More than half losing sleep over housing pressures

More than half (57%) of people facing housing pressures in England have struggled to sleep over the past year, new research from Shelter shows.

That’s around 11m being kept awake by concerns like soaring rents and the fear of eviction.

Common concerns

According to a study by YouGov for Shelter and HSBC UK, over 67% have reported housing pressures over the last year.

Additionally:

• 21% struggle to keep up with mortgage or rent payments.
• 10% worry about being evicted.
• 37% have cut back on essentials just to make ends meet.

Mental health impacts

These pressures are impacting mental health too.

A staggering 71% of people with housing costs feel anxious about their situation, while nearly half (49%) report feelings of hopelessness.

Take Deborah, 72, from Sheffield. After her landlord doubled their rent, she tried to negotiate and mentioned repairs that needed doing.

Instead, she was served a section 21 eviction notice.

The stress took a toll on her health, leading to sleepless nights and worsened heart conditions.

She said: “I felt under constant pressure, all day, every day… We weren't functioning properly; we were just addled by the stress and lack of sleep. I started making mistakes at work, and at one point, I felt like the stress was rendering me unable to do my job.” 

Don’t wait until it’s too late

Shelter and HSBC UK are encouraging anyone feeling the strain to seek help – don’t wait until it’s too late.

Nadeem Khan from Shelter emphasises the importance of reaching out early.

He says: “Every day, across our frontline teams, we see and hear about the crippling financial pressures and heartbreaking situations people are facing.”

Maxine Pritchard from HSBC UK adds: “If you’re feeling worried about your finances or housing situation this new year, you’re not alone – and getting advice and support early can make all the difference.  

“Home is everything, and together with Shelter, we’re working to help more people and communities build financial resilience and access meaningful support before they reach a crisis point.”

Getting support

Whether it's housing advice or financial support, reaching out could help you sleep a little better at night, especially if you’re facing eviction.

You can find support on Shelter’s website, while HSBC UK also offers resources like financial wellbeing webinars and health checks for those in need.