A number of Oxford University academics are relying on charities to eat, homeless campaigners warned today.

Unprecedented demand on income is leaving many on the brink in the historic city, including lecturers at the university. Around 150 people a week seek support, food and even a shower from the charity Oxford Gatehouse.

Their CEO Sasha East said: “We get full-time workers coming here every week for food because after paying their bills, they can't afford to eat. People have this false perception that those using homelessness services always have addiction issues.

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"But we have had Oxford University academics seeking our help simply to eat. Oxford’s homelessness problem has grown significantly. The cost-of-living crisis is an obvious factor, but housing, particularly the complex rental market, is also a big driver."

Rough sleeping numbers have rocketed in the city in the past 12 months, while the cost-of-living crisis, coupled with Oxford’s shrinking and costly rental market, is leaving many 'on the brink', according to charity workers.

The stark warning comes ahead of Oxford CEO Sleepout which takes place on Oct. 9 at University Parks to raise much-needed funds for the homeless.

Ms East added: "People are being pushed to breaking point. We see it in their eyes, in their stories and in the sheer number of people needing food, warmth and safety.

"The funds raised through CEO Sleepout are critical. Without them, we simply couldn’t meet the demand.”

Launched more than 10 years ago with two events in the North East. CEO Sleepout has raised £5.5m nationally to support hundreds of frontline causes.

Business leaders spend a night sleeping in the cold. This year, the charity will start a record number of events across the UK. “In an ideal world, CEO Sleepout wouldn't exist,” said Bianca Robinson, who is CEO of the charity.

“Sadly though, since it launched, the UK’s homelessness problem has got worse each year and Government after Government has failed to do enough to tackle it.”

Their new campaign ‘At Your Doorstep’ aims to encourage entrepreneurs and business leaders to tackle homelessness.

"You don’t need to be a billionaire to make a difference," added Bianca. "You just need a sleeping bag, one night, and a big enough heart to help.”