Shelter Scotland campaign aims to put social housing at top of First Minister’s agenda

Leading housing and homelessness charity Shelter Scotland is running a campaign targeted at the new First Minister, with the aim of making social housing top of the agenda for the Scottish Government. 

The campaign started on 17 April when Bute House, the official residence of the First Minister, closed for 20 weeks of refurbishment. It highlights the need for more social housing and profile the 9,130 children without a home in Scotland. 

The activity includes a happy new home card for Humza, signed by Shelter Scotland supporters, the illustrated voices of lived experience from people currently living in unsuitable temporary accommodation and a targeted social media takeover. 

Alison Watson, our Director, said: 

“The First Minister needs to acknowledge the housing emergency, and the number of children currently living in temporary accommodation. This activity demonstrates what life is like for a family who live in temporary accommodation. A couple with children in Scotland spends on average 343 days in temporary accommodation and unfortunately it won’t be somewhere as comfortable and safe as the First Minister.  

“Life in temporary accommodation can have devastating effects. It disrupts children’s learning, it places huge strain on family life, and can ruin people’s health. We hope that by running this activity, the First Minister will understand what life is really like for the 9,130 children currently stuck in temporary accommodation and take action to tackle the housing emergency.”