Homelessness prevention through a post-pandemic lens

About this event

The Scottish Government has an ambition to end homelessness in Scotland, underpinned by the Ending Homelessness Together Action Plan first published in 2018, and a £50 million Ending Homelessness Together fund. The updated plan published in 2020 reinforced the focus on preventing homelessness as far as possible. So, five years on, how far are we on the journey to ending homelessness and what still needs to be done?

This event, in partnership with the Association of Local Authority Chief Housing Officers (ALACHO), will explore the progress that has been made in transforming homelessness services, the need for effective partnership working, and what good prevention looks like in practice.

Why attend?

You will also have an opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns about the proposals. Your feedback will be used to inform CIH Scotland and ALACHO responses to the upcoming Housing Bill, making sure your experience and expertise helps to shape the legislation.

Programme

14:00 – 14: 05

Welcome and introductions

Chair: Maggie Brunjes, Homeless Network Scotland

14:05– 14:15

A housing led approach to preventing homelessness

Research into Rapid Rehousing Transition Plans carried out by CIH Scotland in partnership with fife Council has highlighted the progress being made by local authorities in preventing homelessness and transforming homelessness services.

However, the latest homelessness statistics show the impact of challenges such as the cost of living crisis and lack of affordable housing supply. Is the sector geared up for homelessness prevention?

Speaker: Gavin Smith, Fife Council and Chair of CIH Scotland

14:15 – 14:35

Proposals for a new Homelessness Prevention Duty

The Housing Bill will set out the framework for a new Homelessness Prevention Duty. This session will give an overview of what is expected to be included in the Bill and how local authorities can start to take proactive steps towards preventing homelessness with key partners.

Speakers: Neil Cowan, Crisis and Graeme Gardiner, Aberdeen City Council

14:35 – 14:50

Homelessness prevention in practice

This session will explore some practical examples of local authorities working to prevent homelessness.

You will hear about Dundee City Council’s domestic abuse policy and Glasgow City Council’s Health and Social Care Partnership work to prevent homelessness.

Speakers: Michelle Harrow, Dundee City Council and Pat Togher, Glasgow City Council Health and Social Care Partnership

14:50 - 15:25

Key asks for Government - Discussion

This session is your chance to share your thoughts on the new Homelessness Prevention Duty. Do you have any concerns about the proposals, and what is needed to ensure that the duties are implemented effectively?

Your comments will form part of our feedback to the Scottish Government on the Housing Bill expected to be introduced after the summer recess.