The majority of young Scots are losing hope of getting the right home.

New research for Shelter Scotland has revealed that 61% of Scotland’s 18 to 34-year-olds believe that in four years’ time it will be tougher for them to access the right type of housing.

The TNS BMRB survey on behalf of Shelter Scotland also found that in four years’ time 22% expect to be living in social housing, 19% in the private rented sector and 6% living with their parents - despite 72% saying they would ideally like to own their home by this time.

Shelter Scotland says the findings create a bleak snapshot of housing in the future as seen through the eyes of young Scots and that they send a warning to Scotland’s politicians about lack of ambition in meeting their housing needs.

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The housing charity added that, at a time of runaway youth unemployment, the clear message is young people in Scotland are losing hope of being able to realise even the most basic of needs – a decent, affordable rented home from where they can plan their future.

Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity said: “Young people in Scotland have been the big losers of a broken housing system which has failed to provide for people’s real housing needs.

“But if Scotland is to retain and attract the young people that are its future, then a much more balanced housing system is needed – one that views renting as a key step in the housing journey.”

Graeme Brown added: “For most people, the first step on the housing ladder is not to buy, but to live in private rented or social housing. This provides a stable beginning in an environment where people can plan and save for their future.

“Bearing in mind that the private rented sector currently only provides for around 10% of households and demand for social housing outstrips supply, the challenge for the new Scottish Government is how best to increase choice at the start of the housing journey.

“The lesson of the last few years must be that there is no short cut. Only investment in affordable homes to rent - either in the social or private sectors – can provide the safety net that families and individuals need to take their first steps towards sustainable, affordable, good-quality housing.”

(GK)