NEW figures show that Dumfries and Galloway has the second highest growing percentage of homelessness applications in Scotland.
The report which outlines the extent of homelessness in Scotland stated that after Edinburgh “the next largest numerical increase for homelessness applications was in Dumfries and Galloway, with this figure now higher than pre-pandemic (660 in 2022 compared to 426 in 2019).”
The report notes that one reason for the increase in homelessness applications in the region is due to the increasing number of of evictions from the private rented sector, with Dumfries and Galloway noting an increase in private landlords serving notices with a view to selling their properties.
In response to the new figures, South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has demanded action from the Scottish Government. He said: “These stark figures must be a wake-up call for the Scottish Government who have buried their heads in the sand for too long.
“Too many people in our area are in crisis and local services are struggling to support them. Even one household without somewhere to live is one too many. The second largest rise in homelessness applications in Scotland was seen in Dumfries and Galloway, which is also a concern.
“More and more Scots are facing homelessness – this is a national emergency. We need a real plan to make sure every person in Scotland has the safe, secure home they deserve.”
