The issue of homelessness is often associated with urban environments, but it’s a growing crisis in rural areas too. The problem is, rural homelessness is often hidden and overlooked, making it even more challenging to address.
In a new animation produced by our friends at the University of Kent, we delve into the complexities of rural homelessness, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by individuals in these areas. The animation highlights the stark reality that homelessness isn’t confined to city streets. It’s prevalent in rural areas too, with people sleeping rough, sofa surfing, or living in vehicles.
The vast, uninhabited expanses of the countryside make it difficult for those experiencing homelessness to find support. Most homelessness support services are concentrated in towns or more urban areas, leaving rural communities underserved.
While some rural communities have taken it upon themselves to address this shortfall, they can’t be expected to shoulder this burden alone. Moreover, this kind of informal support often means that homelessness remains hidden because it’s not officially reported.
The animation underscores the urgent need to improve the way we count rural homelessness. The housing and cost of living crisis is driving an increase in homelessness everywhere, but rural areas face additional challenges.
There’s a severe shortage of affordable housing in rural areas, and the properties that are available often aren’t the right size or price. Coupled with a low wage-high rent economy, private rental homes are increasingly unaffordable, and housing benefits often don’t cover rents.
People in rural areas are also far away from support services. Public transport to urban areas is often too expensive, and in some areas, it’s non-existent.
The animation ends with a call to action: we need to raise awareness among the public and policymakers. We need more affordable housing in rural areas, and we need to ensure that housing benefits cover rents. We need to provide affordable transport and access to support.
While we don’t yet know the true numbers of rural homelessness, we know that it’s a growing, hidden crisis. By sharing this animation, we hope to raise awareness of rural homelessness and encourage people to share the animation.
Let’s work together to unmask this hidden crisis and ensure everyone, no matter where they live, has a place to call home.
Watch and share our animation to help raise awareness of rural homelessness. Together, we can make a difference. #RuralHomelessnessCounts
Watch the animation here:
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