Shelter Scotland campaign aims to put housing and homelessness “emergency” 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. This is paid for content and does not necessarily reflect the views of The Scotsman

Housing and homeless charity urges First Minister to acknowledge housing emergency

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 profiles 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, Director of Shelter Scotland, 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.”

To sign the housewarming card for Humza Yousaf and demand an end to the national scandal of over 9,000 children without a home, go to: shelterscotland.org/card