As temperatures drop and the festive season fades, thousands across Lancashire and the wider North West enter the new year facing uncertainty, instability, and the harsh reality of homelessness.

January has long been recognised by charities and local authorities as one of the most challenging periods for people experiencing homelessness. While Christmas shines a temporary spotlight on those in crisis, the pressures don’t end when the decorations come down — in fact, for many, they intensify.

In this blog, we break down what makes January so tough, explore recent statistics on homelessness in the UK, and share how communities across Lancashire can help change the story for the year ahead.

Winter Homelessness: A Growing Crisis

Despite increased public awareness, homelessness continues to rise across England — and winter makes the situation far more dangerous.

According to government data released in late 2024:

• Over 112,000 households were living in temporary accommodation, the highest figure in almost 20 years.

• More than 150,000 children were without a permanent home.

• Rough sleeping increased for the second consecutive year, reversing earlier progress.

• Local councils reported significant pressure on homelessness services, with demand peaking in December and January.

While temporary accommodation can offer safety, it is often unsuitable, cramped, or short-term. B&Bs, shared rooms, and emergency placements are common — especially here in the North West.

Why January Is Especially Hard

1. The coldest temperatures of the year

January consistently brings some of the lowest temperatures in the UK. For people sleeping rough, prolonged exposure to cold weather can be life-threatening.

Local alerts across the North West have already triggered emergency “cold weather provisions”, but these temporary measures are not enough to meet rising demand.

2. A surge in people seeking support after Christmas

Many people in crisis hold out through December, relying on seasonal generosity or temporary arrangements. Once Christmas ends, those fall away.

Charities often report a sharp increase in presentations from early January, including families who can no longer stay with relatives, and individuals leaving unsafe environments.

3. Christmas debt and rising household costs

With the cost of living still high, January becomes a financial tipping point.
Missed rent, heating bills, Christmas spending, or reduced seasonal work can push people into homelessness unexpectedly.

4. Cuts to services and stretched local support

Local councils across the North West continue to face funding pressures. As demand rises, the gap between what people need and what services can provide grows wider.

This creates a perfect storm — more people needing help, fewer resources available.

What Homelessness Looks Like in Lancashire Right Now

While rough sleeping is visible, hidden homelessness is far more widespread in our region. In Lancashire and the surrounding North West:

• Families are being placed in emergency B&Bs that are unsuitable for long-term living.

• More people are sofa-surfing or moving between short-term stays with no stability.

• Domestic abuse remains one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and children.

• Young people, particularly those aged 16–24, are increasingly at risk.

We see every day just how quickly someone’s circumstances can change – and how desperately the community’s support is needed during the hardest months of the year.

How Let’s MAD Supports People Through the Winter

Our mission is simple:
to help people move from crisis to safety, stability, and eventually a home of their own.

This winter, your support helps us provide:

• Emergency accommodation and safe places to stay

• Clothing, bedding, heaters, and warm essentials

• Help with deposits and rent support

• Legal guidance for those escaping dangerous situations

• Ongoing case support so people can rebuild confidently

Every person’s story is different — and every act of support makes a real difference.

How You Can Make a Difference This January

January may be the toughest month of the year for many, but it’s also a time when Lancashire’s community spirit shines brightest.

Here’s how you can help:

🌟 Give the Gift of Sponsorship

Your sponsorship gives someone the chance to move from crisis to safe and stable living.
➡️ www.letsmad.co.uk/contact-us/

🤝 Raise awareness

Share information, talk about the realities of hidden homelessness, and help break the stigma.

🏡 Support local homelessness charities

Whether it’s time, money, or resources — it all makes a life-changing impact.

Together, We Can Change the Story

January may be challenging, but with the compassion and determination we’re known for in Lancashire, we can help ensure that no one faces the bitter cold alone.

Let’s start this year with empathy, action, and hope.

Let’s Make A Difference — together.