Calls on the government to end rough sleeping by Christmas w/ Kick Back co-founder Aaron Hendry: 7th September, 2026

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced last week his goal of ending rough sleeping in the country by Christmas. He noted the government’s accomplishments in this area during the COVID 19 pandemic, indicating that if it’s been done before, it can be done again. In response to this announcement, New Zealand youth development organisation Kick Back has called on our government to do the same and end rough sleeping by Christmas.  The call follows policies from this government cutting supports to social housing and move-on orders for rough sleepers. With the current government's policies putting increasing pressure on Aotearoa's homeless population, providing support becomes increasingly crucial.  To discuss the call, how the government has managed homelessness, and solutions Aotearoa can implement, News Director Castor spoke to Kick Back co-founder Aaron Hendry.