As the national provider of independent homelessness and housing advice in Wales, we see every day the barriers and shortfalls of the current system. People seeking advice tell us they struggle to get the help they need, when they need it – often reaching crisis point as opportunities to prevent their homelessness have been missed. Change is needed now.
The Homelessness and Social Housing Allocations Bill has the potential to initiate transformative change in how we tackle homelessness in Wales. The amendments agreed at Stage 3 strengthen the Bill further.
The Bill places a greater emphasis on prevention of homelessness and seeks to deepen cooperation across sectors in preventing and resolving homelessness. Amendments agreed in Stage 3 will ensure transparency of demand for social homes and ensure that the Ask and Act duty, which the Bill will introduce, is reviewed in a timely and effective way.
With thousands of people in Wales already homeless and trapped in temporary accommodation, it is vital that we seize the opportunity this Bill presents. We continue to encourage Members of the Senedd to support the Bill at Stage 4. We look forward to working with the Welsh Government to ensure that the strengthening of rights in law makes a difference to the lived experience of people facing homelessness in Wales.
