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Thousands of hidden homeless people need support

The level of homelessness in London is bigger than the number of people sleeping on the streets - about 13 times bigger, according to a report.

Each night, as many as 12,500 people resort to sleeping on public transport, squatting or sofa surfing, the report Hidden Homelessness in London found.

Many of these people are hidden from official statistics and, therefore, cannot receive the help they need.

Their desperation can also place them in dangerous situations and they risk being abused or assaulted.

Sian Berry, chair of the London Assembly housing committee, which compiled the report, said the people sleeping on the streets are "just the tip of an iceberg".

She added: "In fact, 13 times more Londoners are hidden and homeless than are visibly sleeping rough.

"Young people, asylum seekers and people escaping domestic violence can find it hard to get help due to gaps in current policies, and many don't even try to seek help.

"So-called sofa surfing is common and people can end up staying with virtual strangers where they are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

"With the Homelessness Reduction Act coming soon, the housing committee wants to see more action on this problem.

"We need the Mayor and the Government to rally behind local authorities with support to reach every Londoner who needs help."

Among those affected are young people, with only one in five asking for help from their local council.

Some of those who do request help are not seen as vulnerable, despite being in danger.

Others affected include those ineligible for homelessness support and those escaping domestic violence.

The report calls for the Government to give more funding to London's local authorities to deal with the problem and also for legislation guaranteeing an abuse victim's right to remain in their home, instead of their abuser.

Terrie Alafat, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Housing, said the homelessness problem is "acute" in London, having risen "steadily" since 2010.

"To have so many people homeless in 2017 is quite simply a national disgrace and something we must act on now."