29 November 2017

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced urgent new actions to tackle rough sleeping this winter, on a visit to Edinburgh homelessness charity Streetwork.

FM @NicolaSturgeon and @KevinStewartSNP announce further measures to tackle homelessness on a visit to @street_work pic.twitter.com/AbVhXTMNdL

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) November 28, 2017

The actions – recommended by the Scottish Government’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Action and immediately accepted by the First Minister – include increasing capacity and funding for emergency accommodation in areas with the greatest numbers of rough sleepers.

Welcoming @ScotGov FirstMinister @NicolaSturgeon to our Holyrood Hub today – launching recommendations from #Homelessness & Rough Sleeping Action Group. Proud to be #MakingThingsHappen pic.twitter.com/ec7BeqM07X

— Streetwork (@street_work) November 28, 2017

Joined by Housing Minister Kevin Stewart and Action Group chair Jon Sparkes, the First Minister had the opportunity to meet members of the Streetwork outreach team and those who have benefitted from this service, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to end rough sleeping for good.

The First Minister said:

These actions will provide more support for those who find themselves homeless and more safe and warm places to stay this winter.

“We have a shared commitment to eradicate rough sleeping and end homelessness which is why we established the Action Group, backed by £50 million to drive change.

“While we take these immediate steps to help those who find themselves at risk of rough sleeping this winter, the Group’s work now continues as we strive to end rough sleeping for good.”

Read more about the Action Group’s recommendations.