Number of children in temporary accommodation reaches record level in Scotland

Scottish Government figures show 10,480 children were in temporary accommodation on 30 September 2025, a record high. Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan has sought an urgent meeting with the UK immigration minister and Glasgow City Council.

New Scottish Government figures show the number of children living in temporary accommodation reached a record level on 30 September 2025. The statistics recorded 18,092 households in temporary accommodation, including 10,480 children, the highest totals since 2002. Some measures of homelessness applications and assessments fell slightly over the period April to September 2025, while open cases rose. Campaigners, political figures and housing bodies have responded with concern about the trends. Key facts: - On 30 September 2025 there were 18,092 households in temporary accommodation, including 10,480 children, the highest totals since 2002. - Some homelessness measures fell slightly between April and September 2025, while the number of open cases rose to 33,006 as of 30 September 2025. - Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan said services are under "severe pressure" linked to asylum system issues and has sought an urgent meeting with the UK immigration minister and Glasgow City Council. Summary: The figures show a record number of children in temporary accommodation alongside a mixed picture in other homelessness measures. Officials say services are under pressure and a meeting has been requested; further steps and outcomes are undetermined at this time.