Homelessness charities hit out at 200,000 housing vacancies

Homelessness charities have described as scandalous latest Census figures that show almost 200,000 houses are lying empty around the country while thousands of people are trapped in emergency homeless accommodation.

The first results from the 2016 Census show that there are 259,562 vacant dwellings in the country. Discounting the 61,204 that are categorised as holiday homes, there are still enough properties to house all those who are homeless and on housing waiting lists.

The Simon Communities said the figures showed the need for a clear strategy for using empty housing stock.