We should all have access to a safety net when we really need it. More than 3 million people in our communities have no access to basic government help, even in times of crisis. This means that an illness, the breakdown of a relationship or the loss of a job can very quickly push them deep into poverty and onto the streets.

What needs to change? The policy responsible for this, known as No Recourse to Public Funds, must be abolished. Instead, existing systems for means-testing access to the social safety net should decide who gets access to support and when. In particular, support to prevent and reduce destitution and homelessness must be available to everyone at risk, not just those with British passports.