Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a comprehensive plan Tuesday to offer accommodation to every rough sleeper in England this winter, aiming to get them off the streets by Christmas. This initiative, a cornerstone of his premiership since taking office in July, includes emergency shelter and long-term housing solutions.

The plan builds upon the success of the "Everyone In" scheme implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, which housed approximately 37,000 individuals. That program saw a significant portion find settled accommodation, demonstrating the efficacy of coordinated efforts to address homelessness.

The government is allocating a total of £442 million to tackle rough sleeping, with £102 million representing new funding. This package is designed to provide immediate emergency accommodation, such as rooms in shared flats, B&Bs, and supported lodgings, as well as deliver over 1,000 new homes for permanent housing within the next three years. Intensive support services, including mental health and addiction treatment, will also be available.

Burnham emphasized that no one should be forced to sleep rough, noting that such situations can be more costly to the state due to increased demands on emergency services. He appealed to charities and faith groups for their partnership, stating, "We did it in the pandemic. We can do it again."

The initiative comes amidst rising homelessness figures. Official data from autumn 2025 indicated an estimated 4,793 people sleeping rough on a single night in England, a 96% increase over five years. The government's guidance will also specifically address the needs of female rough sleepers, who are often underrepresented in statistics and face heightened risks.

However, the plan has drawn criticism. Sir James Cleverly, Conservative shadow housing secretary, questioned the delivery plan and funding details, referencing Burnham's past pledge to end rough sleeping in Greater Manchester, which he argued was not fully realized. The previous Conservative government had set a target to end rough sleeping by 2024.

Experts have noted the potential cost savings associated with providing stable housing and support, compared to the ongoing expenses incurred by emergency services when individuals remain on the streets. The wraparound support services are crucial for long-term success, aiming to help individuals rebuild their lives.

Key questions remain about the speed of implementation and the capacity of local authorities and partner organizations to deliver the promised accommodation and support effectively, particularly in areas facing the greatest pressures. The success of the initiative will depend on sustained effort and collaboration across sectors.