RESPONDING to the homelessness statistics released today by the Scottish Government, Alison Watson, head of Services at Shelter Scotland, says:
“We have been warning for some time that the number of people presenting as homeless could rise as the effects of government cuts, job losses and welfare reforms start to bite. This is only a small increase, but we are concerned it is the beginning of an upward trend.
“While any increase in homelessness is disappointing, it is encouraging that the number of people assessed as priority need by local authorities shows improvement. We congratulate those local authorities who have made progress toward meeting the 2012 commitment on homelessness and urge councils struggling to meet this commitment to redouble their efforts.
“The six per cent increase in people being housed in temporary accommodation – including a 14 percent rise in families with children – illustrates the urgent need to build many more affordable homes across Scotland.”
Ends/
Notes to Editors:
- Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity. Shelter Scotland believes that everyone should have a home. We help people find and keep a home. We campaign for decent housing for all.
- Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
- For more information about Shelter Scotland visit www.shelter.org.uk
- Follow Shelter Scotland on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/shelterinscotland Twitter – http://twitter.com/shelterscotland
MEDIA RELEASE posted by Shelter Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Sarah Webster
Phone: 0844 515 2442
Email: sarah_webster@shelter.org.uk
Website: http://www.shelter.org.uk
