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What this election must deliver
Ahead of May's elections, we're making our demands clear – so stories like Hayley's finally become a thing of the past.
Our election demands
This election is an opportunity we can't miss. Housing is already emerging as a key issue, and we need every party to commit to building a better Scotland. Here's what we're asking for…
at least 15,693 social homes built every year for the next 5 years
at least £8.8 billion of investment to help build vibrant, accessible communities and delivered where it's needed most
use of existing houses and empty properties – to reduce the number of people facing homelessness or living in unsafe or unsuitable accommodation
a new National Housing and Land Agency focused on building affordable housing
an end to law-breaking and a guarantee that existing rights are here to stay, alongside an enforceable human right to adequate housing as part of the delayed Human Rights Bill
an end to unsafe and harmful temporary accommodation for children
work to end systemic inequality and racism in Scotland's housing system, including working to tackle the systemic racism in our housing system
Why we need change now
Everyone has the right to safe housing – and no one should have to fight like Hayley for a home that's right for them.
After Hayley faced racist abuse in her home, the local housing authority responded by offering Hayley a house in an area notorious for crime.
'I didn't want to live in fear again,' she says.
Hayley successfully appealed, but was then was offered another house an hour away from her children's school.
'I feel like at that point I was just broken,' she remembers. 'I didn't have the fight in me. That’s when I went to Shelter Scotland.'
Hayley called our helpline and was put in contact with Zaira from our Legal team. Together, they prepared to appeal. After hearing this, the local authority overturned its decision, meaning the family didn't have to move an hour away from the school.
My message for Shelter Scotland supporters? Thank you for listening, for having faith, for fighting our corner.
— Hayley