Annual Frontline Worker Survey

Every year, St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity asks frontline staff across the UK about what they are seeing on the ground in the housing and homelessness sector.

Listening to lived and frontline experience has never been more crucial. Our survey this year was completed by a record 1,320 frontline workers, enabling us to amplify their voices and allow them to help shape future policy and practice.

This year’s report, the 8th published, comes at a time when homelessness levels are stuck at near-record numbers. Rough sleeping has risen 20%, with 4,667 people estimated to be sleeping rough in England in Autumn 2024 compared to 3,898 the previous year. Meanwhile, 83,450 households in England qualified for homelessness support from their councils between January and March 2025. Our survey findings reflect these stark statistics.

Our 2025 survey has revealed that most frontline staff (85%) have seen an increase in demand for their service in last 12 months. And 80% think that the homelessness situation will get worse in the coming years.

This rising demand is placing significant strain on frontline workers, with many reporting that the pressures they face are directly affecting their wellbeing and outlook.

“We no longer prevent homelessness as there are no funds to do so, we just deal with the immediate crisis. We go round in circles. Due to budget constraints, we are under constant funding pressure to reduce costs and cut numbers. This means screening homeless people, trying to avoid them accessing temporary accommodation and also cutting staff.” - West Lothian, Local Government Employee

Annual Frontline Worker Survey