Agenda Document Pack - Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee - 26/11/2025
Perth and Kinross Council · 26 November 2025
Back to Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee — 26 November 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Ambition | Compassion | Integrity Our vision is for a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality Council Building 2 High Street Perth PH1 5PH 19/11/2025 A hybrid meeting of the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee will be held in the Council Chamber on Wednesday, 26 November 2025 at 09:30. If you have any queries please contact Democratic Services on (01738) 475000 or email Committee@pkc.gov.uk. THOMAS GLEN Chief Executive Those attending the meeting are requested to ensure that all notifications are silent on their device and other devices are in silent mode. Please note that the meeting will be broadcast online and recorded. The recording will be publicly available on the Council’s website following the meeting. Members: Councillor Tom McEwan (Convener) Councillor Sheila McCole (Vice-Convener) Bailie Chris Ahern Councillor Peter Barrett Councillor Bob Brawn Bailie Rhona Brock Councillor Angus Forbes Councillor Ian James Councillor Iain MacPherson Councillor Carol Mair Bailie Claire McLaren Councillor Frank Smith Councillor Colin Stewart Councillor Jack Welch Bailie Mike Williamson Page 1 of 56
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Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee Wednesday, 26 November 2025 Agenda Members are reminded of their obligation to declare any financial or non- financial interest which they may have in any item on this agenda in accordance with the councillors’ code of conduct. 1 WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3 MINUTE OF MEETING OF HOUSING AND SOCIAL WELLBEING COMMITTEE OF 1 OCTOBER 2025 FOR APPROVAL (copy herewith) 5 - 8 4 OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STATEMENT (copy herewith 25/321) 9 - 10 5 VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS Presentation by Detective Inspector Kevin Mollison 6 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM - 2025 Report by Strategic Lead - Children, Families and Justice (copy herewith 25/322) 11 - 18 7 MISSING SHARES SERVICE - UPDATE ON PROGRESS AND NEXT STEPS Joint report by Strategic Lead - Housing and Communities and Chief Finance Officer (copy herewith 25/323) 19 - 26 8 COUNCIL OF SANCTUARY - YEAR 1 ANNUAL UPDATE Report by Strategic Lead - Housing and Communities (copy herewith 25/324) 27 - 56 Page 3 of 56
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HOUSING AND SOCIAL WELLBEING COMMITTEE Minute of hybrid meeting of the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee held in the Council Chambers, 2 High Street, Perth, on 1 October 2025 at 9.30am. Present: Bailies C Ahern, R Brock, C McLaren and M Williamson, Councillors P Barrett, B Brawn, J Duff (substituting for A Forbes), K Harvey (substituting for J Welch), I MacPherson, C Mair, S McCole, T McEwan, F Smith and C Stewart. In Attendance: E Ritchie, Strategic Lead – Housing and Communities; S Merone, Strategic Lead – Economy, Development and Planning; N Sworowski, J Ross, C Hall, S McDonald, K Easton and P Jarratt (all Economy, Development and Planning), S Hendry, J Guild, A Brown and M Pasternak (all Legal and Governance). Also in Attendance: Detective Inspector Graeme Templar, Local Area Commander G Burns (both Police Scotland); Area Commander B Todd, Station Commander J Fitzpatrick and Temporary Group Commander M Rumgay (all Scottish Fire and Rescue Service) (all up to Item 7), L Palmer and R Hammond-Baker (both Tenant’s Committee Report Panel) Apologies: Councillors A Forbes, I James and J Welch. Councillor T McEwan, Convener, Presiding. Councillor McEwan led on Items 1-7 with Councillor McCole leading on Items 8-9. 1. Welcome and Apologies Councillor T McEwan welcomed everyone to the meeting. Apologies were noted as above. 2. Declarations of Interest In terms of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct Bailie M Williamson declared a non-financial interest in Item 8. 3. Minute of Previous Meeting The minute of the meeting of the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee of 11 June 2025 was submitted and approved as a correct record. 4. Outstanding Business Statement The Outstanding Business Statement was noted, and it was agreed to remove the completed actions. 5. Police Scotland Thematic Update - Public Protection Unit DCI Graeme Templar provided a verbal update and answered Members’ questions thereon. 3 Page 5 of 56
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Following the presentation, Area Commander Burns advised that the role of Area Commander will be taken over by Jamie Allan from 25 October 2025. The Convener and Committee thanked Chief Inspector Burns for his engagement with the Committee over the years. Resolved: The Police Scotland Thematic Update – Public Protection Unit, be noted. 6. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Thematic Update - Wildfire Strategy Update There was a brief Strategic Update delivered by Area Commander Todd Covering recent management changes including the replacement of Craig Wallace with Mike Rumgay as Group Commander for Perth and Kinross, development of local fire and rescue plans, relocation of command support vehicle and an updated position on the service delivery review. There followed a slide-based presentation delivered by Station Commander Joe Fitzpatrick and Members’ questions were answered thereon. Resolved: (i) The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Strategic Update, be noted. (ii) The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Thematic Update – Wildfire Strategy Update, be noted. (There followed a short recess, and the Committee reconvened at 11.50am) (Bailie C McLaren left the meeting at this point) 7. Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026/27 – 2030/31 There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Housing and Communities and Strategic Lead – Economy, Development and Planning (25/244) (1) seeking approval of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026/27 – 2030/31 set out in Appendix 1, and (2) setting out the investment priorities for affordable housing over a 5-year period from 2026/27. L Palmer asked questions and provided comments on the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, on behalf of the Tenant’s Committee Report Panel. Resolved: (i) The content of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026/27 – 2030/31 (Appendix 1) and its submission to the Scottish Government, be approved. (ii) Ongoing development of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, be approved and delegated authority be given to the Strategic Affordable Housing Board to ensure that where projects fall out of the plan, alternative projects are prioritised. Page 6 of 56
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8. Culture Strategy 2023-2028 Mid-Term Review There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Economy, Development and Planning (25/245) (1) providing an update on progress made to date on the delivery of the actions contained within the Culture Strategy 2023-2028 (Appendix 1); and (2) seeking Committee’s approval for the progression of the Strategy and actions for the next 3 years. In introducing the report, K Easton, Senior Economic Development Officer, delivered a slide-based presentation, outlining the background and progress of culture within Perth and Kinross. Resolved: (i) The progress of the actions to date, be noted. (ii) The revised action plan detailed in Appendix 2 including the 3 new actions driven by Perth’s designation as a UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Art, be approved. (iii) The revised reporting structure, be approved. (iv) It be recommended that Strategic Lead (Economy, Development and Planning) brings back annual progress reports to this Committee. 9. Annual Assurance Statement 2024/2025 – Scottish Housing Regulator There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Housing and Communities (25/246) providing a brief overview of the Framework and appending the Annual Assurance Statement 2024/25 for approval by Committee. Resolved: (i) The requirement to submit an Annual Assurance Statement, be noted. (ii) The Annual Assurance Statement as detailed in Appendix 2, be approved. ~~~~~~~~~ Page 7 of 56
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HOUSING AND SOCIAL WELLBEING OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STATEMENT (OBS) (Report No. 25/321) Please note that this statement sets out outstanding decisions of Council / this committee / sub-committee along with an update and estimated completion date. Actions which are overdue are shaded for ease of reference. Where an update reflects that an action is complete then agreement will be sought to its removal from the OBS. No Date / Minute Reference / Report Number Subject Title Outstanding Action Update Lead Officer /Service Action Due/completed Action Expected 48. 8 October 2025 Item 5 – Police Scotland Thematic Update – Public Protection Unit Further information to be provided in relation to rape crime detection in comparison to other areas in Scotland. Circulated to Members via email 21/10/2025. DCI G Templar, Police Scotland COMPLETE 26 November 2025 49. 8 October 2025 Item 6 – SFRS Thematic Update – Wildfire Strategy Further information to be provided in relation to wildfire contribution to greenhouse gas emission statistics. Circulated to Members via email 04/11/2025. Station Commander J Fitzpatrick, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service COMPLETE 26 November 2025 50. 8 October 2025 Item 6 – SFRS Thematic Update – Wildfire Strategy Consideration to be given to implementation of guidance in relation to use of concrete pipes in high-risk wildfire areas. Further consideration and discussion with stakeholders to take place to allow informed consideration of appropriate guidance. N Sworowski / Economy, Development and Planning ONGOING 26 November 2025 4 Page 9 of 56
