The partnership set up to make it easier for people to find housing in Argyll and Bute has signed an historic Joint Working Agreement.

The agreement was signed yesterday by the partners in HOMEArgyll (Housing Options Made Easy, Argyll) - Argyll and Bute Council, Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA), Dunbritton Housing Association, Fyne Homes and West Highland Housing Association.

HOMEArgyll, which became operational in October 2006, was set up to improve the servicesoffered to people looking for housing in Argyll and Bute and to provide consistent, high quality housing information and advice on housing options within the area.

It has since been cited as an example of good practice in a report published by the Scottish Housing Network, and is also being used as a case study in new Scottish Government guidance due for publication later in the summer.

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Councillor George Freeman, Argyll and Bute's Spokesperson on Housing and Communities, said the signing of the new Joint Working Agreement was a natural step forward.

"Although HOMEArgyll has worked exceptionally well since its implementation, partners recognise the need to formalise working practices and partner responsibilities," he added.

"The Agreement is also intended to demonstrate the ongoing commitment of all partners to HOMEArgyll. The partnership’s continued success depends on establishing clear roles and responsibilities underpinned by formal working agreements, and this has now been put in place.

"HOMEArgyll has been recognised nationally as an example of good practice, and is clearly now making it easier for those people looking for housing in this area. I look forward to the partnership going from strength to strength in the future which will certainly benefit the people of Argyll and Bute."

The new Joint Working Agreement was signed in the Council Chambers at Kilmory at a meeting of the Argyll and Bute Strategic Housing and Communities Forum.

(GK/JM)