Author: davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer

Consultation on incorporating the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

The Scottish Government is seeking views on how best to incorporate the UN’s ‘gold standard’ for children’s rights into Scots Law and improve the lives of children and young people.

UNCRC_summary

Continue reading Consultation on incorporating the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

Eidyn Care at the double at national awards

Eidyn Care has been recognised as one of the leading home care providers in Scotland at a prestigious evening awards ceremony celebrating the best of the independent care at home and housing support sector.   Continue reading Eidyn Care at the double at national awards

MSPs demand UK Government protect date of Universal Credit claim

A new service launched by the DWP which does not protect the date a Universal Credit claim begins has been described as ‘deeply alarming’ by Holyrood’s Social Security Committee. Continue reading MSPs demand UK Government protect date of Universal Credit claim

Consultation launched on time limits on temporary homeless accommodation

The time people facing homelessness spend in unsuitable temporary housing including B&Bs could be limited, following a consultation launched yesterday.

A seven-day restriction in unsuitable temporary accommodation for everyone experiencing homelessness, as currently exists for families with children and pregnant women, is being proposed.

The Scottish Government also wants improvements made to the consistency of temporary accommodation quality across the country.

While most temporary accommodation is generally good, with the majority of homeless households found accommodation in the social rented sector, there are no set standards which cover the range of temporary accommodation available.

The consultation will also consider what legally enforceable standards could look like, developed in partnership with the sector and people with lived experience. These changes would mean that people living in temporary accommodation will experience a higher and more consistent level of accommodation and support while a permanent solution to their housing need is found.

Speaking at the Housing First Scotland annual conference in Edinburgh, Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “Temporary accommodation can offer an important emergency safety net for anyone who finds themselves homeless with nowhere else to go, such as those fleeing domestic violence. But it should be just that – temporary.

“We want to make sure that the time anyone spends in temporary accommodation is as short as possible before moving to a more appropriate, settled home.

“It is also essential that temporary accommodation is of good quality so those who experience homelessness have the best possible chance to find their feet again.

“Making settled housing a priority is a key action in our plans to end homelessness, backed by £50 million of investment. We recognise the importance of a settled home for supporting people to live their life with good health, wellbeing and a sense of community and belonging.”

Read and take part in the consultation

 

 

 

 

 

CARMAGEDDON: Controversial Cammo development gets the green light

Residents worst fears realised – 655 new homes near Barnton junction

Controversial plans to build more than 650 new homes near Edinburgh Airport have been approved by city councillors. Continue reading CARMAGEDDON: Controversial Cammo development gets the green light