Cash boost to reduce homelessness

Extra cash to help prevent people losing their homes has been announced on what has been hailed as a "landmark day" in the fight against homelessness. Anyone who loses their home through no fault of their own is entitled to settled accommodation as part of the 2012 homelessness commitment. Previously, only those classed as being in priority need - often families with children - had that right. But the Homelessness etc. (Scotland) Act, passed by Holyrood in 2003, abolished the priority need test for homelessness. The removal of this will give an estimated 3,000 more people a year the right to settled accommodation. Story continues ADVERTISEMENT As the changes came into force, Nicola Sturgeon also announced £300,000 would be spent over the next two years to help councils with their efforts to prevent homelessness. The Deputy First Minister said: "This is a landmark day in the fight against homelessness. "I know the heartache and trauma of homelessness from working closely with households faced with the prospect of losing the roof over their head. "Meeting our 2012 commitment guarantees that those who lose their home from no fault of their own will be guaranteed settled accommodation. "It is absolutely right to offer this guarantee in a time of crisis for people. It sends the signal that we are there to help, there is hope and that the state will do what it can."

	� Official Line-up for T in the Park
	� Police hunt for missing Cabaret Voltaire boss Martin Gordon
	� WEATHER WARNING SUGGESTS FLOODING COULD HIT SCOTLAND
	� Hey Mario, Wii broke the TV!

Top  Back