Law now in force to prevent homelessness
- 28 Apr
A duty has now been placed on local authorities prevent homelessness via a new law.
Now all authorities must take "all reasonable steps" to prevent someone from losing their home within 56 days, following changes to the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, reports the BBC.
The Welsh government said it is "the most fundamental reform to homelessness legislation in over 30 years".
The move has been welcomed by housing charity Shelter Cymru whose director John Puzey has said homelessness "can happen to anyone".
Launching the changes on Monday, Communities and Tackling Poverty Minister Lesley Griffiths said it is a "major major milestone".
Councils will now have to use privately rented accommodation when necessary and work closely with the government and housing associations.
Additional funding and training programmes have been provided to local authorities by the Welsh government to introduce the changes.
Even those with no local connection and who do not fit any of the 'priority need' categories are entitled to help.
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