A Lanarkshire MSP is demanding government action on homelessness after shocking new statistics show a five per cent rise in homeless people across South Lanarkshire.
Monica Lennon says the new findings must be a "wake up call" after the steep rise from the previous year.
The new statistics show an increase in homelessness across Scotland following the financial hardships of the pandemic, as people struggle to cope with the current cost of living.
The Central Scotland MSP warned that this could be the first signs of a surge in homelessness following the pandemic, and is urging the SNP to act urgently.
Ms Lennon told Lanarkshire Live : “These concerning figures must be a wake-up call for the SNP, who have buried their heads in the sand for too long.
“Here in South Lanarkshire homelessness is on the rise, leaving vulnerable people in crisis and local services struggling.
“There is a real risk that this is just the beginning of a homelessness epidemic in South Lanarkshire, with the worst yet to come.
“There has been a shameful failure in leadership from the SNP, who scrapped protections for tenants, axed support far too early and are imposing swingeing cuts on South Lanarkshire Council.
“We cannot afford to waste any more time – the SNP must act urgently to support tenants and homeowners across South Lanarkshire at risk of homelessness, and help Councils provide the quality, permanent housing people need.”
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