Ending all forms of homelessness in Scotland by 2040 is ‘achievable', says charity
The charity say ending homelessness by 2040 is achievable only through decisive, collective action.
A Scottish charity is urging political parties and policymakers to commit to ending homelessness by 2040.
Homelessness charity Crisis Scotland launched The Road to Ending Homelessness at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday.
It is a national campaign calling on all political parties in Scotland to commit to ending all forms of homelessness in Scotland by 2040.
The target aligns with the Scottish Government’s long-term ambition to ensure there are enough homes for everyone in Scotland by 2040.
The charity say they are calling for sustained investment, clear accountability and cross-party commitment that lasts beyond a single election cycle.
Maeve McGoldrick, head of policy and communications at Crisis Scotland said: “Ending homelessness in Scotland by 2040 is achievable, but only through decisive, collective action.
“Delivering enough of the right homes, in the right places, is fundamental to meeting the needs of those at greatest risk.
“Early intervention must be the standard, not the exception. We need robust systems that identify risk sooner, provide timely support, and focus relentlessly on prevention.
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“This requires guaranteed, long-term, multi-year funding for the public services that underpin effective homelessness prevention and response.”
She added that The Road to Ending Homelessness sets out a ‘clear’ and ‘practical’ framework for reaching a point where homelessness is preventable.
Ms McGoldrick added: “We call on everyone in Scotland, including all political parties, to commit to this national priority.
“A Scotland where everyone has a safe, secure home is within reach but only if we act with urgency, sustain momentum, and turn ambition into concrete, measurable progress.”
The charity have said a quarter of the population have either experienced homelessness themselves or know someone close to them who has.
They added that every day, rising living costs, a shortage of affordable homes, and gaps in support push more families and individuals into homelessness. Families are stuck in overcrowded or unsuitable homes, or in poor-quality temporary accommodation lacking basic facilities.
Many are forced to sleep on friends’ sofas, unsure when they might be asked to leave while an increasing number face the trauma of sleeping on the streets.
Crisis Scotland emphasises that this does not have to be the reality and are calling on long-term political leadership to work to end homelessness in the country.
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