Scottish government urged to commit to ending homelessness

A leading homelessness charity has called on the next Scottish government to prioritise ending homelessness within its first 100 days in office. This appeal follows the re-election of John Swinney as First Minister, with the Scottish National Party securing the most seats in the recent parliamentary election.

Rising Homelessness Figures in Scotland

Recent Scottish government statistics reveal a concerning increase in homelessness. In the year to September 2025, 33,966 households were assessed as homeless or at risk of homelessness. Since 2021, rough sleeping has more than doubled, marking a 111% rise. Additionally, there has been an 18% increase in households assessed as homeless and a 27% rise in those placed in temporary accommodation.

Urgent Call for Government Action

Maeve McGoldrick, head of policy and communications at Crisis Scotland, emphasised the need for stronger government intervention. She described the current situation as “a badge of shame on our nation” and highlighted Scotland’s historic progress in establishing robust homelessness rights. However, she stressed that too many people continue to face homelessness daily.

McGoldrick urged the Scottish government to make ending homelessness a clear national mission from the outset of its term. She pointed to evidence showing that homelessness in Scotland could be eradicated by 2040, provided there is decisive political will and action.

Increasing Social Housing Supply

Central to Crisis Scotland’s recommendations is a commitment to significantly expanding the supply of social housing. McGoldrick stated: “Building enough social homes is essential if we are to end homelessness in Scotland by 2040.” She also called for urgent implementation of Scotland’s prevention duties to reduce the risk of homelessness before it occurs.

With appropriate leadership, investment, and cross-party collaboration, McGoldrick believes Scotland can move closer to ensuring that everyone has access to a safe and affordable home.

Opposition to Rent Controls

While Crisis Scotland focuses on ending homelessness through increased housing supply and prevention, Propertymark, a professional body for letting agents, has urged caution against rent controls. Nathan Emerson, Propertymark’s chief executive, welcomed John Swinney’s re-election but warned that rent controls could deter investment and worsen housing shortages.

Emerson advocated for a review of taxation policies to encourage investment in rental and owner-occupied homes. He also called for pragmatic support for landlords to decarbonise properties, improved collaboration to raise housing standards, and further professionalisation of property agents across Scotland.

What this means for landlords

Landlords should be aware that the Scottish government faces significant pressure to address homelessness through increased social housing and prevention measures. While rent controls are currently discouraged by industry representatives, changes in policy could affect the rental market and investment climate.

Engagement with government initiatives aimed at improving housing standards and decarbonisation may become increasingly important. Landlords may also benefit from closer collaboration with professional bodies to navigate evolving regulations and support mechanisms.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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