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No Date / Minute Reference / Report Number Subject Title Outstanding Action Update Lead Officer /Service Action Due/completed Action Expected 51. 8 October 2025 Item 7 – Strategic Housing Investment Plan Further information to be provided on impact of community right to buy legislation in rural areas. Circulated to Members via email 27/10/2025. N Sworowski / Economy, Development and Planning COMPLETE 26 November 2025 52. 8 October 2025 Item 7 – Strategic Housing Investment Plan Comrie Development Trust Community Action Plan to be investigated and incorporated. Circulated to Members via email 27/10/2025. N Sworowski / Economy, Development and Planning COMPLETE 26 November 2025 53. 8 October 2025 Item 7 – Strategic Housing Investment Plan Results of keyworker need survey to be shared and incorporated into housing objectives. Survey to be shared once follow up scrutiny of results is complete. Consideration will be given to including the survey results into the new and Housing Need and Demand Assessment (HNDA) that is currently underway and renewed every 5 years. N Sworowski / Economy, Development and Planning ONGOING 26 November 2025 54. 8 October 2025 Item 7 – Strategic Housing Investment Plan Detail of Empty Property Action Plan to be shared. To be considered by December meeting of the Affordable Housing MOWG before onward circulation to the Committee. E Ritchie / Housing and Communities ONGOING 26 November 2025 Page 10 of 56
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee Date of Meeting: 26 November 2025 Report Title: 16 Days of Activism - 2025 Report Number: 25/322 Report Author: Jennifer Middlemiss, Violence Against Women Partnership Co-ordinator Organisational Lead: Arun Singh, Strategic Lead – Children, Families and Justice ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the 2025 programme of events for the 16 Days of Activism in Perth and Kinross. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendation 3. Background/Context 4. Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact Value Assessment 8. Appendices 2. Recommendation It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 notes the content of the report and encourages support and attendance at the 16 Days of Activism events. 3. Background/Context 3.1 The 16 Days of Activism is an annual international campaign; a global call to action to end violence against women and girls (VAWG) which, worldwide, is one of the most widespread human rights violations. 6 Page 11 of 56
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3.2 Each year, activities begin in November, with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10, the International Human Rights Day, spanning 16 days of activism. 3.3 During this period, activities are organised nationally and locally, including workshops and educational campaigns, to engage communities and promote action. 3.3 The Perth and Kinross Violence Against Women Partnership is a long-time supporter of the campaign. 4. Main Issues 4.1 The primary goals of the 16 Days of Activism include: • Raising awareness: Highlighting the prevalence of gender-based violence and its impact on women and girls globally; and • Advocating for policy change: Calling for improved laws and services to protect women and girls from violence and to support survivors. 4.2 The Perth and Kinross Violence Against Women Partnership follow the priorities in the Scottish Government’s VAWG Equally Safe Strategy: • Scottish society embraces equality and mutual respect and rejects all forms of violence against women and girls. • Women and girls thrive as equal citizens: socially, culturally, economically and politically. • Interventions are early and effective, preventing violence and maximising the safety and wellbeing of women, children and young people. • Men desist from all forms of violence against women and girls and perpetrators of such violence receive a robust and effective response. 4.3 Leadership 4.3.1 The Chair of the Perth and Kinross Violence Against Women Partnership is the Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership’s Head of Integrated Health and Care (Adults). The Chair is supported by the Violence Against Women Partnership Co-ordinator who led a short-life working group to develop the programme for 2025. 4.4 Theme 4.4.1 The national theme for 2025 is ‘All Together to Prevent and End Violence Against Women and Girls in Scotland’. Page 12 of 56
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5. Proposals 5.1 Perth and Kinross Council have previously supported the 16 Days of Activism programme, and it is proposed that the Committee supports and promotes the 16 Days of Activism programme in 2025. 6. Conclusion 6.1 The 16 days of Activism is a crucial piece of work for the Perth and Kinross Violence Against Women Partnership in promoting its work to eradicate VAWG. Details on the programme for 2025 can be found in Appendix 1. 7. Impact Value Assessment 7.1 This report has been classified as being an operational report and as such does not require a full Impact and Value Assessment. 8. Appendices 8.1 Appendix 1 – 16 Days of Activism – Perth and Kinross Programme 2025 Page 13 of 56
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Appendix 1 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence Theme is #HOPE - What do you hope for in relation to VAWG? The national theme for 2025 is `All Together to prevent and end violence against women and girls in Scotland` PROGRAMME 2025 Date Time Event Location Pre Launch Thursday 20th November 1945 Perth Film Society presents: SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE In 1985, devoted father Bill Furlong discovers disturbing secrets kept by the local convent and uncovers shocking truths of his own. A sensitive and moving adaption of Claire Keegan’s acclaimed novel from director Tim Mielants, starring Cillian Murphy and Emily Watson. TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: perththeatreandconcerthall.com/booking/p erformance/?id=652602 Perth Theatre Joan Knight Studio Pre Launch Friday 21st November 1100 Launch featuring Mr John Swinney Tickets available: Launch Event - 16 Days of Activism 2025 at Perth Concert Hall, Horsecross Plaza event tickets from TicketSource Horsecross Concert Hall 6 Page 15 of 56
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Marketplace stalls RASAC/PWA/Deaf Links/Soroptimists/Perth Welfare Society/Strutsafe/Aberlour/Police Scotland/Perth Countryside Trust LAUNCH DAY Tuesday 25th November 11 am -1200 1215-1500 Soroptimists International Silent Vigil at Perth High Street Wellbeing Session. Ideas include healing through art and other natural creative activities supported by the Perthshire Countryside Trust. Meditation Session will be delivered by Violet Dalton “From Healing to Hope” Cillas story For bookings - https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/perth- kinross-council/t-jxkkoza PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A FEMALE ONLY EVENT Perth High Street outside M&S Perth Gallery George Street. Wednesday 26th November 10-3 “What were you wearing” exhibition This is an in-person event Perth UHI Library (upstairs) Main campus Wednesday 26th November 1530-1700 Domestic Abuse Basic awareness session Are you wanting to learn more about understanding and addressing Domestic Abuse? we have training set up for you!! This training will be supported by the Violence Against Women Partnership as part of the 16 days of activism campaign and delivered by Barnardos. To book contact TLaughlin@pkc.gov.uk ONLINE Thursday 27th November 930-1300 Homicide Timeline – Awareness Raising session 'Professor Jane Monckton Smith will be presenting the Homicide Timeline. Perth Theatre Joan Knight Studio Page 16 of 56
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This session will cover research which underpins the Timeline, discussion of Coercive Control and Stalking, deconstructing patterns of control and examining the 8 stages of the Timeline. There will also be time to meet with Jane after the event. Tickets available at: Homicide Timeline- Professor Jane Monkton Smith at Perth Theatre - Joan Knight Studio event tickets from TicketSource Thursday 27th November 0930-1500 “What were you wearing” exhibition This is an in-person event- No booking required Perth UHI Library (main campus) upstairs Friday 28th November 0930-1500 “What were you wearing” exhibition This is an in-person event - No booking required. Perth UHI Library (main campus) upstairs Tuesday 2nd December 1300-1400 RASAC Networking lunch RASAC No booking required just turn up on the day! RASAC Offices 16 King Street, Perth PH2 8JA Wednesday 3rd December 1730 hours March leaves at 1800 hours Reclaim the Night March March to show solidarity with women around the world living with fear and violence and demonstrate their right to walk the streets at night Just turn up on the night Perth Civic Hall Thursday 4th December Seminar 0930-1300 hours “Facing the truth finding hope” This will build on the event on the Homicide timeline this event “facing the truth and finding hope” This will feature presentations about the Domestic Homicide Review. Lynn Harris from No Feart an expert on supporting men who want help along with Emily’s Test Perth Art Gallery, 78 George Street, Perth Page 17 of 56
