Concern over rising number of Scots living in temporary housing
New figures show more Scots are living in temporary accommodation.
Homelessness figures released today show that between October and December last year the number of households in temporary accommodation rose by 2% compared to the same time the previous year.
A total of 10,467 people now live in temporary accommodation.
Glasgow faired worst with figures showing the city having a 16% increase.
Housing charity Crisis is now calling on the Scottish Government to act on recommendations in its Manifesto to End Homelessness to reduce the number of people suffering temporary housing.
Jon Sparkes, chief executive of Crisis, said: “The number of homeless people in temporary accommodation continues to rise across Scotland, and now stands at nearly 10,500 households. Behind these figures are growing numbers of people with their lives on hold, many of them trapped by (a lack of affordable housing) housing pressures and benefit cuts that make it harder for them to move into stable permanent homes.
The next Scottish Government must take action to ensure that unsuitable temporary accommodation is used only as a last resort
“While recent years have seen Scotland blazing a trail in the fight against homelessness, it’s clear that temporary accommodation remains a pressure point. As we called for in our recent manifesto, the next Scottish Government must take action to ensure that unsuitable temporary accommodation is used only as a last resort and that homeless people can move swiftly into suitable, permanent housing.”
The manifesto calls on all political parties to adopt a new cross-departmental strategy for tackling homelessness; commit to investing in a more proactive approach; increase support for homeless people with complex needs; time limit on temporary accommodation; and commit to using devolved powers on social security to prevent homelessness.
Sparkes added: “Our manifesto already has cross-party support, and we welcome the ongoing commitment to tackle the devastating injustice of homelessness. Yet we need this to be followed up with action and we look forward to working with all parties to continue the fight after the election in May.”
