Scotland is set for a ‘homelessness crisis of alarming proportions’ if current trends persist, new research has found.
A study by law firm Shakespeare Martineau has forecasted that the devolved nation will see a 90% rise in homelessness applications, to more than 4,100 annually, by 2040.
By that year, at least 7,000 households could be forced into temporary accommodation – an 89% surge.
Edinburgh is anticipated to have the largest share of households in temporary accommodation, comprising two-thirds (66%) of the nationwide total.
The head of Shakespeare Martineau in Scotland, Grant Docherty, said: ‘These figures show that it is crucial the public sector and housing associations work together to provide stable, accessible and affordable accommodation.
‘The Government also needs to ensure support services for vulnerable groups are properly funded.
‘The cost of doing nothing will be catastrophic – not just for the individuals affected but for society as a whole.’