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Fiona who is the mother of an Aberdeen Student who completed suicide after being stalked. Tickets available at: Perth & Kinross Council online ticket sales powered by TicketSource Monday 8th December 0930-1230 RASAC delivery on Trauma informed Practice In Person event For booking, please email training@rasacpk.org.uk Alzheimer’s Office 7 George Street, Perth Tuesday 9th December 1000-1200 “A Taste of Hope”: Celebrating Women Over Tea & Cake For bookings: contact@perthwomensaid.org.uk Perthshire Women’s Aid Offices Page 18 of 56
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Housing & Social Wellbeing Committee / Finance & Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 November 2025 Report Title: Missing Shares Service – Update on Progress and Next Steps Report Number: 25/323 Report Author: Kirsty Steven, Principal Officer – Environmental Health EH@pkc.gov.uk Organisational Leads: Elaine Ritchie, Strategic Lead – Housing & Communities Scott Walker, Chief Finance Officer ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 This report provides an update on the progress made through the Missing Shares Service and seeks support to continue using the second homes budget to underwrite the value of predicted missing shares. 1.2 It also seeks support to increase the current maximum allocation per share and make the Missing Shares Officer post permanent. 1.3 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendations 3. Background 4. Context and Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact and Value Assessment 8. Appendices 7 Page 19 of 56
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2. Recommendations It is recommended that Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee: 2.1 Supports the ongoing use of the second homes budget to underwrite the expected future Missing Shares until the applications approved within the pilot period are concluded. 2.2 Supports an increase to the current maximum allocation per share. 2.3 Supports the proposal to make the Missing Shares officer post permanent. 2.4 Acknowledges the continued success of the pilot, and the increasing service demand. 2.5 Recognises the existing, effective financial mechanisms in place to secure missing share recovery. It is recommended that Finances and Resources Committee: 2.6 Approves the ongoing use of the second homes budget to underwrite the expected future Missing Shares until the applications approved within the pilot period are concluded. 2.7 Approves an increase to the current maximum per share from £10,000 to £30,000, with Strategic Lead approval beyond this amount. 2.8 Approve the proposal to make the Missing Shares officer post permanent. 2.9 Acknowledges the continued success of the pilot, and the increasing service demand. 2.10 Recognises the existing, effective financial mechanisms in place to secure missing share recovery. 3. Background 3.1 The original committee report seeking the pilot of a Missing Shares Service was approved on 31 May 2021 for a two-year period, with an Officer, and £200k of recoverable funding to underwrite Missing Shares payments from the second homes budget. 3.2 Three years later in June 2024, with a successful service established and increasing demand, an extension to the pilot for a further 3 years was agreed at committee until September 2027, under the same financial arrangements and with the ongoing employment of the Missing Shares Officer. Page 20 of 56
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3.3 Since its inception, the service has grown from strength to strength, delivering clear benefits to users and generating savings across the Council and beyond. Highlights of its success include: • Handled over 250 enquiries, resulting in £4 million worth of communal repairs, with £1 million of these repairs successfully completed solely through the provision of support and advice to property owners Only 29 Missing Shares applications were required, of which 19 are now concluded. Notably, 5 required no payment due to prompt repayment following completion of works. • Delivered communal repair information sessions in partnership with organisations such as Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust, Under One Roof, and Novoville. These were complemented by building condition and maintenance tours in Perth City Centre and the establishment of a ‘Buildings in Disrepair’ working group. • Fostered collaborative working across PKC services, including Housing Repairs, PKC Lets, Vacant Properties, Building Standards, and Environmental Health, and with external partners, particularly Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust. These joint efforts have enhanced support, improved efficiency, and unlocked additional funding. 4. Context and Main Issues 4.1 The service receives an average of 50-70 enquiries per year. However, the rising cost of applications indicates that the funding required for missing shares is likely to increase significantly over the next 2-3 years. 4.2 Positively, all missing shares to date have been secured against the relevant properties. In many cases, recovery has been swift, either through timely payment or structured payment plans, typically over a maximum five years. 4.3 While most application demand is concentrated in Perth; the service provides advice and support across Perth and Kinross. Completed applications have also been delivered in Crieff and Muthill. 4.4 The service is now drawing on additional external funding streams to enhance financial support for owners who may not meet the standard missing shares criteria. This includes funding from Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust and UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with ongoing discussions underway with the Council’s External Funding team. 4.5 Efforts are also being made to promote proactive building maintenance, helping owners avoid large-scale repairs and associated costs, which can often be prohibitive to owners. 4.6 To ensure the missing shares funding allocation delivers maximum impact, priority is given to facilitating substantial repair works rather than temporary patch repairs. As such, the maximum allocation per share and timescales for pending and predicted works have been reviewed. Page 21 of 56
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Examples of pending works include full roof replacements, comprehensive building surveys and masonry rebuilding. 4.7 Spend to date, allocated funds, and recovery details are provided in Appendix 1. However, it is uncommon for the full application process, from submission to completion of works and final missing shares payment request, to fall within a single financial year. 4.8 As a result, there is a discrepancy between the total value of applications received and the combined total of missing shares paid or pending. In some cases, additional works are identified after commencement, or the missing share is repaid before completion, meaning no payment is ultimately required. 4.9 AIl missing shares are secured through a recharging order against the benefitting properties. Encouragingly, 22% have already been recovered, and 51% are in active recovery, indicating a strong repayment rate. 5. Proposals 5.1 As detailed in Appendix 1, approximately £207,000 of missing shares has already been approved, pending completion of works – most of which are expected to be paid within the next year. 5.2 In addition, there is a further projected demand of £300,000, which would support £670,000 worth of repairs across 12 buildings, comprising 65 residential and 15 commercial properties. 5.3 This brings the total expected missing shares requirement to £507,000 during the pilot period. 5.4 Given the rising demand, approval is sought to continue using the second homes budget to underwrite the recoverable spend and ensure the service can continue. 5.5 It is also recommended that existing procedures be updated to increase the maximum allocation per missing share from £10,000 to £30,000, reflecting the scale of repair costs in many cases. Applications exceeding this amount would require approval from either the Strategic Lead for Finance & Business Support (Chief Finance Officer) or Housing & Communities. 5.6 Given the ongoing and growing demand for the service, it is further proposed that the position of Missing Shares Officer is made permanent, using the second homes budget, to ensure continuity in service delivery. 6. Conclusion 6.1 The Missing Shares Service has become a vital tool in supporting property owners, particularly those in vulnerable situations, by helping to address inequalities linked to poor housing conditions. Page 22 of 56
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These challenges, often worsened by the cost-of-living crisis, have a direct impact on mental and physical wellbeing. The service directly supports the aims of the PKC Community Plan 2022–2032 by targeting resources where they are needed most. 6.2 The outcomes speak for themselves: improved living conditions, safer and more sustainable buildings, and the preservation of valuable housing stock. The service empowers owners to take control of essential repairs, often safeguarding their only significant asset and building confidence for future maintenance. 6.3 The increasing scale of works requested through missing shares applications highlights the urgent need to address severe deterioration of buildings across Perth & Kinross, a challenge this will only intensify with the impacts of climate change. 6.4 By continuing to underwrite Missing Shares through the second homes budget and increasing the maximum share allocation, the Council can remove financial barriers, enable critical repairs, and reduce pressure on other services. This will ensure the long-term sustainability of our communities and reinforce our commitment to fairness, wellbeing, and resilience. 7. Impact and Value Assessment 7.1 Link to IVA 8. Appendices Appendix 1 – Recovery Breakdown Page 23 of 56
