to help.
