An unannounced inspection of the service was carried out by the watchdog on January 23 and 24 as inspectors focused on two themes - Quality of Care and Support and Quality of Staffing and Leadership.

As part of their inspection they met with service users, various staff and partners. They also reviewed case files, supervision notes, training records, policies and procedures and went out on visits with some officers.

On Quality of Care and Support, the inspectors gave the highest rating possible, 6 – Excellent, and said:

Quality of Staffing and Leadership also gained an Excellent grading and inspectors said:

The Homeless Housing Support Service recorded an Excellent grading the last time it was inspected in 2016.

Housing and communities convener, Councillor Peter Barrett, said: “The inspectors have told us that we are a ‘sector leading’ local authority in the services we provide for homeless people and people who are at threat of becoming homeless.

“The findings of the inspection report are fantastic for the service, its staff and our service users. I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all members of staff for their continued hard work, commitment and dedication to make the service as good as it can be.

“Without the support and input of our staff, and the input of our service users, it would be extremely difficult for us to continue to receive such high marks and excellent feedback from the Care Inspectorate.”