1. Do you have a homelessness policy?
See attached file.

2. Has a homeless health needs audit been completed?
No; but all homeless applicants have their health and wellbeing needs assessed as part of the homelessness assessment.

3. Has a local homelessness review been completed to consider health and wellbeing and the role of health services?
No; but to effectively integrate health and housing services a homelessness coordination cell was established between teams across different agencies and professions to discuss the health needs of rough sleepers. This has enabled the Council to enhance the work of our Housing Needs Team when supporting this cohort, to ensure continued joint working with colleagues and partner agencies providing mental health support, drug and alcohol support, health services etc.

4. Do you provide training for those working with people experiencing homelessness in health care services e.g., standards for GP receptionists in primary care and practice managers?
No; but best practice is shared between professional groups at the homelessness coordination cell.

5. Do you have Pathways/protocols/ services in place to prevent homelessness at discharge from hospital (including mental health and on release from prison)?
Yes; the Council recently appointed an Early Intervention Officer who works with partner agencies to draw up pathway plans and sit on multi agency partner panels; and establishing early alert systems.

6. Do you have a multidisciplinary team that works with people who are homeless?
Yes; all new verified rough sleeper cases are discussed at the Target Priority Group panel meeting, chaired by the Rough Sleeper Coordinator. The group is being expanded to include wider professionals from police and community safety teams and health professionals and other community-based support services.