Our latest report reveals the realities faced by families living in temporary accommodation in Leicester. The “Your Voices Matter” insight report draws on the voices of 35 families and uncovers issues related to health, wellbeing, housing conditions and social isolation.
The report, based on direct engagement with families across nine temporary accommodation sites, highlights poor living conditions, food insecurity, mental health challenges and limited access to healthcare services. Many families reported going without sufficient food, lacking basic cooking or washing facilities, and struggling with financial strain, often relying on expensive transport to access schools and health appointments.
Key recommendations from the report include:
- Ensuring temporary accommodation meets basic living standards.
- Improving access to GPs, dentists and mental health services.
- Offering transport and financial support for essential needs.
- Promoting local resources and social connections to reduce isolation.
Harsha Kotecha, Chair of Healthwatch Leicester and Healthwatch Leicestershire, said: “This report gives a voice to some of the most marginalised families in our city. It is unacceptable that children are missing school, people are falling through the cracks of our health system and families are living without the basics many of us take for granted. Their experiences are not just stories – they are a call to action for the local authority and service providers to deliver the support these families need and deserve.”
The findings were presented at the recent Families in Temporary Accommodation Summit and will be shared with the Leicester Homelessness Charter to drive change through partnership working.
Read the report: https://healthwatchll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/HWLL-Your-voices-matter-Families-living-in-temporary-accommodation-insight-report-March-2025.pdf