Homelessness and rough sleeping

Overview

The Committee is looking at homelessness in Scotland. This is part of the Committee’s commitment to investigate the key themes in its remit. This will help the Committee develop its priorities for work throughout this session..

During the COVID-19 pandemic changes were made to ensure people had safe accommodation. Local authorities worked together with the third sector and Scottish Government to house people in need. The Committee are keen to see progress on this is maintained.

The Committee's first meeting on homelessness was held on 4 November 2021. The meeting saw the Committee hear from stakeholders. It touched on subjects including:

• the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on homelessness and rough sleeping
• the complex needs and circumstances of many people who experience homelessness
• funding to support local authorities tackle homelessness
• long-term challenges implementing change
• homelessness prevention
• problems around children living in temporary accommodation

The Committee has written to the Scottish Government and COSLA and will continue to investigate this issue as the session continues.