People could be forced into “economic homelessness” because of Government cuts in Brighton and Hove.
Charity workers fear that the Government’s controversial proposed ceiling on benefits will force families onto the streets.
More than 400 households in the city will be affected by the £26,000 cap, it has been revealed.
Andy Winter, chairman of Brighton Housing Trust, said: “For the first time in my lifetime we are going to see people who are going to become homeless not because of alcohol or drugs but because of economic hardship.
“This will be economic homelessness."
Ministers have previously refused to clarify how many people in Sussex would be affected by the decision to limit total benefits to £26,000 a year.
The city’s figures came to light as a result of Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas tabling a parliamentary question to Employment Minister Chris Grayling.
Mr Winter said he been concerned about the proposed cap’s effect on homeless levels in the city but having specific figures would make planning for the changes easier.
Ms Lucas described the numbers as “deeply alarming”.
She said: “At a time of increased joblessness, economic uncertainty and ever increasing living costs, the Government’s determination to slash benefits to meet targets rather than on the basis of genuine need is having a devastating effect on the most vulnerable in this city.”
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