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New homelessness prevention guidance has been issued to local authorities today as part of the Scottish Government's strategy to meet the 2012 homelessness target.

At the same time, the housing charity Shelter has been given additional funding of £96,000 to increase the capacity of its free Helpline - 0800 800 444 - to help meet the demand from those people with mortgage and debt worries. The funding will allow about 40 per cent of additional calls to be handled.

The new guidance, developed in partnership with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), recognises:

• The prevention of homelessness does not happen in isolation from other issues and therefore a systemic approach is needed
• Homelessness prevention is a corporate responsibility and must be embraced by all parts of the local authority
• The need to encourage pro-active and early intervention, based on a well understood knowledge of the local triggers of homelessness

Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil said:

"As the financial situation worsens for increasing numbers of families across Scotland, it is imperative that those suffering the financial fallout have access to the best advice.

"It is crucial we maintain and develop specialist advice and support as more people call Shelter's Helpline in Scotland.

"Prevention has a central role in tackling homelessness and it is essential for achieving the 2012 target.

"That's why, following discussion with COSLA and local authority colleagues and cross-sector partners, we have developed additional homelessness prevention guidance.

This guidance builds on the broader principles of early intervention and has been developed by a local authority homelessness practitioner."

Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland, the Housing and Homelessness charity, said:

"We have seen a massive rise in demand for advice in the wake of the recession as people struggle with debt problems, mortgage and rent arrears and at worst eviction and repossession.

"This money will allow Shelter Scotland to help about 40 per cent more people calling our Scottish Helpline and mean we can stave off the tragedy of homelessness when possible.

"Early advice is the key to trying to keep the roof over your head."

NOTES FOR NEWS EDITORS

1. In June 2008 the Scottish Government and COSLA jointly agreed four key priorities for achieving the 2012 target to abolish the priority need distinction including preventing homelessness where possible.

2. The Prevention of Homelessness Guidance by the Scottish Government is available at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/06/08140713

3. The Shelter Helpline was awarded 40,000 pounds in November 2008 to increase the help available for homeowners and other people struggling with the impact of the credit crunch.

4. From April 1, 2009 Shelter Scotland has been able to employ two additional helpline advisers as a result of Scottish Government funding. Shelter Scotland estimates this will enable 2,400 more callers to be given advice through the helpline in the year ahead.

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