How is the SNP tackling homelessness?

Scotland invests more per person than any other UK nation in measures to tackle homelessness and help people remain in their homes.

In 2026-27, the Scottish Government will provide £106 million in Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs), to offset Westminster’s cruel bedroom tax and benefit cap.

Alongside this, the Scottish Government will grant significant homelessness funding directly to councils as part of our almost £16 billion Local Government Finance Settlement.

Additionally, the SNP in government passed its ambitious Housing (Scotland) Bill, an essential and transformative piece of legislation that will advance tenants’ rights, introduce long-term rent controls, and tackle homelessness through potentially world-leading ‘ask and act’ duties.

There is no denying that Scottish councils face serious housing pressures – which is why the SNP in government is building on its record to deliver more homes and tackle the causes of homelessness.

The Scottish Government is investing £100 million to transform the homelessness system and implement the Ending Homelessness Together action plan.

More people with high support needs have been helped into settled housing. Councils have provided over 1,800 Housing First tenancies, and are transitioning to a culture of Rapid Rehousing by default.

People experiencing homelessness in Scotland now have the ability to settle and access support wherever they choose under legislation that removes the local connection test.

And since 2010, the Scottish Government’s £3.7 million investment in the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership with Shelter Scotland has helped to bring back into use almost 11,000 homes.

As the Scottish Government the SNP also launched a £4 million fund for pilot projects to help people to stay in their homes.