New figures published today (Wednesday) highlight the need for more affordable rented homes for Scotland.

The latest Social Trends figures [1] show that nearly 60 per cent of men and 39 per cent of women, aged 20-24 still lived with their parents in 2006. They also show first time buyers faced average house prices in 2005 that were 204 per cent higher than in 1995 - during which time average salaries only rose by 92 per cent. To top it all - in 2005 Scotland experienced the highest house price increase of any area of the UK.

Archie Stoddart, director of Shelter Scotland, housing and homelessness charity, said first time buyers needed real choices, adding that Scotland's housing organisations were clear the way to ensure people could have them was by providing more affordable homes for rent [2].

'These figures again show there is a growing polarisation between housing 'haves' and 'have nots'. The disproportionate rise in house prices compared to income shows that unless you earn a hefty salary, are prepared to take on huge debt or have parents who can help you out, finding a place of your own is now just a pipe dream for most people,' he said.

'And while it's hard for even affluent young professionals, families on the lowest pay are hit the hardest of all - unable to find anywhere to buy or even rent at today's prices. This is why we must see an increased investment in affordable rented housing in Scotland to give people real choices and tackle this crisis.'

Notes to Editors

1. Office of National Statistics' Social Trends report
2. Shelter Scotland, along with other housing organisations, are calling for 30,000 affordable rented homes for Scotland through this year's comprehensive spending review. For more information visit the media room at www.shelter.org.uk/csr_media
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