Migrant homelessness crisis

By Soraya G Navarro 27 March 2025

Tony and Victor are facing homelessmess Both arrived from Romania nine years ago and they are trapped in a cycle of homelessness and mental health challenges, making it difficult for them to find stability and access to support.

   Tony, in his late 50s, has been living in the Kingston area for over a decade and struggles with a disability after a work injury left him unable to walk correctly. “I can’t work on a site anymore because of my leg; the pain is unbearable, and I have depression. I don’t have access to benefits because I am undocumented, and I lost my passport,” Tony said. “I just want to raise enough money to buy my ticket and return to my country, but I can’t.” Unable to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme, which would grant him the right to remain and work in a different sector in the UK, Tony is unable to access benefits or housing support that could help him rebuild his life.

Victor, also from Romania, faces similar challenges. “I just need a single room. I got my papers, and want to work, but I don’t have a place to live.” Despite reaching out to Kingston Council for help, Victor is often provided with short-term accommodation, struggling with mental health and lack of English, affecting his ability to keep his place. “I am feeling overwhelmed by constant worry,” Victor said.

    Tony and Victor have been unable to access adequate healthcare or counselling due to their legal status, making their situation more difficult, their experiences reflect the ongoing situation in the Kingston area, where migrant homelessness has been increasing by 70% in the last couple of years, according to the organisations Crisis UK and Shelter, prolonged homelessness can lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Photo Soraya G Navarro

    In response to the crisis, charities and local organisations have been stepping up. Food bank charities and community volunteers like Mary, who has been supporting the homeless for the last three years, provide meals, tea, and coffee to homeless and vulnerable people struggling financially and facing complex mental health issues. Mary emphasises: “ It’s not just about providing food, but we are offering compassion and a sense of dignity and emotional support.” Volunteers are also receive mental health training to support homeless individuals, especially those facing complex health issues.

    The visitors exceed around 120 per week; residents have voiced their concerns to councillors and landlords for action as volunteers at the food bank are under pressure to provide food and support.

    Despite significant efforts by around 200 volunteers around our community, training and donations, the legal challenges and lack of access to professional mental health support continue to leave homeless like Tony and Victor without the stability they need.