THE majority of young Scots are losing hope of getting the right home.
Says a spokesperson: “New research for Shelter Scotland has revealed that 61 per cent of Scotland’s 18 to 34 year-olds believe that in four years’ time it will be tougher for them to access the right type of housing.
“The TNS BMRB survey on behalf of Shelter Scotland also found that in four years’ time 22 per cent expect to be living in social housing, 19 per cent in the private rented sector and six per cent living with their parents – despite 72 per centsaying they would ideally like to own their home by this time.
“Shelter Scotland says the findings create a bleak snapshot of housing in the future as seen through the eyes of young Scots and that they send a warning to Scotland’s politicians about lack of ambition in meeting their housing needs.
“The housing charity added that, at a time of runaway youth unemployment, the clear message is young people in Scotland are losing hope of being able to realise even the most basic of needs – a decent, affordable rented home from where they can plan their future.”
Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity said:
“Young people in Scotland have been the big losers of a broken housing system which has failed to provide for people’s real housing needs.
“But if Scotland is to retain and attract the young people that are its future, then a much more balanced housing system is needed – one that views renting as a key step in the housing journey.”
Graeme Brown added:
“For most people, the first step on the housing ladder is not to buy, but to live in private rented or social housing. This provides a stable beginning in an environment where people can plan and save for their future.
“Bearing in mind that the private rented sector currently only provides for around ten per cent of households and demand for social housing outstrips supply, the challenge for the new Scottish Government is how best to increase choice at the start of the housing journey.
“The lesson of the last few years must be that there is no short cut. Only investment in affordable homes to rent – either in the social or private sectors – can provide the safety net that families and individuals need to take their first steps towards sustainable, affordable, good-quality housing.”
Ends/
Notes to Editors:
1. The TNS BMRB survey asked 464 18-34 year-olds in Scotland about their expectations and aspirations for housing in four years’ time. 61 per cent said they believed it would be more difficult to find the type of housing they need in four years’ time. The survey was carried out face-to-face, in-home, between 21st – 27th March and 26th April – 2nd May 2011.
2. 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.
3. Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442.
4. For more information about Shelter Scotland visit www.shelter.org.uk
5. 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: Nei Baldwin
Phone: 0844 515 2442
Website: http://www.shelter.org.uk
