A research project involving two ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ academics has published a report into children's experiences in temporary accommodation.
In Their Own Words: Children's Experiences of Temporary Accommodation has been produced by principal investigator Professor Nadzeya Svirydzenka and post-doctoral Dr Joseph Williams, from ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ, along with co-lead Professor Monica Lakhanpaul, of University College London.
This research project explores the impact of temporary accommodation (TA) on children in Scotland, addressing the lack of qualitative evidence on how TA affects children's wellbeing, relationships, education, and life opportunities.
With more than 10,000 children living in TA as of September 2024, the study emphasises the need to understand children’s experiences and challenges in these environments.
It investigates how systemic issues, such as inadequate housing and lack of coordination between sectors like housing and education, result in detrimental effects on children’s lives.
The research involves interviews with children (ages 5-18) and parents of younger children, capturing their experiences through creative methods like drawing and storytelling.
Key findings highlight the negative impact of TA on children's safety, health, and education.
Issues like overcrowding, poor living conditions, and frequent relocations affect children’s mental health, academic performance, and social relationships.
Recommendations include increasing the supply of permanent homes, improving the quality of TA, and prioritizing children's rights in accommodation decisions.
The study advocates for trauma-informed, child-centred approaches and stresses the importance of coordinated support services for families in TA, with a focus on ensuring stability, health, and educational continuity for children. It calls for policy changes to address the structural causes of child homelessness and improve living conditions.
A published report from the Shelter Scotland project In their own words exploring children’s experiences of Temporary Accommodation in Scotland can be found here:
And project video here::