New homelessness prevention guidance has been issued to local authorities today as part of the Scottish Government's strategy to meet the 2012 homelessness target.

At the same time, the housing charity Shelter has been given additional funding of £96,000 to increase the capacity of its free Helpline - 0800 800 444 - to help meet the demand from those people with mortgage and debt worries. The funding will allow about 40% of additional calls to be handled.

The new guidance, developed in partnership with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), recognises:

• The prevention of homelessness does not happen in isolation from other issues and therefore a systemic approach is needed
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• Homelessness prevention is a corporate responsibility and must be embraced by all parts of the local authority
• The need to encourage pro-active and early intervention, based on a well understood knowledge of the local triggers of homelessness

"This guidance builds on the broader principles of early intervention and has been developed by a local authority homelessness practitioner."

Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland, the Housing and Homelessness charity, said:"We have seen a massive rise in demand for advice in the wake of the recession as people struggle with debt problems, mortgage and rent arrears and at worst eviction and repossession.

"This money will allow Shelter Scotland to help about 40% more people calling our Scottish Helpline and mean we can stave off the tragedy of homelessness when possible.

Early advice is the key to trying to keep the roof over your head."

(GK/JM)