A recent study revealed that over half of educators in England, specifically 52%, have been employed at schools where homeless children were present within the last year. Almost a third, totaling 31%, disclosed that they had directly encountered homeless children among their students, while an additional 20% were informed about homeless children they did not personally teach.
The survey, conducted by the charity Shelter, engaged 7,127 teachers from state schools. Another survey by the teachers union NASUWT highlighted that children lacking a stable living environment face challenges like exhaustion, absenteeism, and mental health issues.
Teachers reported that homelessness negatively impacted children’s academic performance, with 75% mentioning poor assessment results and exams due to homelessness. Moreover, 92% observed that homelessness contributed to students coming to school fatigued. Around 83% stated that homelessness led to children missing school days, emphasizing the difficulties faced by parents due to abrupt relocations to different temporary accommodations.
The mental health of children was significantly affected by homelessness, as reported by three-quarters of teachers surveyed. The Labour Party recently introduced a National Plan to End Homelessness, aiming to reduce street homelessness and eliminate families residing in inadequate accommodations. Additionally, the government’s child poverty strategy includes measures to prevent families from being unlawfully housed in Bed and Breakfasts beyond the designated time limit, supported by an emergency fund of £8 million.
Shelter highlighted that more than 175,000 children are currently living in temporary housing, facing frequent relocations between various types of accommodations. Sarah Elliott, Shelter’s CEO, emphasized the detrimental impact of the housing crisis on children’s education, urging the government to increase the delivery of affordable social housing.
Matt Wrack, NASUWT General Secretary, emphasized the adverse effects of homelessness on children’s education and future prospects. School leaders’ union NAHT’s general secretary, Paul Whiteman, called for governmental intervention to address the root causes of homelessness and ensure that children have a secure and stable home environment.
Ayeasha Pemberton, a mother who experienced homelessness for 12 years with her 14-year-old son, shared the challenges they faced due to frequent relocations and unsuitable accommodations. She stressed the emotional toll and educational disruptions her son endured, underscoring the need for fair treatment and stable housing for all families facing homelessness.