New national statistics released today show that despite the tough economic times, the number of those accepted as homeless is down by 72 per cent since 2003.

The figures show that 9,430 households were accepted as homeless by local authorities between October to December 2009 - a 22 per cent reduction compared to the same time last year.

The number of households in temporary homes on 31st December 2009 has also fallen by 21 per cent since the same date last year - down to 53,370 - showing that local authorities have almost met the 2010 target of halving the number of households in temporary accommodation.

Homelessness Minister Ian Austin said: "One of the greatest successes of this Government is its record on tackling homelessness, but this wouldn't have been possible without the expertise and most of all commitment and support from across the homelessness sector.

"From councils to charities, they've got behind the policy and made it happen on the ground. Today's figures are a testament to all that hard work.

"However, there is still more work to be done. That's why we have invested £220 million over three years in local authorities and the voluntary sector, to continue this drive to reduce levels of homelessness even further.

"At the same time we've put in place a comprehensive range of support to help families struggling to pay their mortgage and this has already helped over 330,000 families stay in their homes during the recession and made sure repossession is the last resort."