St Petrocs responds to the latest UK Government Rough Sleeping Statistics, showing a rise in rough sleeping across Cornwall

The Rough Sleeping Snapshot in England: Autumn 2025 reports that 4,793 people were estimated to be sleeping rough across England on a single night in autumn 2025 - the highest figure recorded since the snapshot began in 2010. In Cornwall, the estimate has risen from 53 people in 2024 to 65 people in 2025, an increase of approximately 23%.

“The rough sleeping snapshot for Cornwall demonstrates what we at St Petrocs have seen throughout the last year; the number of people sleeping rough in Cornwall has increased significantly. Urgent action needs to be taken and we are engaging with all parts of society to make a difference. It is imperative that we work collaboratively across the public, private and charitable sectors to make the necessary system changes in support of the Government's new national strategy which specifically targets rough sleeping. As an independent, local charity we are doing everything we can to support people pushed into homelessness. We will continue to keep our doors open whilst at the same time advocating for better local services to support people in crisis and wherever possible, prevent anyone from having to sleep rough in the first place.”
-Henry Meacock, Chief Executive of St Petrocs.

Local impact in Cornwall

The snapshot is a single-night estimate and does not capture the full scale of homelessness, including those in temporary accommodation, sofa surfing, or living in insecure housing.
Rising private rents, a shortage of affordable housing, limited availability of social homes and the ongoing cost-of-living pressures are all contributing to more people being pushed into homelessness. Rural and coastal communities in Cornwall face additional challenges, including seasonal work patterns and limited access to support services in more remote areas.

How the public can help

St Petrocs urges everyone in Cornwall to take action:

• If you see someone sleeping rough, report it to StreetLink so they can be connected with support.
• Support St Petrocs through donations, fundraising, or volunteering - helping provide vital services and ensure no one in Cornwall has to sleep outside.