The latest homelessness statistics have been released – and the Scottish Greens have lambasted the plight of the homeless – particularly children – ‘a national disgrace’.
Scottish Local Authorities received around 17,100 applications for homelessness assistance during April to September 2016, 3% lower than in the same period in 2015. However, the number of children in temporary accommodation increased by 826 children (+17%), comparing figures at 30 September 2016 with the same date one year ago.
Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released the following two publications:
- Homelessness in Scotland: Update to 30 September 2016
- Housing Options (PREVENT1) Statistics in Scotland: Update to 30 September 2016
Overall, there were 10,570 households in temporary accommodation as at 30 September 2016 – an increase of 97 households (+1%) compared with one year earlier. Over a quarter (3,174 households) included children or a pregnant member of the household – an increase of 355 households (+13%) since the same time last year.
As at 30 September 2016, 27 households were in unsuitable temporary accommodation, with 12 breaches of The Homeless Persons (Unsuitable Accommodation) (Scotland) Order 2014.
With respect to Housing Options, local authorities received 24,355 approaches during April to September 2016, a reduction of 4,605 (-16%) compared to the same six months in 2015. The most common activities undertaken were providing general housing/tenancy advice and informing households of their rights under the homelessness legislation.
For approaches closed during the period of 1 April to 30 September 2016, 44% went on to make a homelessness application, 22% remained in their current accommodation and 17% found alternative accommodation. 17% had an unknown outcome or contact was lost. There is considerable variation in the mix of outcomes by Local Authority area, reflecting the locally developed nature of Housing Options policies.
The figures released today were produced in accordance with professional standards set out in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics.
The Scottish Greens have commented on statistics published by the Scottish Government showing a 17% rise in the the number of children in temporary accommodation. In spite of the figures showing a small decrease in homelessness assistance during April to September 2016, the party says it’s a “national disgrace” that homelessness still exists in Scotland.
Andy Wightman MSP, the Scottish Greens’ housing spokesperson, said: “The reduction in applications for homelessness assistance is welcome, but nevertheless the fact that homelessness still exists, and in such large numbers, in our wealthy country is a national disgrace.
“The Scottish Government also needs to assist children and families to find suitable accommodation because the temporary arrangements can often be inappropriate and cause indirect issues on the wellbeing of youngsters in schools. We already know that teachers, social and healthcare professionals report an increase in instances of anxiety and behavioural issues due to the stress and unfamiliarity of where they are placed.”
The full statistical publication is available at:
http://www.gov.scot/homelessstats
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