565,000 households are now living in overcrowded conditions in England, the latest Communities and Local Government (CLG) figures show.

Shelter research shows that living in overcrowded housing harms the health of children, makes it more difficult for them to study, and causes depression, anxiety and stress in the home.

Adam Sampson, Chief Executive of Shelter said: "Its shocking that in the 21st century we are seeing a rise in the number of people trapped in cramped, squalid conditions that have more in common with the Dickensian era than those of a modern nation.

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"The antiquated overcrowding standard hasn't changed since 1935 and considers kitchens and living rooms as acceptable places to sleep. The Government pledged 2009 would be the year they updated it so it's more urgent than ever they keep their word."

Mr Sampson added: "But updating the standard alone will make no difference to these families unless the Government ensures that more family sized homes are urgently delivered on the ground."

(CD/JM)