National campaign launched to end homelessness in Scotland by 2040

Targets with The Road to Ending Homelessness align with the Scottish Government’s long-term ambition to ensure there are enough homes for everyone in Scotland by 2040.

The charity is calling for sustained investment, clear accountability and cross-party commitment that lasts beyond a single election cycle.

Maeve McGoldrick, head of policy and communications at Crisis Scotland, said: “Ending homelessness in Scotland by 2040 is achievable, but only through decisive, collective action. Delivering enough of the right homes, in the right places, is fundamental to meeting the needs of those at greatest risk.

“Early intervention must be the standard, not the exception. We need robust systems that identify risk sooner, provide timely support, and focus relentlessly on prevention. This requires guaranteed, long-term, multi-year funding for the public services that underpin effective homelessness prevention and response.

“The Road to Ending Homelessness sets out a clear, practical framework for reaching a point where homelessness is preventable and where, if it does occur, it is rare, brief, and non-recurring.”

Homelessness is the most extreme form of poverty, affecting thousands of Scots. A quarter of the population has either experienced it themselves or knows someone close to them who has.

Every day, rising living costs, a shortage of affordable homes, and gaps in support push more families and individuals into homelessness, even within one of the world’s most progressive housing systems.

Families are stuck in overcrowded or unsuitable homes, or in poor-quality temporary accommodation lacking basic facilities. Many are forced to sleep on friends’ sofas, unsure when they might be asked to leave. An increasing number face the trauma and indignity of sleeping on the streets.

Crisis Scotland emphasised that this does not have to be the reality. While progress has been made in recent years, long-term political leadership is now essential.

Maeve McGoldrick added: “We call on everyone in Scotland, including all political parties, to commit to this national priority. A Scotland where everyone has a safe, secure home is within reach but only if we act with urgency, sustain momentum, and turn ambition into concrete, measurable progress.”