Aoife Deery

New data from the charity shows a 56% increase in those seeking advice on rent arrears in Registered Social Landlord properties in the year to May 2024.

Scottish Citizens Advice Bureaus have also seen an increase in demand for advice around local authority rent arrears in the past year, with a 51% increase.

CAS social justice spokesperson Aoife Deery said: “These increases in rent arrears advice are shocking.

“At the same time the Scottish Government have declared a ‘housing emergency’ our data shows more people are struggling with the affordability of housing and more people are falling into housing debt.

“The result of this debt can have a devastating impact on people. We often see people who need help with housing issues also needing help with benefits, utilities, and other types of debt.”

She continued: “The Scottish Government has introduced the Housing Bill this parliament. We welcome the bill and the protections it will bring for tenants. However, we need action on affordable housing.

“If anyone is concerned about money, bills or paying their rent or mortgage they should seek advice from the Citizens Advice network. Our website www.MoneyMap.scot offers people a range of options to boost their incomes or cut their costs, and our online advice pages have a range of information people can trust around their housing rights.

“Our advice is free, confidential and impartial and we don’t judge, we just help.”