Scotland must prioritize housing fixes to prevent deeper crises

Local Councils Face Housing Challenges in Scotland

Local councils across the country are under pressure due to issues like poor mental health, staff shortages, and the rising cost of living. A central issue in these discussions is the lack of good, affordable homes.

Workshops Highlight Housing Issues

This reality was evident during “Afternoon Tea and Policy” workshops hosted by the University of the West of Scotland-Oxfam Partnership. These workshops brought together charities, housing associations, businesses, and local government. They discussed how to address Renfrewshire’s challenges related to the cost of living, health and social care, and employment and learning. A consistent theme emerged: housing is at the root of many local community pressures across Scotland.

Interconnected Problems and Solutions

The workshops showed that many problems are interconnected. Prioritizing housing could positively impact other areas. Some rules and regulations need fixing, but substantial additional investment is also necessary. The Scottish Government and thirteen local authorities have declared housing emergencies, prompting the government to allocate more funds.

Need for Affordable Homes

A report by Shelter Scotland, the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, and the Chartered Institute for Housing states that Scotland needs to build nearly 16,000 new affordable homes each year. This would cost £8.2 billion over the next five years.

Investment in Housing Programs

Further investment in void and acquisitions programs could bring more family homes back into use. Converting temporary accommodation into permanent housing is also overdue. Additional funding for vulnerable people, including rapid rehousing and Housing First grants, is a positive step. Targeted measures to boost supply across all tenures are also needed.

Role of Housing Associations

Affordable housing, including social rented, mid-market rent, and shared equity schemes, could help address many current problems. Providing quality affordable housing in the right locations, along with necessary supports, could lead to positive changes. Better physical and mental health across Scotland would result, improving people’s ability and willingness to work.

Community Support and Collaboration

Housing associations play a key role not just as builders but also in supporting tenants. They help those who have experienced homelessness, addiction, or long-term unemployment. As community anchor institutions, local housing associations understand local housing needs better than abstract planning systems.

Addressing the Housing Emergency

Scotland’s housing emergency is not just a supply crisis; it is also a crisis of opportunity. Housing associations and local authorities have supported tenants and rebuilt communities for decades. They understand their areas in ways that national planning models cannot.

Call for Political Will

To build a fairer, healthier Scotland, local organizations must be central to national housing efforts. Proper funding and collaboration are essential. Investing in affordable, high-quality homes near services, schools, and transport strengthens society. We know the problems and have heard ideas for change. The workshops have shown good will. Now, political will is needed to make housing a priority for Scotland’s future.