Perth and Kinross has seen the biggest drop in homelessness across the country, according to new Scottish Government figures.
The number of people presenting themselves as homeless fell from 1,025 to 780 between April and October 2019 – a reduction of 24%.
The data released by the National Statistics office also shows the local authority witnessed the number of households in temporary accommodation dropping by 24%, the largest decrease in Scotland.
The national average for people presenting themselves as homeless was 2%.
Conservative councillor Bob Brawn, housing and communities convener, believes the local authority’s new Home First approach has seen them lead the way in reducing homeless numbers.
The Home First scheme aims to re-home people more quickly by avoiding putting them in temporary accommodation such as bed and breakfasts.
The project will also see the council regenerate the notorious St Catherine’s Square into “vibrant” flats as part of the strategy.
Mr Brawn said: “This shows that we are a sector-leading local authority in the services we provide for homeless people and people who are at threat of becoming homeless.
“These tremendous results are thanks to our nationally-recognised ‘Home First’ approach which has had a transformational effect for people unfortunate enough to find themselves homeless in Perth and Kinross.
“Home First assists homeless people to move quickly and directly into settled housing, avoiding the need for temporary accommodation.
“It is about minimising the impact of homelessness for individuals and families where homelessness cannot be prevented.”
“This report’s findings are fantastic news for the housing service, its staff and our service users.
“I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all members of staff for their continued hard work, commitment and dedication. We are determined to build on this success and improve even further.”
