Written question asked by Geoffrey Clifton-Brown (Conservative) on Tuesday, 12 February 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 26 February 2002. It was answered by Sally Keeble (Labour) on Tuesday, 26 February 2002 on behalf of the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions.

Dept for Transport Local Government and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, what steps are taken during rough sleeping counts supervised by the Rough Sleeping Unit to ensure the personal safety of those conducting the count.

Answer: Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what steps are taken during rough sleeping counts supervised by the Rough Sleeping Unit to ensure the personal safety of those conducting the count. [36985] Ms Keeble: Rough sleeping counts are arranged and supervised by staff from voluntary agencies and local authorities. Guidance issued to local authorities highlights that the safety of counters should be the overriding priority when carrying out a count and that safety is discussed before a count takes place. Counters work in pairs for safety reasons and to verify the accuracy of the records made. In some cases voluntary organisations have drawn up additional safety and good practice guidelines to ensure the well being of their staff and volunteers who help out with counts. Arrangements should also be made in advance by local authorities or the voluntary agencies for the safe transport home of counters, by taxi if necessary.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 36985; 380 c1166W;380 c1168W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Homelessness Statistics Safety measures Sleeping rough Rough Sleepers Unit
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk