Scottish Churches Housing Action has responded to the Scottish Government's housing consultation, Fresh Thinking, New Ideas, with a warning that the much-praised target on homelessness may not be met. Chief Executive Alastair Cameron called on the Housing Minister, Alex Neil MSP, to redouble efforts to keep on track.
The homelessness target, set in 2002, is that by 2012, everyone applying as homeless, except those who had intentionally made themselves so, would be entitled to settled housing. This is one of four housing-related targets that the consultation paper addresses.
"We have said to the Minister for the first time that it looks as though the target may not be met", says Alastair Cameron. "Scotland hasn't been building enough new affordable homes to meet the target, and the current spending cuts mean that councils won't be able to maintain the support arrangements that are vital."
In a letter to the Minister, Churches Housing says the charity remains a wholehearted supporter of the target. If it is not met by 2012, efforts should be redoubled to achieve it subsequently. This requires action at local level being supported by a strong lead from the Scottish Government.
"As a national organisation with a track record on training and developing new volunteering projects, we at Churches Housing can make a contribution", adds Alastair Cameron. "Central and local government and the voluntary sector all have roles to play in reaching this ambitious and historic target."
Download Scottish Churches Housing Action's briefing paper and response here (PDF).
