"Weaponised' homelessness system being used to create division

Transform Community Development is a co-signatory to a letter initiated by Shelter Scotland, addressed to representatives of both the UK and Scottish Governments. The letter has also been copied to all 32 local authority leaders and Councillor Maureen Chalmers of COSLA.

The letter expresses deep concern from across the sector regarding the tone and language used by some politicians when discussing refugees and homelessness. It highlights how such rhetoric can fuel disinformation and hatred. Alarmingly, the homelessness system is being politicised and weaponised by some for political gain, placing some of the most vulnerable people in our society at even greater risk. The Herald has reported exclusively on the letter and the article can be found here

Alison Watson, Director of Shelter Scotland, said: "Scotland's homelessness services are in crisis, and we cannot allow misinformation to drive policy backwards. Rolling back rights won't solve homelessness; it will only put more people on the streets.

“The current system means refugees are made homeless within weeks of receiving status. We need the UK Government to give people adequate time to secure accommodation, the Scottish Government to direct funding to areas facing the greatest pressure and for all political leaders to challenge harmful myths that wrongly conflates asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants.

These are legal distinctions that matter. That's why over 30 organisations across housing, refugee rights and equality sectors are united in calling for leadership and constructive solutions, not toxic rhetoric that plays into the hands of those spreading hate."

You can also download the letter in PDF Format Here - Letter to Scottish & UK Government | Refugee Homelessness

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