MILLIONS EARMARKED FOR HOUSING PROJECTS

23rd December 2009

Cash boost for housing support services

Twenty nine projects will share 2.4 million pounds from the Scottish Government to fund housing support initiatives across the country.

The Housing Voluntary Sector Grant Scheme supports projects tackling disabled and rural housing issues, repossession and debt advice, homelessness and support for projects helping ethnic minority

The Scottish Housing Advisory Service (SHAS) receives a contribution of £274,000 to provide guidance for frontline advisers on how to deal with housing enquiries. SHAS also delivers training for voluntary sector agencies on homelessness and security of tenure.

Shelter Scotland has been awarded £200,000 to maintain its housing law service and the Legal Service Agency will receive £40,000 for its defended evictions project in Glasgow.

Projects in the Highlands and Dumfries and Galloway will receive £180,952 to promote rural housing issues.

Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil said: "These challenging economic times are putting a strain on housing projects throughout Scotland. The Scottish Government will do all it can to help vulnerable members of our society.

"This funding will help maintain vital services such as legal and financial advice, support for those suffering from domestic abuse, and backing for housing projects in rural areas."

Alison Watson, Head of Services, Shelter Scotland said: "There has never been a more important time for families, tenants and homeowners facing eviction or repossession to access free, impartial legal advice and representation.

"As the recession continues to bite, Shelter Scotland's Scottish Housing Law Service and our team of specialist solicitors can ensure that losing your job doesn't have to mean losing your home.

"Today's announcement will enable the continuation of this unique service across the whole of Scotland for a further year."