This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Tackling homelessness in D&G
19/01/2004
A new project has been launched to help break the cycle
of homelessness for single people in Dumfries and
Galloway.
Shelter Scotland's Single Homeless Persons Support
Service has been set up to tackle the issues faced by
single homeless people. Single people make up two thirds
of homelessness applications in Scotland and are most
likely to face homelessness more than once*.
The two-year pilot, supported by Dumfries and Galloway
Council, will provide practical and emotional support
across the region. Shelter hopes the pilot's findings will
encourage other councils across Scotland to fund similar
projects.
Mark Griffiths, Manager of Shelter Scotland's Single
Homeless Persons Support Service said:
"It takes more than giving someone a roof over their
head to tackle homelessness. Homelessness affects how
people get on with family and friends, their health, living
costs, how easy it is to get a job and their
self-esteem.
"The project aims to provide tailored support for
homeless people in their own community. It will give them
the confidence and skills to break away from facing
homelessness again."
Deputy Communities Minister Mary Mulligan said:
"New legislation in 2001 gave homeless people increased
rights so that all applicants, including single people,
have a right to temporary accommodation, advice and
assistance.
"Homelessness is a very complex issue and effective
support is vital to help people make the transition from
temporary to permanent tenancies and to stop the cycle of
repeat homelessness. That's why we're working with Shelter
and local authorities to make sure the correct services are
in place to make real positive improvements to people's
quality of life."
The project is appealing for volunteers to play a vital
role within the project. Volunteers are currently involved
in providing practical support to help people set up home,
befriending and counselling. For more information please
contact the project on 01387 256 526.
*Every year over 3,000 households face homelessness more
than once in Scotland and reapply as homeless to their
local authority. Of these 80% were made by single
people.