Local interventions continue to prevent rough sleeping in North Lanarkshire

Homelessness in North Lanarkshire is on the rise for a second consecutive year, with a 16% increase reported, which surpasses the Scottish average. Despite this concerning trend, local interventions are actively working to prevent rough sleeping in the area. Twelve councils in Scotland have already declared a homelessness emergency due to factors such as a lack of affordable housing and economic pressures, leading to the recognition of a national crisis by the Scottish Government.

The North Lanarkshire Council’s Homes First Team has been collaborating with partners, including the NHS, for over three years to support homeless individuals with complex needs. In the 2023-2024 period, their efforts expanded to help 54 people, all of whom were successfully able to sustain housing. Additionally, the council has established a crisis response service for immediate outreach support, while Turning Point Scotland offers assistance to ensure individuals access necessary services.

Initiatives like the Household Support Fund aided 140 young single people in resolving financial issues such as rent arrears, energy costs, and food expenses. The Keys to the Future programme, funded by Barnardo’s, assisted 24 families with 42 children facing homelessness. Measures taken have seen participants engage in workshops, receive essential items like furniture, gain internet access, and receive emotional support to aid in their recovery.

Although homelessness numbers are increasing, there has been a 15% decrease in the number of children affected in North Lanarkshire, contrasting with a 5% rise across Scotland. The average duration spent in temporary accommodation in North Lanarkshire has also decreased to 131 days, approximately half the Scottish average. To address these challenges, the council plans to explore reducing housing offers to homeless individuals from two options to one, introducing a six-month pilot scheme followed by a report to the housing committee.

In conclusion, despite the concerning rise in homelessness in North Lanarkshire, the collaborative efforts of local interventions and support services have been impactful in preventing rough sleeping and providing essential assistance to those in need. The council’s proactive approach and initiatives aim to address the root causes of homelessness and ensure individuals have the support needed to secure stable housing and rebuild their lives.