Perth and Kinross has achieved a significant milestone in 2023 as the region recorded zero homeless deaths, according to the latest report published by the National Records of Scotland. This marks a decrease from the previous year when two deaths were reported. In 2021, Perth and Kinross also saw no homeless deaths, while in 2019, there were five recorded deaths.
The statistics from the National Records of Scotland show that Perth and Kinross had no homeless deaths in 2023, a positive trend compared to previous years. The data indicates that efforts to address homelessness and provide support to vulnerable individuals have yielded positive results in the region.
Beth Watson, a senior assistant statistician at NRS, highlighted that the number of homeless deaths in 2023 remained stable compared to the previous year, but there has been an increase since 2017. The report revealed that half of the homeless deaths in 2023 were individuals under the age of 45, with the most common age group for both genders being 35 to 44.
Housing charity Shelter has called for more action to tackle Scotland’s housing crisis following the report. Shelter Scotland Director, Alison Watson, emphasized the need for urgent and radical responses to address the chronic shortage of social homes and improve local homelessness services.
Nationally, 242 people died while homeless in Scotland in 2023, with drug misuse accounting for a significant proportion of these deaths. Men made up 79% of the homeless deaths, while women accounted for 21%. The report highlighted the importance of continued efforts to support individuals experiencing homelessness and provide them with access to safe and permanent housing.
The figures underscore the importance of ongoing initiatives and support services to prevent homelessness and ensure the well-being of vulnerable individuals in society. Perth and Kinross’ achievement of zero homeless deaths in 2023 is a positive step towards addressing homelessness and improving outcomes for those in need of assistance.