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Appendix 1 Value of MS Applications Approved (& Works Completed) 22/23 23/24 24/25 25/26 Total £15,820.75 £83,412.33 £107,716.16 £60,258.33 £276,208 Value of Missing Shares Paid (some shares paid/not needed/paying in instalments etc) 22/23 23/24 24/25 25/26 Total £0 £17,690.81 £60,470.30 £42,210.85 £120,371 Pending Missing Shares (works approved & underway but Missing Shares not yet paid) £206,739 Recovered missing share payments (Note these figures are awaiting financial update) Total Invoiced (MS Paid +15% +£80 per share) £138,145 Recovered* Payment Plan in Progress** Secured Debt*** £29,932 (22%) £70,396 (51%) £37,817 (27%) *Recovered – Full Missing Share debt paid back to PKC by the owner **Payment Plan in Progress – Owners have arranged a monthly repayment plan basis until the full amount is repaid, normally within 5 years ***Secured Debt - The owner has made no current payment towards the Missing Share debt, but the amount is secured against the property to be recovered at sale and undergoing standard debt recovery procedures in the interim. 7 Page 25 of 56
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee Date of Meeting: 26 November 2025 Report Title: Council of Sanctuary – Year 1 Annual Update Report Number: 25/324 Report Author: David McPhee, Team Leader – Equalities Organisational Lead: Elaine Ritchie, Strategic Lead – Housing and Communities ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this Report is to provide members with an update in relation to our work as a Council of Sanctuary. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendation 3. Background/Context 4. Update on the work as a Council of Sanctuary 5. Update on Our Sanctuary Seeking Population 6. Overview of Concerns and Local Protests 7. Recognition of our work as a Council of Sanctuary 8. Conclusion 9. Impact Value Assessment 10. Appendices 2. Recommendation It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Notes the content of this report and approves the continued work, as per Appendix 1, in relation to the Council’s commitment as a Council of Sanctuary. 8 Page 27 of 56
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3. Background/Context 3.1 Perth and Kinross remains home to a number of different groups of people seeking sanctuary from war, persecution or other troubles in their home countries through the various Resettlement programmes for Refugees and Asylum Seekers. This work reflects our overarching Council Vision of ‘a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality’ and is underpinned by our wider Equalities commitments to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations across all communities. 3.2 Perth and Kinross Council was officially recognised as a Council of Sanctuary by UK City of Sanctuary in September 2024, following a successful evaluation process. This came after the Council’s decision on 6 March 2024 to submit the bid (report 24/70 refers). 3.3 As a Council of Sanctuary we are now proactive within the umbrella organisation called the City of Sanctuary UK (https://cityofsanctuary.org/) which provides coordination and development support for networks of community groups supporting people seeking sanctuary including local authorities. Officers have been able to attend online events and share good practice, learning opportunities and resources as a Council of Sanctuary member. 4. Update on Our Sanctuary Seeking Population 4.1 To provide clarity and avoid confusion regarding the immigration status of individuals welcomed into Perth and Kinross, the following provides accurate definitions and an overview of our sanctuary-seeking population: • Refugee - Someone who flees from risk, danger or persecution and seeks humanitarian protection. A Refugee is someone whose individual application for protection has been recognised under the UN Convention on Refugees 1951. The UK Government operates several ‘safe and legal routes’ for people fleeing war and persecution. The routes are coordinated through UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS), which supports vulnerable refugees identified by the UNHCR to resettle in the UK, or in some cases through the specific Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP). There is no specific geographical focus. Local authorities receive funding to provide five years of integration support for people assisted through the UKRS and three years for the ARP. UK Government works with local authorities to provide settled accommodation from the point of arrival to those on resettlement schemes. It is important to note that people arriving through resettlement schemes come to the UK with refugee status already granted, unlike asylum applicants who apply after arrival. Page 28 of 56
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The number of people arriving under these schemes is relatively small, compared to overall immigration figures, and all have legal status. Their rights and entitlements are the same as other residents in Scotland, including access to benefits and welfare support, social housing, education, and healthcare. People are entitled and expected to work if able, supporting integration and independence within our communities. • Asylum Seekers (People Seeking Asylum) - a person who has made a claim to be considered for protection to a state which has signed the UN Convention on Refugees 1951. The UK has signed this Convention, and people can only claim asylum within the UK once they are in the country. People seeking asylum are provided with accommodation and financial support by the Home Office while their asylum claim is being assessed - £49.18 per week if living in dispersed housing, which is not applicable in Perth and Kinross, and £9.95 per week if living in hotel accommodation. Accommodation is procured and managed by Mears, the current asylum accommodation provider in Scotland, on behalf of the Home Office. Accommodation is provided on a no-choice basis and people seeking asylum must live in the accommodation offered by the Home Office. Participation in asylum dispersal is mandatory for all local authorities in the UK. Local authorities do not choose where asylum accommodation is located. 4.2 Our current sanctuary seeking population broken down by the respective groups is shown below (based on figures at 8 October 2025) – the combined totals equate to 0.44% of the total population of Perth and Kinross: Table 1 – Refugees Group Numbers Detail Homes for Ukraine Programme 358 First arrivals in 2022 supported by Housing Resettlement Team and local community host families. Various resettlement schemes, including Afghan, Sudanese & Syrian 75 Since 2015, 15 families have settled in the area supported by the Housing Resettlement Scheme. Page 29 of 56
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Table 2 – People Seeking Asylum Group Numbers Detail Asylum accommodation in hotels 185 From 22 different countries accommodated in 2 city centre hotels (first arrivals November 2021) multi-agency support. Separated/ unaccompanied children and young people (Children Alone Seeking Asylum) 54 Aged 16-25 from 13 different countries (first arrivals 2018) supported by Social Work CASA Team and accommodated in supported lodgings, private sector housing and supported accommodation. 4.3 At the same time as receiving approval to submit a bid to become a Council of Sanctuary, we committed to supporting the resettlement of a minimum of 20 people seeking sanctuary each year through existing refugee resettlement schemes, using private-sector accommodation for this purpose. We have met this commitment in our first year as a Council of Sanctuary, welcoming three Afghan families (23 people in total) under the Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP), as shown in Table 1 above. 4.4 According to the 2022 Census, Perth and Kinross had 150,953 residents, an increase of 2.9% (4,301 people) since the previous Census. Although the area is experiencing negative natural change (deaths outnumber births), the population is at its highest ever, driven by immigration from both within the UK and internationally, and not just from the groups outlined in Tables 1 and 2. Without immigration, the population would have declined, particularly among working-age people. Of the 150,953 residents, 137,351 (91%) were born in the UK and 13,602 (8.6%) were born outside the UK. 5. Update on the work as a Council of Sanctuary 5.1 Significant progress has been made on our work as a Council of Sanctuary. To ensure this work is co-ordinated effectively an Action Plan is in place (Appendix 1), and this report provides the first annual update of it. 5.2 It should be emphasised that this is a Multi-Agency Action Plan which reflects the cross-sector support provided. Below are some highlights from this Plan: • Cross-sector provision in place for teaching of English as a Second or Other Language (ESOL). • The Council continues to offer an innovative leadership course for members of our local sanctuary seeking population. During this reporting period, three course blocks were held, with 32 people successfully completing the course. Page 30 of 56
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• All new arrivals are offered a health assessment and support with GP registration (UK Government funding is provided to the Health and Social Care Partnership to support this). • A holistic support package is provided to Children Alone Seeking Asylum (CASA), coordinated by the Council’s dedicated team and where some young people have achieved Duke of Edinburgh and Youth Achievement awards. • A regularly reviewed programme of activities is available to support integration, engagement and wellbeing including a weekly Friendly Welcome football programme in partnership with Jeanfield Swifts with an average attendance of 37 during the most recent block of sessions. • Access to Live Active Leisure Compass Membership Scheme, with 94 individuals obtaining a card between April and September this year. • A programme of local events was delivered as part of the Annual Scottish Refugee Festival. • There has been positive engagement with Police, Fire and Community Support and Enforcement colleagues. A community safety programme has been developed covering water safety, fire safety, personal and community safety, and basic first aid skills including CPR. • A staff e-learning module on the Council of Sanctuary which was launched in June 2025. To date 129 staff have completed the module. • Two information sessions on the Council of Sanctuary were delivered to those with lived experience. 5.3 A local Community Integration Network is in place, bringing together multi- agency representation from groups and services that directly support our minority ethnic population, both new and longer established communities. This Network is currently chaired by representatives from the Scottish Refugee Council and has shaped its agenda throughout the year around the Council of Sanctuary Action Plan Key Themes. 5.4 Progress on the Council of Sanctuary work is reported as a standing agenda item on the Equalities Strategic Forum throughout the year. 6. Overview of Concerns and Local Protests 6.1 Unfortunately, this report coincides with a time of unrest and heightened tensions across the country ostensibly around the process of accommodating people seeking asylum in hotels. Perth has been affected by protests locally with 6 anti-asylum protests (including 1 unauthorised city centre march) taking place between August and October. All of these protests have been met by counter protests organised by Perth Against Racism. It is necessary and appropriate to reference some of the issues relating to this within this report to ensure full transparency. Page 31 of 56
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6.2 It is important to recognise that local residents have raised genuine concerns, whether through protests or as a result of information they have encountered online. These concerns can be summarised below, alongside the Council’s current position: Issue and Concern Position Increased use of hotels UK Government policy aims to reduce reliance on hotels for accommodation. While alternative models are being trialled elsewhere in the country, there are currently no plans to introduce these in Perth and Kinross. It is also important to note that the population is not static, both the number of individuals and their circumstances change as asylum claims progress. The UK Government has expressed a clear ambition to accelerate the processing of these claims, which will influence future accommodation needs. Community safety concerns There is no evidence of increased criminality as a result of there being an asylum population in the area. As with any population there may be isolated incidents which are addressed within the law. Members of the hotel-based asylum population receive information about the law in Scotland; engage regularly with Police and Community Support and Enforcement Officers and receive information sessions on cultural integration and community and cultural integration and rights as well as a wider programme on community safety, personal safety, fire safety, water safety. The Home Office contracted hotel support provider has safeguarding measures in place for all residents. It should also be noted that the majority of community projects which support people seeking asylum locally are led by women and no concerns have been raised by them. Housing pressures When someone seeking asylum receives a positive decision on their claim, responsibility shifts from central to local government. E.g. from the UK Government to Perth & Kinross Council. In Scotland, there is no priority needs test to access homelessness assistance. This means that Councils have a duty to assist and accommodate everyone who presents as homeless. When someone receives a positive decision on their asylum claim, they are given 28 days to vacate the accommodation provided by the Home Office. Many people in this situation relocate to other areas, but some make a homelessness application to Perth & Kinross Council and are provided with temporary accommodation and then social housing. In the last 5 years, we have received 70 homelessness applications from people with refugee status. In 2024/25, 35 former asylum seekers made a homelessness application, and in 2025/26 up to the end of October, we have received a further 28 applications from this group. Unlike the UKRS and ARP schemes, there is no funding provided to Councils by the UK Government for people with a positive asylum claim moving into the homelessness system and then social housing. Page 32 of 56
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Funding Immigration Policy is reserved and therefore administered by the UK Government through the Home Office and Department for Housing, Levelling up and Communities (DHLUC). There is funding available for post-arrival resettlement support, including housing and education costs. The funding tapers-off over 5 years on the basis that resettled people will become more integrated and independent over time. To date, Perth & Kinross Council has received around £2.5 Million from the UK Government to support the resettlement of the various refugee groups referred to in Table 1. In addition, almost £5.4 Million has been received from the Scottish Government, specifically for supporting Ukrainian displaced people. A Resettlement Team has been established with Housing, Support, Community Engagement and Social Work staff being funded on a fixed-term basis using the funding mentioned above. The Scottish Refugee Council has also been commissioned to provide community integration support to all resettled groups mentioned previously. In terms of people seeking asylum Home Office Grant funding is allocated. For 2025/26 Home Office Grant funding for people seeking asylum was based on a per capita count of the hotel population, as at 30 March 2025, with a quarterly adjustment thereafter. A further allocation was received to acknowledge the pressures placed on housing services for those moving on from the hotels once they receive a positive decision. To date, we have received over £244k. For our Children Alone Seeking Asylum (CASA) population funding is provided through the Home Office National Transfer Scheme. 6.2 To respond and address public concerns, a multi-agency group has now been established which has been meeting twice weekly (pre and post protest) since August. This group consists of representation from Police Scotland, key council services and the hotel support provider (Mears). An Action Plan is in place which is implemented as soon as a protest has been confirmed. This Action Plan has been identified as Good Practice and requested by other local authorities experiencing similar challenges. 6.3 The Council is represented at a fortnightly national cohesion sub-group co- ordinated by CoSLA and co-chaired by the Chief Executive of Glasgow City Council and the Chief Executive of Scottish Refugee Council. We have recently held our own cohesion workshop from services and third sector/community/faith groups currently providing services to our local asylum/refugee/minority ethnic populations and including 6 people with lived experience from our asylum hotel population in the overall attendance of 36. This was independently facilitated by Show Racism the Red Card and included a session on Challenging Harmful Narratives. Proposed actions arising from this workshop will be progressed once approved by senior management. Page 33 of 56
