In a controversial move, Home Secretary Suella Braverman is pushing for new legislation that would limit the use of tents by homeless individuals in built-up areas, according to a report from The Financial Times.

Braverman’s proposals reportedly include the possibility of fines for charities that distribute tents leading to disturbances, such as blocking shop doorways. The proposed measures aim to address concerns about the impact of tents on urban environments.

Sources within Whitehall claim that Braverman is advocating for these changes to be incorporated into two clauses of a forthcoming criminal justice bill. The suggested law would apply specifically to tents deemed as nuisances, and exemptions might be granted for use on private property.

One insider revealed, “Braverman has formally pitched a ban on tents in urban areas—except on your own land or the back garden—as well as a new civil penalty for charities to stop them giving out tents to homeless people for free.”

The proposed restrictions, however, are accompanied by assurances that support services for those affected would be implemented. The aim is to guide homeless individuals towards shelters and assistance, rather than relying on makeshift shelters.

This development comes in the wake of the government’s announcement last year to repeal the 1824 Vagrancy Act, a move intended to decriminalise begging and rough sleeping. Additionally, a commitment of £2 billion over three years was made to address homelessness.

Despite these initiatives, a recent report highlights a concerning 26% increase in rough sleeping compared to the previous year. The root causes, as identified in the study, include a severe shortage of affordable housing and insufficient support services. The ongoing cost of living crisis is exacerbating these issues, pushing more individuals into homelessness.

According to the government’s rough sleeping snapshot for autumn 2022, over 3,000 people were estimated to be sleeping rough in England.