There are 60 per cent more rough sleepers on the streets of Slough than in 2022 according to the latest data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

In 2023, 34 people were considered homeless in Slough - whether the individuals were sleeping rough on the streets or whether they were housed and met a set of conditions set out by the government.

The government states: "Such households are rarely homeless in the literal sense of being without a roof over their heads, but are more likely to be threatened with the loss of, or are unable to continue with, their current accommodation."

Just one year before in 2022, there were 13 fewer people on the streets - with 21 people considered homeless. 

Even fewer were reported in 2021, with 19 considered homeless.

Meanwhile, in Windsor and Maidenhead, the homeless figures have more than doubled in the last two years. 

In 2022, 10 people were considered homeless, jumping up to 25 in 2023.

Slough Outreach is a grassroots community initiative to help the homeless and vulnerable people in the town and surrounding areas.

They provide hot meals, warm clothing, and much-needed essentials to the homeless and those struggling with the rising cost of living.

Shin Dhother, Slough Outreach Coordinator said: "Slough Outreach is deeply concerned by the rise in homelessness. While I can't comment on specific figures, we are seeing a significant increase in the need for our service. 

"Lack of affordable housing, mental health challenges, and addiction are major issues faced by the homeless. We believe a multi-pronged approach is needed, including increased investment in affordable housing, support services, and mental health care.

"While improvements exist, such as few more temporary accommodation places, more needs to be done to ensure everyone has a safe and secure home."

Slough Outreach provide 120 hot meals to members of the community each day, with Shin estimating 70 to 80 per cent of recipients are homeless, with the remainder classed as vulnerable.

Currently, the charity is seeking donations of everyday essentials, such as ready-to-eat food, clothing and basic mobile phones to enable people to access key services.

Any donations can be handed into Slough Outreach's charity shop on Elmshott Lane.

"We have become a one-stop shop," Shin added.

In the long run, Shin hopes to see a communal shelter set up. 

"There needs to be a better support system. If agencies work together we can find a solution."