DRUG deaths have risen by 12 per cent among homeless people in Scotland, new figures show.

National Records of Scotland (NRS) estimated 100 such deaths in 2023, up from 89 the previous year.

Drug misuse accounted for 41 per cent of last year’s total, with the rise following a similar pattern across Britain.

Half of the deaths were of people aged below 45 and 79 per cent were men.

Glasgow City Council and the City of Edinburgh Council areas had among the highest per capita rates.

Labour housing spokesman Mark Griffin said: “These deaths are a travesty for our country and a damning symbol of government failure.

“As we head into winter, it is more urgent than ever that the SNP government takes action to tackle Scotland’s housing emergency and get every Scot a safe, secure home.”

Housing Minister Paul McLennan said: “Every premature and preventable death is a tragedy and I send my deepest condolences to those affected by the loss of friends or family who were homeless.

“Scotland already has the strongest rights in the UK for people experiencing homelessness, but we are committed to ensuring that no-one need become homeless in the first place.

“That is why we are investing in the £100 million multi-year ending homelessness together fund to prevent homelessness, end rough sleeping and reduce temporary accommodation use.”

The Scottish government’s Housing (Scotland) Bill is currently being considered by Holyrood.

Mr McLennan said it would “place a stronger emphasis on homelessness prevention based on better co-ordination across services and providing support earlier.

“This will help people avoid the crisis of homelessness and the longer-term harms associated with it.”