Number of Rough Sleepers on the Rise in Truro & Cornwall

A recent survey carried out by Cornwall Council has shown an increase in the number of people who consider themselves to be 'sleeping rough' has increased by 20% since October 2010.

Cornwall Council Survey

This year's survey took a 'self assessment' approach, asking people who access housing support services, soup kitchens, food banks and One Stop to provide a range of information on a questionnaire.  They were asked about their housing status, history, location and time time frames without a stable place of residence. 

Rough Sleeping Figures Cornwall

In October 2010, 76 individuals identified themselves as sleeping rough, with 65 saying that they had done so for more a month.

However, a similar survey undertaken in June/July 2011, suggests that the figure has jumped to at least 88 identifying themselves as having slept rough for more than one week.

Nothing to the East

The data collection method has been lauded by housing support groups, but is flawed notably for its lack of information regarding rough sleeping figures east of the county past St Austell.  This means that there is no firm figures to highlight migration of rough sleepers between Devon and Cornwall.

Cornwall Council Quote

Speaking on the Cornwall Council website, the cabinet member for housing Mark Kaczmarek said:

"Housing and getting rough sleepers off the streets is a priority for this Council.  The last survey revealed some high figures and this new exercise has provided even more information on the extent of rough sleeping in Cornwall.  We will continue to work without partners in the voluntary sector to tackle the issue head on."

Those who need emergency housing assistance should call Cornwall County Housing on 0300 1234 161.

Have your say.

Are you surprised by the increase in rough sleeper numbers?  How do you think the data might change when you include the east of the county?

Image courtesy of geograph.co.uk