Estimated number of homeless deaths more than doubles in North Lanarkshire

The number of homeless deaths in North Lanarkshire has more than doubled, according to new figures. In 2023, an estimated 23 people died while sleeping rough or living in temporary accommodation in the region. This is a significant increase from the previous year, where there were nine actual deaths and 10 estimated deaths. National Records of Scotland suggest the figure could be even higher.

Compared to South Lanarkshire, where the number of deaths remained at 10, with an estimated 12 deaths in 2023, the increase in North Lanarkshire is alarming. The estimated death rate in North Lanarkshire was reported as 88.8 deaths per million population aged 15-74, up from 39.3 the year before.

Across Scotland, an estimated 242 people died while homeless in 2023, a figure similar to that of 244 in 2022. The data also revealed that drug misuse was a significant factor, accounting for 41% of all estimated deaths of homeless individuals last year. The majority of those who died while homeless were male (79%), with 21% being female.

The figures highlight the urgent need to address Scotland’s housing emergency. Shelter Scotland director, Alison Watson, emphasised the severity of the situation, stating that people should not be dying without a safe and permanent place to call home. She called on the government to take radical action to address the chronic shortage of social homes and provide necessary resources for local homelessness services.

The Salvation Army echoed these concerns, advocating for improved data collection to accurately record the causes of deaths among individuals housed in temporary accommodation. Without specific information on death certificates regarding homelessness, it is challenging to identify trends and respond effectively. The organisation urged all local councils in Scotland to analyse the causes of death for those in temporary accommodation or Housing First tenancies.

The increase in homeless deaths, particularly due to factors like drug misuse, underscores the critical need for proactive measures to support vulnerable individuals and address the root causes of homelessness. The collaborative efforts of government agencies, nonprofit organisations, and local communities are essential in combating homelessness and ensuring the well-being of all individuals in society.