New rights for homeless people become law

Every homeless person in Scotland is to benefit from extended
rights under new legislation now enacted.

The changes are brought about by the implementation of sections
of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, which came into effect on 1
April. The major change is the right of any homeless
person to register for housing with any local authority or
independent registered provider of social housing. Previously
rights were limited to area of origin or current residence.

Other developments include a change in the definition of
“threatened with homelessness”, which will apply up to two months
rather than 28 days. Every homeless person has a statutory right to
request a review of any decision taken on them by a local
authority. Accommodation provided to homeless applicants must now
meet their special needs.

www.scotland.gov.uk