LABOUR has urged the government to commit to a pledge ensuring that no-one will spend this winter on the streets as fears grow over the lack of available beds during the ongoing pandemic.

The party’s call came as temperatures plunge to zero or below during the night in many parts of England.

A third of homeless organisations and local authorities expect to see decreased capacity this winter, with HomelessLink charity research warning that around 6,500 rough sleepers may be turned away.

Front-line charities and organisations have also told Labour that many night shelters are closed because of Covid-19 restrictions, and that there are less than half the usual number of volunteers.

Before the pandemic, rough sleeping had already doubled over the 10 years of successive Conservative governments.

Many rough sleepers were given emergency accommodation during the spring coronavirus lockdown, but recent data suggests that more people are again sleeping on the streets.

The number of new rough sleepers between April and June in London was up almost 80 per cent on the previous year.

There are also concerns that the government’s threats to deport some foreign nationals who are sleeping rough could deter them from seeking or accepting help from charities or authorities.

Shadow housing secretary Thangam Debbonaire said: “Even before the crisis, rough sleeping was a shameful sign of government failure.

“This winter, without the last resort of night shelters, rough sleeping is more desperate than ever.

“The government promised to end rough sleeping for good – it must ensure everyone has a safe, Covid-secure place to stay this winter.”

A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: “We’ve taken unprecedented action to support the most vulnerable people in our society during the pandemic, backed by over £700 million to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping this year alone.

“Operating principles to help night shelters open safely where they are required have been published – and our comprehensive package of support will ensure councils and voluntary organisations have the tools and funding they need to support vulnerable rough sleepers off the streets this winter.”