Welsh Liberal Democrats call for action on intentional homelessness

12.00.00am GMT Wed 14th Nov 2007

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are to call for action on the issue of intentional homelessness in a National Assembly debate this afternoon.

They will be using the debate to call on the government to change the duty of local authorities to investigate intentional homelessness into a power, as well as providing accommodation and support for those found to be intentionally homeless for up to a year.

The number of households being found intentionally homeless in Wales has increased from 350 in 1996-97 to 894 in 2006-07. This represents a rise from 2.6% to 6% of all homelessness decisions.

"An increasing number of people are being designated as intentionally homeless in Wales." said Peter Black, who is the Welsh Liberal Democrat Housing spokesperson. "There are always going to be some people who act in such a way that they are going to lose their homes and are not going to accept support. But there are also some who lose their homes without knowing the full consequences of their actions, a problem faced by many who are young and possibly only just getting used to dealing with life and with money on their own."

"The changes we are advocating would mean that local authorities would have to provide support for those found intentionally homeless and allow them a chance to change their behaviour. If those who did not understand the consequences of their actions, or are simply no good with money, are educated in ways to change their behaviour then we can start putting them back into mainstream social housing."

ENDS

Notes:

Year Total Decisions (Households) Intentionally Homeless Percentage Intentional

97-98 13,003 350 2.6%

98-99 13,950 436 3.1%

99-00 12,395 461 3.7%

00-01 12,771 541 4.2%

01-02 13,982 511 3.7%

02-03 17,055 653 3.8%

03-04 20,935 707 3.4%

04-05 22,580 953 4.2%

05-06 18,593 914 4.9%

06-07 14,875 894 6.0%

Source: Local Government Data Unit Wales

Table shows the number of households declared as eligible, homeless, in priority need but intentionally so by financial year and the percentage of all homelessness decisions that have been found intentional.

The following is the motion for debate:

NDM3714 Kirsty Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

Calls on the Welsh Assembly Government to review its support for people declared intentionally homeless.

The following amendment has been tabled:

Amendment - Carwyn Jones (Bridgend)

Insert at end of motion:

"as part of the preparations for the One Wales Commitment to develop a homelessness plan to replace the current homelessness strategy".