The SNP has set out “bold” plans to end children living in unsuitable accommodation, Renfrewshire North and West MSP Natalie Don-Innes has said, following the launch of the Scottish Government’s Housing Emergency Action Plan this week.

At the heart of the plan is a commitment that no child should be forced to grow up in unsuitable housing. The first major step is doubling the Scottish Government’s acquisitions fund to £80 million this year, taking total targeted investment to £120 million.

This will enable the purchase of at least 1,200 homes over the next 18 months, helping between 600 and 800 children to move quickly out of temporary accommodation and into safe, permanent tenancies.

Further measures include:

£2 million in discretionary housing payments to help households move on from temporary housing into settled homes.
Pilots to support a new system of long-term rent controls.
Implementation of Awaab’s Law from March 2026, ensuring stronger protections against unsafe and unsuitable housing conditions.

Commenting, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don-Innes, said:

“A safe, secure, and warm home is the foundation of a dignified life, yet too many children in Renfrewshire are still growing up in unsuitable housing.

“Brexit and Westminster’s economic mismanagement have pushed families into hardship, but the SNP is determined to change that.

“This bold Housing Action Plan, as part of John Swinney’s mission to eradicate child poverty, will deliver real change for families in Renfrewshire and across Scotland.

“This SNP Government is delivering progress where it matters - improving lives today and building a fairer, more secure future with independence.”

https://www.gov.scot/news/housing-emergency-action-plan-published/