Articles by Rachel Amery

Politics

Homeless refugee applications from outside Scotland soar by 250% in Edinburgh

The number of refugees from outside Scotland applying for homelessness assistance in Edinburgh has soared by 250 per cent. In 2022/23, 121 refugees from outside Scotland made a homeless presentation to Edinburgh City Council. However, this figure rose sharply to 439 last year. At the same time, refugees stuck in temporary accommodation in Edinburgh also rose by 236 to 523. This is despite the city declaring a housing emergency two years ago. Scottish Labour MP Joani Reid said: “These figures are further evidence that the SNP Government’s virtue-signalling has worsened Scotland’s housing crisis. First thing Monday to Friday, The Steamie newsletter bring you the best political news and analysis “They have made Glasgow and Edinburgh a magnet for homeless refugees from other parts of the UK without any plan for housing or local services.” An Edinburgh Council source told the Daily Record the hike was caused by people "leaving Home Office asylum accommodation with positive decisions and moving to Edinburgh”. The Scottish Government abolished “priority need” rules in 2012, meaning councils are now required to assist anyone who is homeless regardless of their need. Ms Reid added: “SNP ministers could change the law to address this crisis, but they choose not to do so. The SNP’s £200 million affordable housing cut in 2024 was also a disaster that has had far-reaching consequences for vulnerable people in need of accommodation. “The SNP can’t keep pointing the finger elsewhere. This situation is getting worse and the failure rests with them.” In response, Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “As I have made clear - and as reputable charities like Shelter Scotland have stressed - reversing the suspension of local connection referrals will not impact on homelessness presentations by refugees from any part of the UK as the legislative changes made in 2022 did not change local connection rules for refugee households. “Labour are shamefully suggesting we roll back on the homelessness rights of people in Scotland. Let me be clear - we have no intention of doing so. “Successive UK governments’ mismanagement of the asylum system, including this Labour government, is creating serious pressures for local authorities like Edinburgh. “The UK government must urgently provide more financial assistance to enable local authorities to provide safety and sanctuary for people seeking asylum and ensure their appropriate integration into communities.”