Section 52 – Homelessness strategies
112.A homelessness strategy is a strategy to achieve the objectives specified in subsection (1). They are: to prevent homelessness; that suitable accommodation is and will be available for people who are or who may become homeless; that satisfactory support is also available for people who are or who may become homeless. An authority can consider any of its functions, not just its housing functions, when setting the strategy. Subsection (3) explains that the strategy can include action that the authority expects other relevant public authorities to take and action by any organisation – voluntary or otherwise – that can contribute to achieving the objectives. As stated in subsection (4), this requires the approval of the body concerned.
113.The strategy must include provision for people who are in particular need of support (subsection (6) refers). They include people leaving prison or youth detention, young people leaving care, people leaving the armed forces, people leaving hospital after inpatient treatment for a mental disorder and people receiving mental health services in the community.
114.A local authority must consult before adopting or modifying its strategy (see subsection (8)), which must be published. The requirements for publication are set out in subsection (9).