Scottish Labour MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy has called for urgent Government action after more than 2,000 children in Glasgow were forced to spend Christmas in temporary accommodation.
Across Scotland, the number of children staying in temporary accommodation has soared to a shameful record high of 8,635.
This includes 2,825 children in Glasgow – an increase of 25% per cent on the previous year and an appalling increase of 495% since 2002.
Overall, the length of time people have to spend in temporary accommodation has also been climbing year-on-year across Scotland, with families being hit hardest by long waits.
In Glasgow couples with children are now typically stuck in temporary accommodation for an average of 359 days.
Commenting, Scottish Labour MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP said:
“It’s shocking that more than 2,000 children across the city were forced to spent Christmas in temporary accommodation.
“Things are at crisis point across Scotland, after years of neglect under the SNP. People are being let down at every turn.
“The numbers have increased by more than 400% in the last 20 years, and now families spend more than a year in temporary accommodation on average. The situation is unsustainable.
“Leaving children stranded in limbo for so long will have a devastating effect on their wellbeing, attainment and life chances.
“The SNP need to act urgently to fix this dereliction of duty and make sure my the people of Glasgow have the safe, secure housing they need.”
ENDS
Source: https://www.gov.scot/publications/homelessness-scotland-2021-22/documents/