In the letter, director of regulation Ian Brennan said the COVID-19 monthly data returns highlight the ongoing pressures on homelessness services coming in to the winter period. The Regulator added that it is aware that many local authorities continue to face challenges in delivering essential services due to the impact of the pandemic.

Councils are encouraged to contact their lead regulator as soon as possible regarding potential difficulties in maintaining access to homelessness services during the festive break and winter period.

The letter reads:

Homelessness Services: Winter arrangements

Dear Colleague,

I hope that you and your staff teams are managing to stay safe and well.

This year local authorities have faced unprecedented challenges in delivering services to people who are threatened with, or are experiencing, homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We appreciate the work local authorities and their partners have delivered to ensure that many vulnerable people were able to access support and accommodation during this time.

The SHR COVID-19 monthly data returns highlight the ongoing pressures on homelessness services coming in to the winter period and we are aware that many local authorities continue to face challenges in delivering essential services due to the impact of the pandemic.

I am writing to ask that you contact your Lead Regulator as soon as possible if you anticipate any actual or potential difficulties in maintaining access to homelessness services during the festive break and winter period, including being able to provide access to emergency or temporary accommodation if required, and supporting people who may face the prospect of rough sleeping.

You can also contact us during the festive holidays at shr@shr.gov.scot

Yours Sincerely,

Ian Brennan

Director of Regulation