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6.4 There have been a range of communications issued in relation to this issue often in response to misinformation on social media. This is detailed in Appendix 2. The Home Office have now provided a template for completion for any incidents of misinformation, disinformation or malinformation relating to this topic (definitions of which are also provided in Appendix 2). 6.5 Incidents have been occurring within the wider community coinciding with the anti-asylum protests, and these have been recorded and reported where appropriate. These are also listed in Appendix 2. Nationally similar incidents are logged by Police Scotland on a Dashboard which is used to assess risk across local authority areas. 7. Recognition of our work as a Council of Sanctuary 7.1 Members are asked to note the continued work in relation to the Council’s commitment as a Council of Sanctuary and also the following recognition of this work to date at a national level: 7.2 On the 26 August, the New Scots Leadership Board hosted an event in Perth, bringing together individuals working with New Scots and those with lived experience. The event included a presentation on our work as a Council of Sanctuary. The Board oversees the strategic direction of the New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy, ensuring a collaborative approach between the Scottish Government, local authorities and the third sector to tackle issues affecting refugees and people seeking asylum in Scotland. Locally Perth and Kinross Council has aligned the New Scots Strategic Themes with our Council of Sanctuary Action Plan. The Board is chaired by Professor Alison Phipps, with members including COSLA Community Wellbeing Spokesperson: Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Minister for Equalities: Kaukab Stewart and Chief Executive of the Scottish Refugee Council: Sabir Zazai. 7.3 Following this visit, during which the Board met with individuals with lived experience, staff, community and third sector organisations, faith groups and Elected Members, Kaukab Stewart delivered a Ministerial Statement in the Scottish Parliament on 25 September acknowledging the work undertaken locally. 8. Conclusion 8.1 Earlier this year, the Council’s political leaders reaffirmed their commitment to our status as a Council of Sanctuary, in response to the rise in anti-asylum protests in recent weeks. This public statement of support was warmly welcomed by all those involved in supporting people seeking sanctuary. This report and action plan seeks to provide reassurance to political leaders that officers continue to support refugees and asylum seekers as part of the Council’s vision where all people in Perth and Kinross can live life well, free from poverty and inequality. The report also seeks to demonstrate that the level of support being delivered locally not only reflects but fully justifies that commitment whilst also acknowledging the concerns and additional impact on this area of work as a result of the protests. Page 34 of 56
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9. Impact Value Assessment This report has been classified as being an operational report and as such does not require a full Impact and Value Assessment. 10. Appendices Appendix 1 - Council of Sanctuary Action Plan – 1st Annual Update Appendix 2 – Incident and communication timeline – Anti-Asylum Protests Page 35 of 56
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1 Appendix 1 Perth and Kinross Council – People Seeking Sanctuary Action Plan 2024-27 (1st annual update September 2025) Linked to Perth and Kinross Local Housing Strategy – Specific Action “Continue to work with partners to offer housing and support options to refugees and asylum seekers in response to national dispersal and resettlement programmes” Proposed Action Local Priority National Outcome* Lead Officer responsible Timescale Current Progress 1. Theme - Language and Education 1.1 All people seeking sanctuary will be offered the opportunity to access some form of ESOL provision in the first instance Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 3 PKC Perth College UHI Ongoing Cross-sector ESOL provision in place – ESOL Provider Network established 1.2 All people seeking sanctuary will be offered access to their nearest library provision through partnership arrangements with Culture Perth and Kinross Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 3 CPK Ongoing CPK Libraries continues to work with Mears to ensure anyone who has recently moved to Perth is encouraged to join the library. 1.3 Anyone seeking sanctuary of school and nursery age will be supported through the school or nursery enrolment process Enabling our children and young people to achieve their full potential 3 PKC Ongoing To date, all known families with school and/or nursery age children have been supported through the enrolment process to ensure the children are registered and can 8 Page 37 of 56
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2 attend their local catchment school and/or local nursery. 1.4 People seeking sanctuary will be advised of options and supported to access any further education opportunities where appropriate Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 3 Perth College UHI Ongoing Classes in place 1.5 As a Council of Sanctuary, we will offer quarterly leadership courses specifically for members of our Sanctuary Seeking population Working in partnership with communities 3 PKC Ongoing During 2024/25 3 blocks of leadership courses have been held for people seeking asylum with 32 people successfully completing the courses 2. Theme - Health and Wellbeing 2.1 All people seeking sanctuary will receive a health check upon arrival Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 1 HSCP Ongoing Service users registered with local GP Practice and appointed to CTAC clinic for Health Assessment appointment as soon as possible upon arrival. Opportunistic health assessments offered where there has been lack of engagement which is Page 38 of 56
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3 easily facilitated with health assessments being carried out in the hotels. 2.2 All people seeking sanctuary will be supported to access GP registration upon arrival Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 1 HSCP Ongoing Admin Team compiles list of Service Users to ensure equitable registration to local GP Practices in Perth City. Process reviewed in August 2025. 2.3 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the process for accessing further health and care services (e.g. dental services) Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 1 HSCP Ongoing Service Users at heath assessment clinic appointment will be offered GP appointment/Dental service / Optometry if required. 2.4 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of mental health and wellbeing support available Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 1 HSCP Ongoing Service Users are offered/signposted to Primary Care Mental Health and Wellbeing service if required. 2.5 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the process for accessing appropriate vaccinations should they choose to do so Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 1 HSCP Ongoing Service users will be offered vaccination referral if required at health assessment appointment. 2.6 Age-appropriate care, welfare and support will be offered to any unaccompanied young person seeking sanctuary Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 1 PKC Ongoing We continue to support unaccompanied young people either Page 39 of 56
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4 referred through NTS, who are spontaneous arrivals or young people accommodated from the hotel, after being assessed as a child/ given benefit of the doubt pending further assessment. The CASA Team continues to offer a holistic package of support from living arrangements, financial support, ongoing advice, support, and guidance, liaising with professional networks, mental wellbeing support, and ESOL &youth work activities. 2.7 As a Council of Sanctuary, we will ensure positive engagement with the welfare support provider for those people seeking sanctuary based in local hotel accommodation Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 1 PKC Ongoing Mears represented at all Asylum Steering Multi-Agency Group meetings (and other meetings as appropriate) 3. Theme - Employability and Welfare Page 40 of 56
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5 3.1 All people seeking sanctuary who are eligible to access benefits will be supported to do so upon arrival Tackling Poverty 2 PKC Ongoing Information shared 3.2 All people seeking sanctuary will be supported to access employment and volunteering opportunities in accordance with their eligibility to do so Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 2 PKC Ongoing Ongoing support to access support with writing CVs, job searches, and college applications alongside signposting 4. Theme - Digital Inclusion 4.1 All people seeking sanctuary will be supported to ensure they can access some form of digital device as soon as possible upon arrival Working in partnership with communities 1 PKC Ongoing Those requiring digital devices are referred to appropriate local third sector advice/support 4.2 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of options available to them to receive any additional digital learning where required Working in partnership with communities 3 PKC Ongoing LEAD Scotland offer services 5. Theme - Housing 5.1 All people seeking sanctuary will be supported in the accommodation that is allocated to them within the relevant resettlement scheme that they are here under Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 2/6 PKC Ongoing The following families have been supported to resettle in Perth & Kinross and continue to engage with the resettlement support Page 41 of 56
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6 including any unplanned crises provided. We have commissioned a resettlement and integration service from Scottish Refugee Council and established a multi- disciplinary Resettlement Team Homes for Ukraine 150 families/358 people from 2022 onwards UKRS 1 family of 4 people, from Sudan, in 2023/24 Afghan ARAP 1 family of 7 people in 2024/25 Afghan ARP 3 families/23 people in 2025/26 to date 5.2 Should an individual’s circumstances or status change they will be supported to have their individual accommodation needs assessed and be advised of their available options Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 2 PKC Ongoing Families are all connected to the resettlement support and in the event of a change in circumstances would be supported to access housing advice to discuss their options and agree the appropriate Page 42 of 56
