News / homelessness
Campaigners renew warnings on people sleeping in waste bins
Campaigners have renewed calls about the dangers of people sleeping in waste bins as rough sleeping has reached record levels in England.
New figures from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government show 4,793 people slept rough on a single night in autumn 2025 – a 56 per cent rise in three years.
In the South West, numbers increased by 11 per cent to 585.
Recycling firm Grundon Waste Management has partnered with homelessness charity Crisis to relaunch its “Risks of Sleeping in Bins” campaign, aimed at raising awareness among businesses and the public.
The campaign was developed after an incident in Bristol back in December 2024, when a recycling lorry driver found a person sheltering inside a bin that was due to be emptied.
Reg Hodson, head of safety at Grundon, said rising rough sleeping increases the risk of such incidents and urged businesses to carry out regular checks, secure bin areas and ensure staff know the warning signs.
“By taking a few minutes, everyone can play their part in keeping people safe,” he said.
Crisis said people sleeping rough often seek hidden, sheltered spaces to stay warm and safe, but warned this can put them at serious risk.
Francesca Albanese, executive director of policy and social change at Crisis, said: “Facing danger and uncertainty, people sleeping rough can seek safety and shelter in quieter spots where they can also escape from the cold. We are pleased to work with Grundon on this campaign, which we hope will keep people safe from harm.
The charity is calling on the government to increase support, including building more social housing and properly funding homelessness prevention services.
In the South West, number of people who rough sleep has increased by 11 per cent to 585
The campaign includes warning stickers on bins and guidance on spotting signs someone may be sheltering inside, such as broken locks, scattered waste or nearby belongings.
Anyone concerned is urged to contact StreetLink, which connects people to local support services.
Crisis estimates nearly 300,000 people across England are experiencing the most severe forms of homelessness, including rough sleeping, sofa surfing and sleeping in unsafe conditions.
All photos: Grundon
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