A report from Healthcare Improvement Scotland has highlighted the role of housing associations in homelessness prevention when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction. 

As Scotland seeks to strengthen its homelessness prevention duties, with new requirements in the Housing Bill, the report has called for a health-led integrated approach to the allocation of accommodation and homelessness prevention that balances suitable accommodation, recovery, and support. 

Engaging with housing associations such as Places for People and Sanctuary Scotland, the report highlighted good practice when it comes to helping individuals sustain their tenancies and avoiding eviction. 

Citing the work of Sanctuary Scotland, the report stated that the housing association’s community connectors alone have supported over 35 at risk individuals to maintain their tenancies, which has prevented eviction and homelessness. 

Anthony Morrow, Community Connector Manager at Sanctuary Scotland said: “The work of our Housing Management teams alongside Connectors has had a very positive impact in supporting tenants who are struggling with addiction. The focus is not only ensuring they don't lose their homes but on supporting them to access the recovery pathway they have identified as right for them” 

The full report from Healthcare Improvement Scotland can be accessed here.