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Homelessness
Shelter Scotland exists to defend the right to a safe home and fight the devastating impact the housing emergency has on people and society.
Shelter Scotland’s website has detailed information to help anyone experiencing or at risk of homelessness. They also have an online chat facility and a free helpline: 0808 800 4444.
What counts as homelessness?
When people think of the word “homeless” they often picture people living on the street. However, you are considered homeless if you are sleeping on a friend’s sofa, staying in a hostel or staying somewhere unsafe.
Your rights
Adequate housing is a human right.
The Homelessness etc. (Scotland) Act 2003 places a duty on every Council in Scotland to provide settled accommodation for all unintentionally homeless people in Scotland.
They must also provide temporary accommodation whilst a homelessness application is assessed.
Contact details for all Scottish Councils
If you find yourself homeless, you must tell the Council that you’re “making a homeless application”.
Please see our page on your Housing Rights for information on where to access specific support if you feel your rights are being denied.
What if the Council won’t help me?
Shelter Scotland’s website provides support on what to do if your local Council will not help you.
They will also provide advice and support via their helpline: 0808 800 4444.
Signposting
The following organisations offer support on this topic.
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