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7 solutions. At present all the families are settled in their current accommodation. 6. Theme - Community and Social Connections 6.1 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the social, leisure and sporting opportunities which are available to them. An updated ‘Activities Sheet’ is co- ordinated by Community Integration Network members. Working in partnership with communities 3 PKC Ongoing Activities Sheet regularly updated and network in place for community and third sector groups providing those activities 6.2 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the local relevant places of worship and introductory contacts appropriate to them Working in partnership with communities 3 PKC Ongoing A ‘welcome map’ is being finalised which includes all relevant support and contacts 6.3 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the most appropriate public transport options available to them (including access to bicycles if required) Working in partnership with communities 1 PKC Ongoing Public Transport Unit (PTU) would always provide all information in this regard to anyone seeking sanctuary requesting it. However, thus far, PTU have not received any such requests. Page 43 of 56
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8 Access to bicycles available to hotel residents via identified charity. 6.4 All people seeking sanctuary will be offered the opportunity to participate in the Council’s ‘Equalities Conversations’ programme (shaped around the Place Standard Tool) to share their lived experiences in the local area Working in partnership with communities 5 PKC Ongoing Sessions have been held with ESOL learners and specific discussions around the Council of Sanctuary have taken place with CASA young people and New Scots Advocacy Group participants 6.5 As a Council of Sanctuary, we will ensure that work is appropriately linked into specific programmes such as Scottish Refugee Festival and 16 Days of Action Working in partnership with communities 4 PKC Ongoing Programme of local events took place during Scottish Refugee Festival in June Links made for sharing any 16 Days of Action opportunities 7. Theme - Art, Culture and Sport 7.1 As per 6.1 above Working in partnership with communities 3 PKC Ongoing See 6.1 above 7.2 As per 1.2 above Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 3 Culture PK Ongoing See 1.2 above Page 44 of 56
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9 7.3 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the process for accessing subsidised Live Active Leisure (LAL) Compass Membership Cards (for which they are a priority grouping) Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 3 LAL Ongoing Between 1st April and 8th September 2025 - 94 Refugees or Asylum Seekers have held a LAL Compass Membership. Looking at these 94 members alone – they have amassed 370 usages at LAL venues. Between 1st April and 8th September 2025 – 331 different residents of the two hotels in Perth City have held a specific membership that is offered to them free of charge. Looking at these 331 members alone – they have amassed 4,004 usages at LAL venues. NOTE: In both cases – the individual memberships may have been issued as far back as 2nd April 2024 – every membership lasts 12 months and so Page 45 of 56
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10 therefore someone who was issued a membership on 2nd April 2024 would still have a ‘live’ membership on 1st April 2025. 7.4 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of local historical and cultural attractions and how to visit them (where possible to do so introductory visits will be offered) Working in partnership with communities 3 In partnership with Culture PK Ongoing A tour of Perth Museum was offered in partnership with Independent Advocacy. A discounted fee was offered for a historic tour of Perth. 7.5 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the multi- cultural and wider events programme which take place in the area (many of which are free to attend) and be encouraged to come along. If there is a key date in their own ‘cultural’ calendar which they may wish to be marked or celebrated support will be offered to consider the most appropriate way to do so Working in partnership with communities 3 PKC Ongoing Events programme shared widely 8. Theme - Legal Rights and Citizenship Page 46 of 56
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11 8.1 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of their legal rights in accordance with their status and advised of the support available to them Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 3 In partnership with Home Office Ongoing Home Office attend multi-agency steering group meetings and pass on details of approved legal contacts for sharing with people seeking sanctuary 8.2 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the laws of the land to ensure they don’t place themselves at risk of harm, exploitation or illegal actions Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 3 PKC Ongoing There have been various visits and presentations at the hotels - from Police, Fire, Support and Enforcement Officer - regular liaison visits by Support and Enforcement Team and PIP ensures intelligence is shared regularly allowing tactical interventions when necessary. Regular contact with ESOL providers and other community services. 8.3 All people seeking sanctuary will be advised of the support available to them in relation to hate crime and community safety Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 1 PKC Ongoing There have been various visits and presentations at the hotels - from Police, Fire, Support and Enforcement Officers - regular liaison visits by Support and Enforcement Team Page 47 of 56
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12 and PIP ensures intelligence is shared regularly allowing tactical interventions when necessary. Regular contact with ESOL providers and other community services. 8.4 As a Council of Sanctuary, we will ensure that people seeking sanctuary and Council staff are aware of the No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) process Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 2 PKC Ongoing Represented at NRPF Network and information shared as appropriate 9. Theme – Communication and Governance 9.1 As a Council of Sanctuary we will produce a communications plan to ensure this work is promoted to people seeking sanctuary, staff and the wider population Working in partnership with communities 2 PKC Ongoing Webpage developed 9.2 As a Council of Sanctuary we will hold twice yearly sessions with all stakeholders including those people with lived experience of seeking sanctuary to review the progress of the plan Working in partnership with communities 5 PKC Ongoing Sessions held with multi-agency steering group; New Scots Advocacy Group and CASA young people. Page 48 of 56
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13 9.3 As a Council of Sanctuary we will develop a mandatory e- learning module for all staff to raise awareness of individual responsibilities whilst working for a Council of Sanctuary Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people 4 PKC Ongoing E-learning module launched June 2025 9.4 As a Council of Sanctuary we will commit to representation at UK City of Sanctuary Network meetings and relevant associated learning events Working in partnership with communities 5 PKC Ongoing Network events are shared to allow staff to attend 9.4 As a Council of Sanctuary we will produce an annual progress report submitted to the Housing and Wellbeing Committee with regular updates to the Equalities Strategic Forum and Community Integration Network who will have an oversight role Working in partnership with communities 5 PKC October – annually Report prepared *National Delivery Plan Outcomes from the New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy: 2024 - 2026 1. New Scots live in safe, welcoming, inclusive communities, where everyone’s dignity is respected, and everyone is able to build diverse relationships and healthy intercultural bonds. 2. New Scots are able to access well co-ordinated services which recognise and meets their rights and needs. 3. New Scots understand their rights, responsibilities and entitlements in Scotland and are able to exercise these to pursue full and independent lives. New Scots can pursue their ambitions through education, employment, culture and leisure activities in diverse communities. 4. Communities in Scotland understand integration interculturally and respect the diversity and strengths that New Scots bring. Page 49 of 56
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14 5. Policy, strategic planning and legislation, that have an impact on New Scots, are shaped through their participation and informed by their rights, needs and aspirations. 6. The principles of the New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy guide all future responses to crises that bring forced migration to Scotland and seek to ensure all such migrants will be treated equitably. Page 50 of 56
