Perth & Kinross was already one of the leading local authorities in Scotland in this area of work, and recently released figures for 2021/22 show that we continue to build on this.

The council has taken a ‘Home First’ approach to tackling homelessness since 2017. Home First was introduced with the aim of providing a direct route for homeless people into settled accommodation, reducing the need for temporary accommodation and minimising the duration, impact, stigma, and cost of homelessness.

In 2018, the Scottish Government instructed all local authorities in Scotland to produce a Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP) - with the main aim of moving to a rapid rehousing approach over a five-year period. Our Home First approach has enabled Perth & Kinross Council to deliver a rapid rehousing model well before the target timescale of 2023/24.

The new Scottish Government performance statistics revealed that Perth & Kinross Council:

• Achieved a further 9% reduction in homeless presentations in Perth and Kinross, following a 12% reduction in 2020/21.This is set against a 3% increase in homelessness presentations nationally over the last year.
• Had the shortest length of stay in temporary accommodation in 2021/22 with an average of 60 days. The national average was 207 days.
• Had the lowest number of households in temporary accommodation by population. We had 42 households per 100,000 population. The national average was 305 households.
• Are a leading authority for duration of homelessness, with an average of 64 days. The national average was 256 days.
• Through their work with The Rock Trust charity to support young people experiencing homelessness, assisted almost 100 young people to either keep their accommodation or find them alternative housing.

Housing and social wellbeing convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “These statistics reflect our commitment over the last five years to reduce homelessness in Perth and Kinross, and a determination that anyone facing homelessness will be provided with settled accommodation quickly to help them lead a quality life and reduce the stigma attached to homelessness. I would like to congratulate all of the Housing staff involved for their fantastic efforts, which have made a positive difference to the lives of so many people.

“Our Home First approach has transformed outcomes for people who need homelessness support in Perth and Kinross, as can be seen through these statistics from the Scottish Government. I am delighted that we can say that our Council continues be a national sector-leader in this area.”