The report by researchers at Heriot-Watt University gives a detailed breakdown of homelessness statistics in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee and a clear roadmap of how to collaborate to end homelessness in Scotland.

The research will help provide a funding framework for investing the funds raised at Sleep in in the Park, currently projected to be £4 million.

In a Facebook post, Social Bite said: “One area the study shows we need to collectively focus on is a strategy called ‘Housing First’.

“Housing First basically means that rather than making homeless people spend years in the ‘homelessness system’, sleeping rough and living in temporary accommodation, and making them almost ‘qualify’ for a permanent home, during which time people become increasing isolated and marginalised - we should turn that system on its head.

“Housing First means giving homeless people a mainstream tenancy right at the start of that process and funding a comprehensive support resource for these vulnerable people when they are in their home. With a place to call home and a stable base, coupled with strong support, it is proven that homeless people can integrate into society and thrive like anyone else. This is also much more cost effective for society in the long run.”