Rennie: Government should be ashamed of devastating homelessness numbers

Scottish Liberal Democrat communities spokesperson Willie Rennie MSP has today called on the Government to tackle the “devastating numbers” on homelessness in Scotland and called for an immediate intervention to end homelessness.  

Figures show that up to the 30th of September 2022, there were:  

• 19,066 homelessness applications, up 6% on figures in 2021.  

• 28,944 open homelessness applications, which is the highest figure since records began in 2002.  

• 9,130 children in temporary accommodation, which is 10% more than 2021.  

Analysis by the Scottish Liberal Democrats previously showed that, on 25 December 2021, there were 25,458 live homelessness applications, covering 29,196 adults and 13,876 children, for a total of 43,072 homeless people in Scotland.

Mr Rennie said:

“This SNP/Green Government should be ashamed of today's figures. We need immediate action to bring down these devastating numbers.  

“It is a basic responsibility to ensure every person has a place to call home and most of us take for granted that we will be comfortable and secure with a roof over our heads.

“For many Scots, this is not the case and with looming cuts to council budgets, it is hard to see how these figures will be reduced.

“Scottish Liberal Democrats believe that we must have a focus on prevention and supporting those at risk of being homeless. There is a huge risk that failure to follow our calls will see an even bigger increase in those made homeless.”