A SALISBURY-based homelessness charity has said it is “upsetting, shocking, but sadly unsurprising” that rough sleeping has reached its highest recorded level in England despite fresh government pledges to tackle the crisis.

New figures from the government’s Autumn 2025 Rough Sleeping Snapshot show 4,793 people were sleeping rough on any given night, a 3% rise on the previous year and a 171% increase since records began in 2010.

In Wiltshire, rough sleeping has increased by 66%.

In the South West, 585 people were found in doorways, under bridges, in tents, cars and car parks – an 11% annual rise.

ALABARÉ said the data reflects what it is seeing on the ground.

Director of care and support at ALABARÉ Naomi Webb said: “The data is upsetting, shocking, but sadly unsurprising. It clearly reflects the demand we’re seeing in our services every single day.

“We are undeniably in a homelessness crisis. At ALABARÉ, we are truly breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing more than just shelter.

“Our wrap-around support includes helping people with their mental health, encouraging our clients to take part in our wellbeing activities, and opening doors to employment and independent living.”

Over the winter, the charity provided unfunded emergency beds for people sleeping rough in freezing conditions.

It says 31% of those who turned to the service secured longer-term supported accommodation.

The reaction comes as ministers announced £50 million in new funding to councils and frontline groups as part of the government’s National Plan to End Homelessness, backed by £3.6 billion.

The package includes a £37 million Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund for voluntary and faith groups, and a £15 million Long-Term Rough Sleeping Innovation Programme targeting 28 high-pressure areas.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed said: “Homelessness is one of the most profound challenges we face as a society.

“This announcement is about helping those incredible frontline workers. It is the next step in our National Plan to End Homelessness which will finally tackle this shameful crisis on our streets.”

Ms Webb welcomed the recognition of frontline charities, adding: “Seeing the Housing Secretary, Steve Reed, and Homelessness Minister, Alison McGovern, acknowledge the need for services like ALABARÉ to lead from the front.

“We’re ready for that challenge and keen to work closely with the government and local authorities to ensure people who are sleeping rough get the support they need and work towards a fulfilling and independent future.”