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1 Appendix 2 Asylum Hotel Protest Incidents Timeline (with communication responses in bold): Thursday 24 July 2025 – made aware of notification on social media of a planned public gathering to discuss “peaceful protests” as the organiser claimed that “the hotels in Perth being full of illegal/unvetted immigrants” and “they’re seemingly adding more illegals to the hotels” Thursday 24 July 2025 - 9.10 p.m. incident in Station Hotel member of public entering without authorisation and assaulted security guard when asked to leave Friday 25 July 2025 – unauthorised filming of both hotels – Queen’s Hotel internally and Station Hotel externally Friday 25 July 2025 – misinformation being spread via social media/private chat groups claiming that the number of asylum seekers in the area was due to double. Elected Member Briefing Note issued and added to website for reference setting out factual position. Monday 28 July 2025 – staff article on intranet advising on issues to be aware of if considering taking part in public gathering/future protests. Wednesday 30 July 2025 – Public gathering held in public area at North Muirton to plan for “peaceful protests” of hotels in Perth accommodating people seeking asylum (approx. 50 reported in attendance) Tuesday 5 August 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note issued and added to website providing an update on the outcome of the public gathering and what is known about plans for protests for the weekend and potential impact on other weekend events. Wednesday 6 August 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note issued and added to website providing further information on planning for protests. Friday 8 August 2025 – staff news article refreshed to remind employees of responsibilities under Employee Code of Conduct ahead of protest. Saturday 9 August 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note issued and added to website providing further details of what is known about the protests. Saturday 9 August 2025 – Anti Asylum Protest and Perth Against Racism Counter Protest held outside hotels (approx. 200 reported in attendance) – no criminality reported or arrests made Saturday 9 August 2025 – CASA young person questioned by bus driver over validity of his bus pass ID (never happened before) Saturday 9 August 2025 – CASA young person told “to go back to where you come from” from by the same person twice 8 Page 51 of 56
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2 Monday 11 August 2025 – anonymous phone call received at Wellbank House asking “why do you house illegal immigrants in your establishment” Monday 11 August 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not made public) providing information on what happened at Saturday’s protest. Wednesday 13 August 2025 – Web page created on www.pkc.gov.uk providing clarity on PKC role in asylum seekers housed in hotels locally. Wednesday 13 August 2025 – misinformation/disinformation being circulated on social media/messaging chats claiming PKC had confirmed additional hotels/locations for asylum seekers. Social media post issued highlighting that this was fake and encouraging people to check sources. Elected Member Briefing Note issued asking for support to share accurate information. Friday 22 August 2025 – joint political leaders statement reaffirming Council’s commitment to Council of Sanctuary, issued on website, to media, social media and on staff intranet. Friday 22 August 2025 – majority of Councillor representatives on Perth and Kinross Community Safety and Justice Partnership issued joint statement criticising protests as negatively impacting community safety, issued on website, social media and to media. Friday 22 August 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not public) Saturday 23 August 2025 – Anti Asylum Protest and Perth Against Racism Counter Protest held in Railway Station Car Park (approx. 450 reported in attendance) – no criminality reported or arrests made Saturday 23 August 2025 – CASA young person had egg thrown at him in the city centre Saturday 23 August 2025 – CASA young person verbally abused and threatened at The Bank Monday 25 August 2025 – coach at Friendly Welcome football for asylum seekers and refugees received comments from passerby when turning up in car park before programme started “where’s our free coaching why are they getting it” Tuesday 26 August 2025 – damage to lock of bike storage unit for hotel residents reported (no definitive time for when incident occurred) Tuesday 26 August 2025 – 7 Saltire flags reported on lampposts in Primrose Cresent/Pullar Terrace area of Perth (reported as removed on 22 September) Wednesday 27 August 2025 – “Migrants Go Home” graffiti reported in South Inch Tunnel (removed on 28 August) Page 52 of 56
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3 Wednesday 27 August 2025 - female outside Station Hotel with two Union Jack flags with male recording her for social media content Thursday 28 August 2025 – noise complaints received by Environmental Health about Perth Mosque from fake name – investigation ongoing to verify whether complaint is malicious or genuine Monday 1 September 2025 – police made aware of someone gaining unauthorised access to Station Hotel Thursday 4 September 2025 – unauthorised filming reported outside Station Hotel Monday 8 September 2025 – unauthorised filming of Monday night football session (Friendly Welcome football for asylum seekers and refugees) as participants arrived Tuesday 9 September 2025 – Saltire flags reported on lampposts in Craigie area Wednesday 10 September 2025 – planned protest outside 2 High Street – subsequently cancelled Thursday 11 September 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not public) Monday 15 September 2025 – unauthorised filming and attempted entry to Station Hotel and unauthorised entry to Queen’s Hotel Monday 22 September 2025 – Saltire flags reported in Coupar Angus (removed) Wednesday 24 September 2025 – Perth Minorities Association reported online abuse from Anti-Asylum Protest organiser on their Facebook page Friday 26 September 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not public) Friday 26 September 2025 – Poster reported on bus stop (outside Broxden Dental Surgery) promoting Anti Asylum protest (reported by Elected Member and removal arranged) Saturday 27 September 2025 - Anti Asylum Protest and Perth Against Racism Counter Protest held in Railway Station Car Park and opposite Queen’s Hotel (approx. 150 reported in attendance) – no criminality reported or arrests made Monday 29 September 2025 – PKC Street Lighting team reported verbal abuse and unauthorised filming of 2 staff when removing Saltire flags from lampposts in Bute Drive last week Wednesday 1 October 2025 – social media misinformation about use of former Kilgraston School to house people seeking asylum – PKC statement of clarification issued on social media Page 53 of 56
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4 Friday 3 October 2025 – report of fire-raising incident in car park of Station Hotel earlier in week – may be anti-social behaviour rather than targeted - investigation ongoing Friday 3 October 2025 – Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not public) Saturday 4 October 2025 - Anti Asylum Protest and Perth Against Racism Counter Protest held in Railway Station Car Park (approx. 250 reported in attendance) – no criminality reported or arrests made Tuesday 7 October 2025 – Saltire flags reported at Newhouse Road (originally 4 but 3 removed) in Perth (on lampposts) and at Abbey Road Auchterarder bridge over A9 Wednesday 8 October 2025 – Union flag reported at Darnhall Crescent Perth (on streetlights) Friday 10 October 2025 – reports of increased racial abuse being experienced by local taxi drivers from black and minority ethnic communities Friday 10 October 2025 – report of Station Hotel resident (person seeking asylum) being verbally abused on South Inch Friday 10 October 2025 - Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not public) Saturday 11 October 2025 - Anti Asylum Protest and Perth Against Racism Counter Protest held in Railway Station Car Park (approx. 70 reported in attendance) – no criminality reported or arrests made Monday 13 October 2025 – “Kill All Blacks” graffiti with swastikas and “KKK” reported in Moncreiffe area of Perth (removed on 13 October) Wednesday 15 October 2025 – online Council post and media release with photo of Councillors promoting the upcoming Show Racism the Red Card Wear Red Day alongside Council of Sanctuary banner Wednesday 15 October 2025 – online rumour that anti-asylum protestors were planning a city centre march from the North Inch this weekend (led by group called Pink Ladies) Thursday 16 October 2025 – clarified with Legal Services that no public procession request had been received from anti-asylum protestors – advised that it was an operational police decision whether march was allowed to proceed Friday 17 October 2025 - police advised that if march was a walk on pavements without road closures they would dynamically police it on the day Friday 17 October 2025 - Elected Member Briefing Note circulated (not public) Friday 17 October 2025 – social media post issued advising public of the possibility of a city centre anti-asylum march Page 54 of 56
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5 Saturday 18 October 2025 – anti-asylum protest march took place through city centre (approx. 100 reported in attendance) with counter protest outside hotels Friday 24 October 2025 – police issued statement that a person had been charged with holding a prohibited procession (i.e. without the proper permission) Home Office definitions: • Misinformation (False information shared without intent to harm) • Disinformation (False information shared with intent to deceive) • Malinformation (True information used maliciously) Page 55 of 56
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