This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Revised Code of Guidance on homelessness
31/05/2005
A revised Code of Guidance to assist local authorities,
public bodies and agencies providing services and support
for people who are homeless was published today.
The Code of Guidance on Homelessness gives statutory
guidance which local authorities must consider when
carrying out their duties in line with homelessness policy
for Scotland, ensuring that all homeless people can receive
readily accessible services which meet their needs.
The document has been updated to reflect recent changes
in homelessness legislation and provides practical advice
on how these should be implemented.
Communities Minister Malcolm Chisholm said:
"The Code is a key, valuable resource designed to assist
all those who are implementing the progressive new
legislation. Tackling homelessness is central to the
Scottish Executive's strategy for providing routes out of
poverty and disadvantage. We have put in place
forward-looking, ambitious policies to prevent and
alleviate homelessness, and strengthened legislation to
improve the rights of homeless people.
"Across Scotland, statutory and voluntary organisations
are working together in partnership to deliver joined up
services and support to those experiencing or facing
homelessness. It is important that this revised Code
records and reflects the good practice examples which exist
so that these may be learned from and replicated
elsewhere."
The Code will be updated regularly and revisions will
continue to take account of feedback from local authorities
and agencies and include examples of good practice.
COSLA Housing Spokesperson, Councillor Douglas Reid,
said:
"COSLA welcomes this updated Code of Guidance, which
will help all key stakeholders with a role to play in
tackling homelessness. The Code provides a practical guide
for councils, which helps them match their local priorities
with those of the Scottish Executive and others.
Ultimately, this will help us all join up our efforts to
effectively support the most vulnerable in society."
Robert Aldridge, Director of the Scottish Council for
Single Homeless, representative of the Code of Guidance
Steering Group, welcomed the new Code of Guidance. He
said:
"Not only does the Code give clear practical guidance to
front line staff, it also puts a welcome emphasis on the
need to prevent homelessness where possible, and in finding
long term solutions for those who do become homeless."