Right Vision for Housing Blueprint, But More Resources Needed

Commenting on the Scottish Government's new blueprint for housing... Homes Fit for The 21st Century, launched today (Friday 4th February)  , the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) welcomed the overall vision of seeking to provide a home for all.

Therefore, the Federation underlined the need for Scotland to continue investing resources in new affordable housing.

SFHA Chief Executive Mary Taylor said:

"This document has provoked a useful debate about the challenges we face and it recognises the key point - we need more homes.

"Scottish housing associations and co-operatives have a proud tradition of providing good quality affordable housing, and so we welcome the Scottish Government's continued commitment to this. We agree with the condemnation of the proposed Housing Benefit cuts by the Coalition Government.

"We welcome the broad vision of this paper and look forward to exploring opportunities to diversify and innovate in the way that our members provide services, and to open up further private lending.

"But resources are the key to future housing provision, which will be a long-term asset to Scotland. We require significant continued public investment in housing to meet huge demand, provide jobs, and keep rents within the reach of those on low incomes. What's more, investing in housing is one of the best ways to boost the economy.

"This paper rightly recognises the need to get housing right to see benefits in a range of policy areas such as health and education. So if we invest now Scotland will reap the rewards later."

Dr Taylor continued:

""However, the new Innovation and Investment Fund announced by Government, with a one-third reduction in subsidy per unit, can only lead to rent increases. The country continues to need affordable social housing for people on low incomes.

"We caution that the expansion in support for mid-market rent and shared equity proposed by Government, will only work in certain parts of the country. "

 

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