Scottish waiting lists include 70,000 children, says charity

An estimated 70,000 children in Scotland are on social housing waiting lists, new analysis indicates.

Housing and homelessness charity Shelter Scotland is calling for at least 37,100 social homes to be built.

The charity’s analysis of the Scottish Housing Survey indicates there are around 40,000 households with children on waiting lists for social housing, and around 70,000 children within those households.

In a YouGov survey commissioned by the charity, knowledge of the number of school children on social housing waiting lists increased support for building more of these types of homes.

The poll found more than half (55%) of respondents believe the next Scottish government should build more social homes than the current government will have built by the end of this parliamentary term.

Just under two thirds (63%) believe Scottish political parties should prioritise building social homes.

Shelter Scotland director Alison Watson said: “It’s not right that tens of thousands of children don’t have the security of a safe, affordable home.

“That’s why thousands of our campaigners will be calling on candidates in the 2021 election to put social housebuilding at the heart of Scotland’s recovery plan. Let’s build Scotland’s future.”

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “Ensuring everyone has access to a safe, warm and affordable place to call home is at the heart of our ambition for a fairer Scotland. We are committed to expanding our social housing stock and have transformed access to affordable housing.”