More than 5,500 Londoners have been identified as being at risk of homelessness, according to the latest government data.

The figures show the extent of London’s housing crisis, with the city also identified as already having a homeless population of more that 7,500 people.

Both figures were higher than those of any other region in England.

The data on statutory homelessness covers the period of July to September 2021.

More than 309 Southwark residents were identified as being at risk of homelessness, while 315 Haringey residents were also seen as being at risk.

‘Behind each statistic is a family’

The borough of Lambeth was found to have the highest level of homelessness in the capital, with more than 400 individuals identified as being homeless.

A further 335 people were identified as being at risk of homelessness within the 56 days after their case was investigated.

Cllr Maria Kay, Lambeth Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said: “These figures underline the scale of housing crisis we face as a community and how hard we are working to address the issue of homelessness in our communities. Becoming homeless can be devastating for families and have a wide range of impacts on their future needs and wellbeing.

“We are doing all we can to stop this cycle despite facing great pressure relating to the amount of housing available in Lambeth, budget cuts and a much higher level of need than many other parts of the country as an inner London borough.

“Behind each statistic is a family dealing with the awful reality of homelessness and I’m proud that so many families have been helped directly thanks to the dedicated work of Lambeth council staff.”

“Homelessness is one of the most pressing challenges we face as a city and as a borough in particular. The number of homeless households has risen and remains high with councils in London having more than two thirds of all temporary accommodation placements in the country.

“This comes at a time when the amount of affordable accommodation has fallen and the private rented sector has become less accessible for those on low income meaning an increasing reliance on temporary accommodation.”