THE number of people with mental health problems assessed as homeless or at risk of it in Scotland has almost doubled since 2013-14, new research reveals today. 

Analysis by Scottish Labour shows that measures introduced during the pandemic to prevent homelessness had a limited impact on the number of people with mental health problems who were considered homeless. 

Figures in the Scottish government’s 2020-21 report, Homelessness in Scotland, show that while the total number of households which included someone assessed as homeless or at risk have fallen by 8 per cent since 2013-14, the figure for those with mental health problems rose by 90 per cent. 

The figures also show mental health is now one of the biggest causes of homelessness, contributing to almost a quarter of cases.  

Scottish Labour’s housing spokesperson Mark Griffin called the figures shameful. He added: “Some of the most vulnerable people in Scotland are being systematically failed by inadequate mental health support, and here we see the most extreme consequences of that. 

“Understanding and improving mental health must be embedded into every part of government, including housing. 

“With the evictions ban being effectively scrapped, it is more important than ever that the Scottish government has a plan to prevent homelessness and get people the support they need.”

The calls come as a new study found that pupils with poor mental health in England are three times more likely not to pass five GCSEs. 

The research, published in the BMJ Open journal, suggests poor mental health and lower grades at GCSE were more common for disadvantaged pupils, but mental health affected grades regardless of their background.

Researchers said boosting mental health can narrow the attainment gap by improving the performance of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Dr Neil Smith, who led the study, said young people are facing a double hit to their educational prospects.

He said: “The pandemic has adversely affected many young peoples’ mental health, and it’s likely those whose mental health was affected the most by the pandemic will face greater difficulties in making up for learning time that’s been lost.”

A government spokesperson said ministers are prioritising support for children’s mental health and wellbeing alongside academic recovery, with flexible funding allowed to be spent on mental health alongside specific mental health teams for schools and colleges. 

A Scottish government spokeswoman told the Star they are absolutely committed to ending homelessness – including addresses underlying issues. Significant funding has been available for mental health services, she added.