During the 2011/12 financial year there were a total of 50,290 acceptances - an increase of 14% from 44,160 the previous year.
The figures were released by the Department for Communities and Local Government.
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Campbell Robb, Chief Executive of Shelter said: "These shocking figures show that yet again homelessness is rising. Behind the numbers are ordinary families who have lost the battle that so many are fighting to stay in their homes.
"With high unemployment, cuts to the housing safety net and the rising cost of living all taking their toll, there’s a real concern that thousands more families will face the same nightmare in the coming months and years.
"It's vital that anyone who is facing difficulty paying their rent or mortgage seeks advice as early as possible from an organisation like Shelter. Our advisers can help stop things spiralling out of control."
(CD)
