WEST Devon Borough Council is the only local authority in Devon to have been awarded a three star 'excellent' rating in a review of homelessness strategies across the county.

The council's approach of incorporating homelessness within its main housing strategy, alongside all other key housing issues, was particularly commended.

The strategy is a plan setting out how housing services will be improved across West Devon to meet the needs of local people. It was praised for its clear and easy-to-read format, with aims and objectives supported by a robust action plan, specifically detailing target dates, resources and responsibility for achievement.

As a 'living document', the strategy is monitored on a quarterly basis, with reports going to local partners, community groups, councillors and stakeholders twice a year.

Annual updates are also produced, showing the outcomes achieved for local communities, with the action plan being reviewed and updated to take into account the changing local situation.

Information on the strategy has been made easily accessible in a variety of ways, one of which is through the council's website, http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk