Midlothian ‘must deliver’ homeless act

Figures for the number of homeless people assessed as a priority by the council are at 88 per cent.

The charity said the reform to Scotland’s homelessness legislation will end the system where only those deemed a priority have the right to a home.

Passed in 2003, the act effectively extends the right to a home to single homeless people and couples without children.

Director of Shelter Scotland, Graeme Brown, said: “Midlothian Council has made some progress but there is still more to do as it works towards the 2012 homelessness commitment.

“Local authorities are under increasing pressure, but meeting the 2012 commitment is not a choice, it’s a legislative requirement that cannot be shirked from.”