Homelessness etc. (Scotland) Bill

# Homelessness etc. (Scotland) Bill Scotland's homelessness legislation had become outdated and unable to address evolving housing challenges. The Homelessness etc. (Scotland) Bill sought to reform the legal framework governing homelessness, which had remained largely unchanged since the 1980s. The bill was introduced to respond to persistent problems including rough sleeping, temporary accommodation overcrowding, and inconsistencies in how local authorities assessed and supported homeless people. It also aimed to strengthen protections for vulnerable groups and recognise that homelessness extends beyond those sleeping rough to include people in inadequate or insecure housing. The bill introduced several significant reforms to duties and rights under homelessness law. Key provisions included an increased duty on local authorities to prevent homelessness through early intervention; a new requirement to provide settled accommodation (rather than temporary housing) as the primary response; and extended duties to assess and support all homeless people, not just those in priority need categories. The legislation also introduced a new "intentionality" test and placed greater emphasis on local authority strategic planning. Following Parliamentary scrutiny and amendment during its passage through the Scottish Parliament, the bill received royal assent and became law, reshaping how Scottish councils approach and respond to homelessness.

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