Enterprise and communities (EqIA)

What is the policy / strategy / function trying to achieve / do?

The Homelessness Action Plan (HAP) 2025-2028 aims to significantly reduce homelessness in North Lanarkshire through prevention, rapid rehousing, and housing support. It focusses on early intervention, rapid rehousing, and tailored support services to address the root causes of homelessness, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

If this is a budget saving, how will the saving be achieved?

Not applicable.

If this policy is subject to the FSD, what does it suggest about the impact or potential impact on socio-economic disadvantage?

The HAP addresses socio-economic disadvantages by providing affordable housing, increasing housing stability, reducing material deprivation, and improving housing conditions in deprived areas.

Give details of the impact it has on groups and individuals

The Homelessness Action Plan (HAP) 2025-2028 is designed to positively impact various groups and individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable or at risk of homelessness. Key impacts include:

• Young People: Increased support through training, reception flats, and housing awareness education. The HAP includes initiatives to increase reception flats and implement pathway plans for independent living.
• Older Adults: Development of accessible and affordable housing, along with support services to help maintain independence. The HAP ensures that older adults have access to safe, suitable housing.
• Disabled People: Provision of accessible housing and tailored support services, including mental health support and staff training to better assist individuals with mental health needs.
• Women: Safe housing and support for victims of domestic abuse, including counselling and legal assistance. The HAP aims to reduce gender inequality by ensuring women have access to the resources they need for housing stability and safety.
• Ethnic Minorities: Targeted outreach and support services to address specific housing barriers faced by minority ethnic groups, ensuring equitable access to housing resources.
• Pregnant Women and New Mothers: Increased housing stability and support during critical periods, ensuring safe and secure housing options.
• LGBTQI+ Individuals: Inclusive housing policies and support services, with further research planned to understand specific needs and barriers.
• Children and Families: Reduced time in temporary accommodation and better access to settled housing, linking with education, health, and social care services.
• All Homeless People: Increased housing availability, reduced time in temporary accommodation, and improved support services. The HAP aims to assist all homeless individuals and those at risk of homelessness through effective prevention and early intervention strategies.
• Care Experienced Young People: Targeted support services, including increasing the number of training and reception flats, and implementing pathway plans to support independent living.
• Carers: Improved outcomes through stable housing and support services.
• Asylum Seekers and Refugees: Targeted support to address their unique vulnerabilities and ensure access to accommodation and support.

Overall, the HAP aims to provide good-quality housing options advice and assistance, enable people to remain in their current homes, reduce trauma and stigma, promote inclusion and community cohesion, alleviate economic hardship, and increase economic opportunities.

What actions / measures will be put in place or are planned to mitigate any adverse impact or promote equality?

Measures include staff training, monitoring and feedback mechanisms, strengthening partnerships, and targeted outreach initiatives to ensure the plan promotes equality and mitigates any adverse impacts.

What is the result/recommendations of the EqIA?

Introduce and monitor the HAP with measures to promote equality, foster good relations, and reduce socio-economic disadvantage.