‘I’m homeless in Scotland and this is what my life on the streets looks like’

A young man facing homelessness in Scotland has opened up about the harsh reality of life on the streets after being admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. Travis Mitchell, a 25-year-old from Edinburgh, has been living rough following his escape from domestic violence at home. Mitchell, who struggles with ADHD, autism, and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, finds it challenging to secure steady employment due to his disabilities. As the housing crisis persists and temperatures plummet, rough sleepers like Mitchell are left to endure brutal conditions.

In an interview with Edinburgh Live, Mitchell recounted the difficulties he faced over the past week, including threats from other homeless individuals vying for resources and struggling with health issues exacerbated by the cold. Mitchell described a moment where he felt his body going numb while being unable to recall how many nights he had spent in the cold. His condition worsened to the point where he sought help from a passerby, leading to his hospitalisation for pneumonia.

The surge in homelessness across Scotland has led to a sharp increase in the number of individuals seeking refuge on the streets. In Glasgow, reports show a 28% rise in rough sleepers approaching nearly 1,000 people, with over 8,000 individuals residing in temporary accommodation. The trend is mirrored in Edinburgh, where applications for housing support have spiked by 23% compared to the previous year.

Despite the challenges he faces, Mitchell expressed gratitude towards the few kind-hearted individuals who have shown him compassion during his ordeal. He emphasised the importance of support and understanding in the community, calling for more empathy towards those experiencing homelessness. Mitchell’s resilience and optimism shine through as he strives to keep moving forward amidst adversity.

As the struggle of homelessness persists in Scotland, Mitchell’s story sheds light on the urgent need for increased support and resources to aid those in vulnerable situations. His journey exemplifies the resilience and courage exhibited by individuals facing homelessness, advocating for a more compassionate and inclusive society for all.