Scots homeless applications fall but more children in temporary housing

Scottish Local Authorities received around 8,500 applications for homelessness assistance during April to June 2015, 7% lower than in the same period in 2014.

However, the number of children in temporary accommodation increased by 626 children (+15%), comparing figures for 30 June 2015 with one year ago, Scotland’s Chief Statistician quarterly report ‘Homelessness in Scotland’ has revealed.

Overall, there were 10,666 households in temporary homelessness accommodation as at 30 June 2015 – an increase of 472 households (+5%) compared with one year earlier. Over a quarter (2,805 households) were households with children – an increase of 272 households (+11%). On 30 June 2015, 4,896 children were in temporary accommodation – an increase of 626 children (+15%).

In addition to the fall in applications, the number assessed as homeless, or likely to become homeless within two months, fell by around 1,100 (-14%) to 6,600.

Outcomes for those entitled to settled accommodation were maintained, with around four out of five securing settled accommodation – including a Local Authority, housing association or private let as an outcome. This proportion has remained stable since 2007.

The figures were produced by independent statistical staff free from any political interference, in accordance with professional standards set out in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics.

The full statistical publication is available at: http://www.gov.scot/homelessstats