SFHA Chief Executive outlines her vision for housing in Scotland
Sally Thomas set out the challenges and opportunities for housing associations at SFHA’s 43rd AGM.
The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations' AGM heard CEO Sally Thomas set out the challenges and opportunities for housing associations.
The AGM also welcomed SFHA’s 130th member, Ruchazie Housing Association, a member of the Easterhouse Regeneration Alliance and the 17th new SFHA member this year.
Sally said:
“Ruchazie is our 17th new member and it’s great to welcome them into the fold. Each one of our 130 members helps to strengthen our voice as the national body for Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives when working to influence and advocate in the best interests of our members and their tenants.
“The more we can represent housing associations and co-operatives across Scotland, the more we can broaden and strengthen the sector’s contribution to social justice and inclusive growth.
“We need to think global and act local. Housing associations and co-operatives contribute to creating a good society for all, tackling poverty and inequalities through targeted investment in our communities.
“Our focus has to be delivering on the Scottish Government’s affordable housing programme now and planning for the future, beyond 2021. We need the right homes, in the right places to meet people’s needs at every stage in their lives.
“Looking ahead, housing in Scotland is undergoing a fundamental shift and re-alignment and we have to be ahead of the curve and anticipate better what this means in terms of homes, communities and places.
“We need a positive re-framing of the housing system through the lens of social justice. Genuinely affordable housing must be on equal terms with all other options – not a last resort but part of the mainstream with private rent and home ownership.
“The property ladder is a failed concept – for too many it’s no longer possible, or even desirable, to climb a ladder. What’s needed is a property democracy – a level playing field of housing options and choices with tenure neutrality in terms of standards and quality, public perception and access. Affordable housing as a positive and equal choice in a re-balanced and mature housing market which delivers from generation-to-generation according to need and aspiration.”
Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Local Government, Aileen Campbell MSP, also addressed the AGM. She added:
“I am delighted to have this opportunity to meet staff and Board Members from Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives.
“The work done is vital to the provision of good quality housing and services for tenants, to building new energy efficient homes, creating jobs, supporting vulnerable people, and creating healthier and stronger communities across the country.
“Housing associations and co-operatives are key partners in our aim of creating a fairer Scotland. We want to continue to work together to meet the need for social housing, tackle homelessness, keep rents affordable and make homes warmer, safer and more energy efficient.”