The University of Plymouth and local Citizens Advice services have launched a new research project into Hidden Homelessness in the Plymouth, Cornwall and South Hams areas.

The project is designed to offer a detailed insight into the extent of - and problems faced by - people have to rely on others to keep a roof over their heads.

This includes people having to sofa surf, living in overcrowded shared accommodation, living with family or partners where the relationship has broken down or living with parents as an adult where this is causing problems.

Through an anonymous online survey, the researchers hope to gain an understanding of people’s reasons for not having a home of their own and the challenges that poses for them and the people they’re staying with.

Their answers will be included in a report - to be published later this year - that will help shape future actions and policies for local Citizens Advice, other charities, government bodies and local councils.

Citizens Advice Cornwall research and campaigns officer, Wailim Wong, said: “While everyone is familiar with rough sleeping on the streets, there are many more people living in unsuitable accommodation with no hope of finding their own place and moving on with their lives as rents in our area have continued to soar.

“Working with the researchers at the University of Plymouth, we want to find out how these conditions are affecting people’s lives, such as their mental health, financial wellbeing and practicalities such as sharing bedrooms and living space as an adult.”

Dt Nigel Jackson, associate professor at the University’s Plymouth Business School, said: “This research will be presented to local and national policymakers, housing and homeless organisations and other charities to help form policies that could help ease the situation.

“We really need to hear from people about their situations or those of friends and relatives who may not even consider themselves part of the army of hidden homeless people.”

Anyone willing to take part can fill out the anonymous survey via the Citizens Advice Cornwall website at www.citizensadvicecornwall.org.uk