A new website has been launched to help Scottish students make sure they get their tenancy deposits back.

As the semester ends for the summer, thousands of Scottish students will be leaving flats all over the country to go home or move on - many may face problems reclaiming their tenancy deposits.

Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity, has launched a website to help these students and offer vital information for those thinking about renting.

Archie Stoddart, director of Shelter Scotland, said: 'It is essential that students who are having problems reclaiming their deposits from a private landlord or letting agent visit the site. Those who are thinking about renting should also log on to get clued up on deposits before they seal the deal. Doing this should clear up any confusion they have and hopefully reduce the risk of having all or some of their deposit withheld at the end of the tenancy.'

Shelter Scotland has called for a tenancy deposit protection scheme in Scotland - following the introduction of one in England this year. The charity is asking people who have had their deposit unfairly withheld to get in touch through the website to help make the case for such a scheme in Scotland [2].

Archie Stoddart added: 'While most landlords deal with their tenants' money fairly, there are a number who withhold it without valid reasons. This can cause hardship, misery and insecurity to tenants. In some cases, having a deposit unfairly withheld can contribute to homelessness, as households cannot afford to move on.

'The parliament already has the power to introduce a tenancy deposit scheme. Shelter Scotland is calling on the new Executive to make protection for tenants' deposits a reality during this Parliament.

'For all the 'need to know' information and to get in touch people can visit www.shelter.org.uk/deposits '

Notes to Editors

1. For all the information on tenancy deposits visit www.shelter.org.uk/deposits  
2. Recent legislation (The Housing (Scotland) Act 2006) gave a commitment to rent deposits. The Executive is currently looking into the possibility of a scheme.
3. Shelter believes everyone should have a home and helps 170,000 people a year fight for their rights, get back on their feet, and find and keep a home. We also tackle the root causes of Britain's housing crisis by campaigning for new laws, policies and solutions.
4. Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
5. For more information about Shelter visit www.shelter.org.uk