Scottish Government

PRIORITIES FOR 2005

1. Our main priorities for 2005 are reflected in the work that will be undertaken by the three subgroups which we have established to focus on the major issues to be addressed this year. The detailed workplans for these groups are set out in Appendix C. All three groups will report back to the Monitoring Group - a combined workplan is at Appendix E. The main priorities are:

• Advising Ministers on the content of the statement to be made by the end of this year on the abolition of priority need by 2012, taking account of relevant data relating to the supply and quality of accommodation and the availability of support.
• Advising Ministers on the implementation of sections 4-6 of the Homelessness etc Scotland Act, taking account of relevant research and ensuring that local authorities and others receive appropriate support.
• Continuing to promote and support action which makes culture change a reality; through raising awareness of homelessness, the Homelessness Task Force recommendations, and the true potential of homeless people; and through the identification and dissemination of good practice.

1. Our recent review of progress being made in implementing the Homelessness Task Force's recommendations has highlighted the following particular issues which we will take forward over the next year:

• • There is a need to consider progress against the suite of recommendations relating to DWP/Jobcentre Plus activity in the context of wider work being undertaken by these agencies, in order that the recommendations are taken forward in the most appropriate manner. For example, to consider the recommendation made as a result of the evaluation of housing advice services in Scottish prisons, to increase the length of time housing benefit is payable.
• There are a number of linked issues relating to people leaving institutional settings which should be the focus of further consideration.
• There is a need to consider action on implementing recommendation 22 regarding Audit Scotland's rent arrears SPI in light of Communities Scotland's thematic study on evictions.
• There is a need to develop an evidence base on illegal eviction in order to progress recommendation 23.

1. We will also:

• continue to monitor local authorities' implementation of their legislative duties towards homeless people, including overseeing the continuous improvement of homelessness and housing strategies and development of local outcome agreements;

• consider legislative proposals in relation to regulations under section 7 of the Homelessness etc (Scotland) Act 2003 and the implementation of section 11 of that Act;
• consider the evaluation of the Rough Sleepers Initiative and provide advice on future monitoring;
• monitor the implementation of the Health and Homelessness Standards; and
• monitor the impact of the new Homeless Persons Unsuitable Accommodation (Scotland) Order;
• continue to work to ensure that homeless people are empowered and involved in the development and delivery of services.