Edinburgh's Homeless Crisis: A Rising Death Toll

0:00It's April 22nd. I'm Corey with the story, and this is Edinburgh News today, local news powered by AI. 56 homeless folks died in Edinburgh last year, with 37 of them living in temporary spots provided by the City Council. That's the start number from fresh freedom of information data, showing how the housing crunch is hitting hard. Over the past six years, households stuck in tempo accommodation jumped more than 80% to 6430, no surprise then, that Edinburgh's homeless death rate tops Scotland's outpacing other areas. Shelter Scotland calls it devastating, saying services are meeting legal duties and the most vulnerable pay the price. They want big changes post-election, like massive social house building funded nationwide. The Council's homelessness convener admits the link, but points to ongoing work with partners for extra support, especially for those with health. Issues Pledge 1.6 billion pounds for housing, including 580 million for better temp setups. National records back this up, noting 40 homeless deaths here in 2024, the highest rate

1:04around. A recent street count found 68 rough sleepers, one September night, mostly guys huddled near safe spots like churches as the Council keeps, pushing to prevent evictions and get more government help.