🚨 Shocking Rise in Homeless Deaths in Wales 🚨
In a deeply troubling update, new research has revealed that 90 people experiencing homelessness died in Wales last year. Though a small decline from the previous year, it’s still heartbreakingly high. Experts from The Wallich charity describe the figures as “shattering,” emphasising there’s so much more to do.
Cardiff faced the highest toll with 23 deaths, followed by Bridgend with a sharp increase to 11. These tragedies echo nationwide where 1611 lives were lost, a staggering average of four deaths every day in the UK.
It’s heart-wrenching to learn the life expectancy of those sleeping rough remains stuck in the 90s—45 years for men and 43 for women.
Much of this loss is linked to “deaths of despair,” often involving suicide or drugs like spice and nitazenes. As we approach a national vigil on October 9 opposite Downing Street, it’s clear that more action is needed.
The Wallich is pushing for the Welsh Government to fast-track the Homelessness and Social Allocation Bill, urging sensible conversations around mental health, drug use, and a serious fix for the housing shortage.
We must not turn a blind eye to these grim statistics. Let’s commit to changing the narrative for those struggling on our streets. 🕯️💔
#Homelessness #HomelessLivesMatter #Wales #StandTogether #MakeAChange