NEW recommendations to ensure the commitment to eradicate rough sleeping is met have been set out by the Scottish Government’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Action Group.

The recommendations, which have been welcomed by the Chartered Institute of Housing, have all been accepted in principle by the Scottish Government, and build on the group’s earlier call to tackle rough sleeping over the winter period.

They include moving to a Housing First model for those with most complex needs – where people move straight into a permanent, settled home rather than temporary accommodation.

In December, £328,000 was invested to support additional capacity for night shelters and extra staff to help get more people into accommodation over winter. The Scottish Government will now provide a further £150,000 to continue to provide some services to the summer while the latest recommendations are taken forward.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “The group’s recommendations focus on improving advice and support for those sleeping rough, and ensuring that housing, funding and services are directed at those who need them most.

“They will play a vital role in meeting our commitment to end homelessness.”