Another big rise in those seeking help for homelessness

Jersey's homelessness problem is continuing to worsen, with another big rise recorded in the number of people seeking help from housing providers and shelters.

341 people went to the Housing Advice Service and homeless accommodation providers in the three months to June 2025.

This compares to 204 during the same period last year, when the government first published a now quarterly 'Homelessness in Jersey' report.

It had risen to 295 at the end of last year and to 321 by the spring of this year.

282 people had a temporary place to live, such as a shelter; 47 were in insecure homes - under threat of eviction or violence; and as many as eight people were sleeping rough.

Around three-quarters of people without a permanent place to live are men, with the majority aged in their mid-twenties to mid-fifties.

This differs significantly from the data for women in insecure accommodation, who are primarily aged under 35.

Domestic abuse is the main reason for nearly a quarter of the being without secure housing.

For men, the main reason is substance abuse, at around 1 in 5.

The Homelessness in Jersey Report Q2 2025 also reveals that 194 people were living in temporary shelter accommodation provided by Freeda, Shelter Trust, Sanctuary Trust or Jersey Association of Youth and Fellowship at some point during that time period.

75 islanders were living with family or friends, and 40 were living in the private rental sector before needing help with their living situations.

Between April and June 2025, 35% of homeless islanders were either employed full-time or part-time, and 6% were retired.

Around 1 in 25 were recorded as in education or training.

In response to the latest data, Chief Minister Deputy Lyndon Farnham said:

“Everyone in Jersey should have a safe and secure place to call home and these reports are designed to provide a clearer picture of where help is needed."

He said the Housing Minister and wider government 'remains committed' to preventing homelessness and supporting those without stable accommodation.

"The strength of our Island lies in our compassion, and we will continue working to ensure that every person in Jersey has the foundation of a secure home and the dignity it brings.”