Although we’re only in the early days of June, some politicians are already raising concerns about what lies ahead for vulnerable renters during the colder months. There is a renewed push from some parties for the introduction of a winter eviction ban, aiming to protect tenants from being forced out of their homes during harsh weather conditions.
Maggie Chapman, a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) from the Green Party, has been vocal on this issue. She recently put forward a proposal to include a winter eviction ban in the Housing (Scotland) Bill, which is currently being considered by the Scottish Parliament.
The amendment proposed by Chapman sought to prevent landlords from carrying out evictions between the months of November and March. The goal was to provide additional protection to tenants who may otherwise find themselves homeless during the most difficult time of the year.
Unfortunately, her bid was not successful. The suggested changes were not included in the latest version of the Housing Bill. This has sparked debate and disappointment among tenant support groups and housing campaigners.
Chapman criticised the decision, calling it “shameful” that the Scottish Government had voted against the winter eviction protections. She warned that although summer is approaching and the weather is improving, the risk of homelessness remains a very real and looming threat for many people.
She stressed that it’s easy to forget about winter during the warmer months, but for those already facing housing insecurity, the fear of not having shelter when temperatures drop is ever-present and deeply worrying.
The Green MSP expressed concern that every winter, far too many individuals and families are evicted from their homes. In many cases, she claimed, the reasons given by landlords for ending tenancies are not always justified or fair.
Chapman also pointed to the role landlords play in this situation. She argued that some fail to take their responsibilities seriously and may choose to prioritise profit over the wellbeing of their tenants, even during the most vulnerable times of the year.
The issue is compounded by the broader economic climate. Although inflation may have eased slightly, many renters are still grappling with high living costs, including rent, energy bills, and other essential expenses.
She highlighted that wages in many sectors have not kept up with rising costs, leaving households struggling to make ends meet. This is particularly challenging for low-income families who are already living on tight budgets.
According to Chapman, the cost of living crisis has not gone away. It continues to affect thousands across Scotland and the wider UK, making strong protections for renters more important than ever before.
She argued that the situation now is just as serious as it was during the peak of the inflation crisis, and yet political will to support renters appears to be fading.
Chapman also reminded the public that in 2022, when the Scottish Greens were part of the government, a winter eviction ban was introduced for private landlords. She believes this previous action set a precedent that should now be followed up with permanent legislation.
She warned that without strong legal protections in place, vulnerable renters will continue to fall through the cracks. Winter eviction bans, she argued, are a practical and compassionate way to prevent homelessness and protect public health during the coldest months.
In closing, she accused the current Scottish Government of siding with landlords rather than standing up for renters. She urged policymakers to reconsider their stance and take action before the next winter season puts more people at risk.
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