Suffolk councils urged to do more as homeless deaths rise
A national charity has called for more urgent action in Suffolk after new figures showed an increase in the number of people dying while homeless in the county.
According to the Museum of Homelessness’ Dying Homeless Project, eight people died while homeless in Suffolk in 2024, up from seven the previous year. Five of the deaths occurred in Ipswich, and three in West Suffolk.
The East of England recorded 96 homeless deaths in total last year — a sharp rise from 68 in 2023. Across the UK, the number rose to 1,611, nearly 300 more than the year before.
“Any Death Is One Too Many”
Gill Taylor, strategic lead for the project, said the increase highlights a growing crisis, despite some progress in local awareness and prevention.
“We remember with love all those who died and continue our work in solidarity with bereaved loved ones and the homeless community,” she said.
Locally, charities and councils say they are working hard to support vulnerable people — but admit more needs to be done.
Bradley Smith, manager of Ipswich Outreach, said:
“We are always saddened to hear about the loss of anyone, especially those we may have supported.
Sadly, we cannot reach everyone, but we do all we can to encourage engagement with services.”
Ipswich Outreach runs a soup kitchen six days a week on Elms Street at 7.30pm, offering food and comfort to those in need.
Cllr Alasdair Ross, Ipswich Borough Council’s housing lead, said:
“Any death is one too many. We’re taking action across the borough to address the challenges facing people who are homeless or at risk.”
Since April, Ipswich Borough Council has supported over 1,000 people through initiatives including mental health support, supported housing, and emergency accommodation.
In West Suffolk, Cllr Richard O’Driscoll confirmed that the three individuals who died had been in temporary accommodation. He urged the public to report anyone suspected of rough sleeping.
“We are hugely saddened by these deaths. We remain committed to preventing homelessness through continued investment in tailored support and accommodation.”
Last year, West Suffolk Council helped 200 households avoid homelessness and supported another 141 people out of it.
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