MSP highlights the link between homelessness and short-term lets in the Highlands and Islands

Emma Roddick MSP has today voiced her concerns over high levels of homelessness in the Highlands and Islands, particularly Skye, where young people are most likely to experience homelessness in the Highland Council area.

Speaking in the Scottish Parliament debate on Wednesday, the SNP MSP opened up about her own experience of homelessness describing it as a ‘trauma’. Roddick argued that the high level of short-term rental properties within her region have increased rates of homelessness, saying:

“The proliferation of short-term lets in fragile communities is forcing young people in my region into homelessness or out of the region”

“We need a rounded approach to tackling homelessness.  With the New Deal for Tenants, Duties to Prevent Homelessness, and an ambitious house-building programme, we are getting there. I hope to see stronger action on second and holiday homes alongside this in future.”