Quarter Of Scots Fear Housing Debt

One in four Scots fears they may not be able to meet their rent or mortgage payments at some point this year, according to Shelter Scotland.

Separate research for the housing and homelessness charity found that across the UK, almost six in 10 (59%) rent or mortgage payers are already struggling to keep up with housing costs.

More than a quarter (26%) of the 4,150 British adults surveyed in November said they would feel too ashamed to ask for help if struggling with housing payments.

The separate survey of 1,038 adults carried out in Scotland in December found that one in four people responsible for paying rent or mortgage was worried they may not be able to do so at some time this year.

The charity urged people to ask for help and advice before things spiral out of control.

Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, said: Every day we hear from people who are feeling overwhelmed by mounting rent or mortgage bills, as the increasing pressure of sky-high housing costs continues to take its toll.

We understand it is all too easy to bury your head in the sand hoping the problem will go away. But if you're in this situation, it's so important to remember you're not alone and that help is at hand.

Advice from Shelter Scotland is only a click or a phone call away - so get advice early to prevent things from spiralling out of control.''

Shelter Scotland added that over the festive period, it helped hundreds of families and individuals who were struggling to meet their housing costs and were at risk of losing their homes.