Alison McGovern Takes on Critical Role as UK Homelessness Minister

A New Chapter in Government Service

Alison McGovern, the Labour Member of Parliament for Birkenhead who has represented her hometown in Parliament since 2010, has taken on a crucial new role in government. In September 2025, McGovern was appointed as Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, with specific responsibility for local government and homelessness issues.

This appointment marks a significant transition for the experienced parliamentarian. When Labour formed a government in July 2024, she was initially appointed Minister of State for Employment at the Department for Work and Pensions, before moving to her current role in September 2025. The timing of her appointment is particularly significant, as she also stepped back from a bid to become deputy prime minister following recent government changes.

The Challenge Ahead: A Growing Crisis

McGovern inherits one of the most pressing social challenges facing England today. Government figures show 324,990 households in England needed council support for homelessness in 2023-24 – a record-high and 8.8% more than in 2022-23. The situation is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, with 169,050 dependent children growing up in temporary accommodation.

In recent parliamentary discussions, McGovern has acknowledged the scale of the challenge whilst defending the government’s approach. Responding to criticism in October 2025, she stated that overturning years of previous policy choices would require time, but emphasised that a comprehensive homelessness strategy is being developed. The government announced an extra £84 million in-year investment for preventing and addressing homelessness.

Political Background and Future Outlook

At the 2024 general election, McGovern was elected to Parliament as MP for Birkenhead with 52% of the vote and a majority of 13,798. She is seen to be on the political right of the Labour Party and chairs Progressive Britain, bringing a particular political perspective to her ministerial role.

McGovern takes on her role at an important moment, with a new cross-governmental Homelessness Strategy expected in the coming months. The minister will also oversee the implementation of important reforms, including the final scrapping of the Vagrancy Act in 2026. As she settles into this demanding position, stakeholders across the homelessness sector have expressed willingness to work constructively with the new minister to address this critical social issue.