This is the highest level recorded since 2007, according to a new analysis of government figures.
Mark Brennan from Christian charity Housing Justice, told Premier's News Hour this is the tip of the iceberg and homelessness extends to more than people living on the street.
He said there is also a "hidden homelessness, which is focussing on temporary accommodation, precariously housed, living in squats, riding on public transport all night... and for children, such a significant number to be caught up in that, it's absolutely tragic."
Shelter has launched an urgent appeal after a new investigation showed the impacts homelessness on families and children in Britain.
The stats:
- the number of families living in emergency B&B and hostel rooms has risen by 18% in a year
- a new family becomes homeless every 10 minutes
- over 120,000 children in Britain face spending this Christmas homeless and in temporary accommodation, the highest level recorded since 2007
Mark Brennan said a home is more than simply four walls.
"What's the difference between a house and a home?
"A home is somewhere where within those bricks and mortar you've got a community of people who care for you and want to see you flourish as a human being."
The figures found the number of families living in emergency B&B and hostel rooms has risen by 18 per cent in one year.
The investigation found that more than three-quarters of families said they felt their accommodation was unsafe, with the worst accounts involving exposure to drug abuse, fighting, and strangers sleeping in the corridors.
Three-fifths of families had to share toilet and bathroom facilities, often in a poor and unsanitary condition, with other residents.
Listen to Premier's Alex Williams speak to Mark Brennan here:
