One of the aims of the Scottish Health Equity Research Unit is to produce reactive statistical / research briefings that summarise relevant data releases. Designed to improve the accessibility and visibility of important statistical findings, these briefings provide concise, easy-to-understand round-ups that highlight key insights from recent publications. By demystifying complex statistics, methodologies, and data limitations, the unit aims to make this information more approachable for a wider audience.
This reactive stats briefing covers the latest homelessness statistics in Scotland (2023-24) which reveal an escalating housing crisis, with increases in homelessness applications, temporary accommodation use, and rough sleeping. These trends underline the strong connection between housing instability and health inequalities, as unstable living conditions contribute to poorer physical and mental health.
Authors
David is a Senior Knowledge Exchange Fellow at the Fraser of Allander Institute. Previously, he worked in a range of analytical positions across the public sector, primarily as a statistician.
Katherine Smith
Katherine is a Professor of Public Health Policy at the Strathclyde School of Social Work and Social Policy, and is co-director of Strathclyde's Centre for Health Policy.