Homelessness is the country’s "best-kept secret" and is on the rise, psychologist Paulann Grech told experts on Friday.

During a conference in memory of activist Charles Miceli, Dr Grech said that homelessness often led to mental health concerns, shame and anger.

Sociologist Ann Marie Cutajar noted there was no clear definition for homeless people in Malta. The data available looked at those who were found sleeping rough, but did not present an accurate picture, she added.

Read: Number of officially homeless in Malta is 'not a reality’

Data presented in Parliament showed that 27 people were reportedly found sleeping rough over the past five years. However, leading charities who worked with the homeless said this was a far cry from reality.

"What about the person who is informally staying with friends and family but who cannot afford a place of their own? What about those who are living in ‘overshared’ apartments?" Ms Cutajar asked.

Housing rights were also a vague issue under Maltese legislation, leading many to resort to inadequate or insecure housing, Ms Cutajar said.

Read: Don't blame the housing market for homelessness - Housing Authority boss

YMCA CEO Anthony Camilleri warned the country was not giving homelessness the value it deserved.

He also warned of the emergence of the “working homeless”- people who had a job but who could not afford a roof over their heads.

"We receive five referrals a day and we have to turn them down because we are full," he said. "Where are these people going," he asked.