Call for a re-appeal on the homes for Ukraine appeal
Scottish Lib Dems Leader Alex Cole-Hamilton is asking the Scottish Government to make a re-appeal on the homes for Ukraine scheme - as he prepares to welcome a refugee to his home in Edinburgh
The Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats will welcome a Ukrainian refugee to his home in Edinburgh this week.
Alex Cole-Hamilton registered on the 'Homes for Ukraine' scheme back when the initial call for hosts was made.
Since then two thirds of the more than 9,000 Ukrainians that have arrived in Scotland have done so through the platform.
The Politician is now calling for the Scottish Government to make a re-appeal for hosts, as he's worried we will run out of places for them to go.
Mr Cole-Hamilton told Forth News:
"We met for the first time online this week, we're delighted to be welcoming her into our family home in a few days time.
"We decided to because we first of all have space. And we as a family were absolutely horrified by Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine.
"There is a human catastrophe happening across continental Europe and Scotland really needs to play its part and so this was the least we could do to offer up space in our home."
Thousands of refugees arriving in Scotland are to be housed temporarily on cruise ships docked in both Leith and Glasgow.
That's meant to be a short-term solution until more permanent housing can be found for the families, but Cole-Hamilton is worried it's a sign places are running out.
The Lib Dem Leader continued:
"There is also a lot of goodwill out there, but there's a real worry that there just won't be enough spaces or accommodation for them.
"So I want the Scottish Government to do several things. Firstly, to reconnect with people and say we need homes for Ukrainians.
"Secondly, we need to make sure that those people who do come forward are checked as quickly as possible through disclosure and the suitability of their property can't let bureaucracy get in the way.
"And indeed, I want ministers to think whether they can do as we've done and perhaps welcome Ukrainians into their own homes as well"
We've asked the Scottish Government for comment.