Exeter rough sleeping figures hit record low but challenges remain

The number of people rough sleeping in Exeter has fallen to its lowest recorded level, with 11 individuals identified in the latest official count. However, city leaders warn that efforts must continue to eliminate rough sleeping altogether.

Exeter City Council welcomed the reduction but stressed that "11 people rough sleeping on our streets is still 11 too many," according to Cllr Marina Asvachin, Lead Councillor for Housing, Homelessness Prevention and Customer Services.

The latest rough sleeper count took place overnight on 11 November 2024, as part of the annual requirement for local authorities in England to conduct a one-night count between 1 October and 30 November.

The operation was carried out by the council’s commissioned partner Julian House, alongside representatives from St Petrock’s and Homeless Link, who verified the results.

Five teams covered key locations across the city, including the city centre, outskirts, and river routes, from 1am to 5am. However, the council recognises that rough sleeping figures fluctuate, and additional individuals may not have been accounted for in the single-night survey.

“Currently, our data indicates there are 14 individuals who regularly sleep rough in Exeter, demonstrating that there is still significant work ahead to end rough sleeping in the city,” Cllr Asvachin added.

With overnight temperatures remaining below freezing, Exeter City Council has extended its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to provide additional emergency accommodation for rough sleepers.

The council announced on Monday 3 March that SWEP will remain in place until at least Wednesday 5 March, with further reviews as weather conditions change.

Cllr Asvachin urged the public to remain vigilant, warning that “every night that someone sleeps rough on the streets, they are seriously at risk. That risk increases when temperatures fall below freezing.”

The council is also reminding residents that they can report anyone they believe to be sleeping rough through StreetLink, a service that connects those in need with local homelessness support.

SWEP ensures that individuals verified by outreach services as rough sleeping will be offered emergency accommodation where available. The council continues to work closely with partners across the city to make additional spaces accessible during periods of extreme weather