The stark statistic comes ahead of a major fundraising event at the 20,866-capacity ground in Aberdeen, shining a spotlight on a crisis that charities warn is being met with growing public indifference, The Press and Journal reports.

The Aberdeen CEO Sleepout takes place on 16 April, bringing together business leaders to spend a night outside in aid of local frontline services. Last year’s inaugural event proved a remarkable success, raising £72,000 – the highest amount ever raised by a CEO Sleepout event outside London.

Bianca Robinson, CEO of the charity, did not mince her words about the human cost of the crisis. “Tragically, 13 homeless people lost their lives in Aberdeen last year,” she said, adding that the lack of public outrage reflects how desensitised society has become to poverty.

She also drew attention to the plight of children in the city, noting that hundreds, if not thousands, wake each day uncertain whether they will have a roof over their heads that night.

Funds raised will be distributed amongst Aberdeen Cyrenians, Aberdeen Foyer, and Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust (AFCCT).