Investment in housing at the heart of building a fairer Scotland

Shelter Scotland has today welcomed the First Minister’s recognition that investment in housing needs to be a fundamental part of delivering a fairer Scotland.

The charity said it was vital that action swiftly follows the recent declaration of a national housing emergency.

It warned that the upcoming Programme for Government can’t be ‘more of the same’, but must instead set out plans to deliver the social homes Scotland needs and to properly resource local homelessness services.

Shelter Scotland Director, Alison Watson, said:

“Last week, the Scottish Government declared a housing emergency, so it’s vital that actions now follow words.

“I’m glad that today the First Minister recognised that investment in housing is vital in building a fairer Scotland. The First Minister’s aim to eradicate child poverty is a noble one, but it simply won’t happen while child homelessness continues to grow in Scotland. 

“Politicians from across the political spectrum have recognised the reality of the housing emergency in Scotland, so they have a responsibility to work together to deliver the necessary solutions. 

“The upcoming Programme for Government can’t just be more of the same; an emergency situation absolutely demands an emergency response.”