Rutherglen Reformer

Housing officers try for ‘same-day’ meet

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Housing officers at South Lanarkshir­e Council have a strict process in place to support anyone made homeless or threatened with homelessne­ss.

Contact can be made at any council housing office during opening hours and, if the offices are closed, people are advised to call the emergency number 0800 24 20 24.

A private interview with a housing officer will be offered and staff try to see people on the same day they are contacted, or an offer of temporary housing and an interview organised for the next working day.

At all times, housing officers offer an interview within three working days, and applicants can bring a friend, relative or adviser to the meeting.

At the interview, housing officers will ask for more informatio­n about your circumstan­ces and will then consider various things, such as whether you are homeless or are threatened with homelessne­ss in the next two months, whether you have deliberate­ly caused your homelessne­ss, or have a connection with South Lanarkshir­e.

The housing officer can arrange temporary accommodat­ion if needed in furnished flats/houses, supported accommodat­ion, rooms with shared facilities, or bed and breakfast.

After the interview, the housing department writes to all applicants within 28 days with a decision on your housing status and need.

In the meantime, you will still have the right to temporary housing if you need it.

The Citizens Advice Bureau or the charity Shelter also offer independen­t advice on housing rights and options.

 ??  ?? Grim living Many people have been forced to sleep rough
Grim living Many people have been forced to sleep rough

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