HUNDREDS of East Lancashire children could be homeless this Christmas, according to new figures.

As part of a Christmas appeal to help homeless children, charity Shelter has revealed an investigation found 902 children in the north west will be without a home over the festive season this year.

Nationally, the figures show the number of homeless families living in bed and breakfast accommodation in England has almost doubled in just three years.

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After receiving regular reports of the devastating impact of life for families in B&Bs and hostels, Shelter conducted an in-depth investigation with 20 families in England currently or recently living in temporary accommodation, which uncovered the shocking realities they face.

Thirteen said they felt unsafe in their accommodation, with some of the worst accounts including exposure to drug and alcohol abuse, fighting, swearing and racist language.

The investigation also found half of the families said their children’s mental or emotional health had been affected, including reports of depression, panic attacks and wetting the bed.

With the number of homeless families on the rise, Shelter is bracing itself for a surge in demand for its already over-stretched advice services.

The charity is calling on the public to help make sure it can be there for Britain’s homeless children this Christmas by donating to its appeal.

Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said: “No child should have to go through the trauma of losing their home, so it is heartbreaking to think that 900 in the north west will wake up homeless this Christmas.

“In the 21st century it cannot be right that homeless children are experiencing severe emotional distress, facing three-hour round trips to school and having to eat their dinner on the floor.

“These days it only takes one thing to push a family into a downward spiral which can end in homelessness, and we’re bracing ourselves for an increase in demand from families who desperately need our help to keep a roof over their heads.

“Our advisers will be working tirelessly to support people who find themselves homeless this Christmas but it’s getting harder and harder for us to be there for every family that needs us.

“We urgently need more support from the public to help us make sure no-one has to fight homelessness on their own this Christmas.”