§ Mr. BoothTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has regarding grants to homeless voluntary organisations under section 73 of the Housing Act 1975; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesMy Department has completed its review of the section 73 grant programme. This incorporated the findings of research by York university, which was commissioned to assess the programme's effectiveness and consider its possible future direction. York found that the programme has been successful in providing assistance to a large number of single people. This confirms my own conclusions that the programme represents good value for money. I am pleased to announce that I have decided that the grant programme should continue.
The Government are to make £6.9 million available in 1995–96. In addition to the applications for funding we have received from existing projects, we anticipate bids to start new schemes in 1995–96. These grants will assist voluntary organisations around the country to meet the running costs of schemes which provide practical help for single people in need of accommodation. They will also enable Shelter, SHAC—the London housing aid centre—and the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux to maintain and develop the national homelessness advice service.