Good Shepherd Centre referrals to homelessness and housing services rose 54% in 2025.
Rural homelessness is one of the most hidden and under-recognised issues facing communities across the Midlands and the South East.
The Good Shepherd Centre's Annual Report shows referrals to its homelessness and housing support services increased by 54% in 2025.
The report also identifies a lack of emergency accommodation, specialist services and poor public transport as key barriers for people experiencing homelessness in rural communities.
Noel Sherry, CEO of The Good Shepherd Centre, says stigma is also a huge barrier:
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