East Lindsey Reports Surge in Homelessness Referrals Amid Crisis

UPDATE: East Lindsey District Council has just reported a staggering surge in homelessness referrals, with 468 referrals for 208 individuals recorded in the last year alone. This alarming increase, noted during a council meeting on October 14, 2025, highlights a growing crisis as the number of rough sleeping referrals has risen from 440 for 362 people in the previous year.

Officials from the council are sounding the alarm as they face escalating challenges in addressing homelessness. Carol Rippin, team leader for the rough sleeping intervention team at the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, stated, “We have an increasing number of referrals and we also have challenges including the mobility of rough sleepers and vague information safety risks.”

The rising cost of living and limitations on universal credit are hitting young people particularly hard, making housing increasingly unaffordable. Rippin emphasized, “Selective landlords are being more choosy about tenants, often preferring those who are employed over individuals on benefits, especially those with complex needs.” Many young individuals are now feeling lost to the system, disconnected from their support networks.

The district council’s efforts to combat homelessness are intensifying. Rippin noted that the team is deployed twice a week to locate and assist rough sleepers. Their mission is to prevent homelessness whenever possible, aiming to ensure that when it does occur, it is “rare, brief, and non-recurrent.”

From March 2024 to April 2025, the council successfully supported 113 individuals in finding accommodation, primarily in privately rented or social housing. However, some individuals remain resistant to assistance, complicating efforts to provide support.

Rippin highlighted the importance of building trust with those in need, stating, “We focus on addiction, mental health, and re-offending. Trust-building is essential for encouraging engagement.” The council collaborates closely with other councils, health services, and community organizations to tackle these pervasive issues.

As this situation continues to develop, East Lindsey residents are urged to stay informed and support local initiatives aimed at reducing homelessness in the area. The urgent need for solutions is clear as the community grapples with the impact of rising housing costs and the intricate challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to share this vital information as the district council ramps up its efforts to combat homelessness in East Lindsey. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation evolves.