SFHA comments on Scottish Government’s draft rented sector strategy

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has commented on the publication today (Monday 20 December) of the Scottish Government’s draft rented sector strategy by welcoming the government’s ambition that all tenants should have access to secure, good quality, affordable homes. SFHA also said it was pleased that the draft strategy acknowledges the “key differences” between the social and private rented sectors. (1)   

Aaron Hill, SFHA Director of Policy and Membership, said:   

 “We share the Scottish Government’s aim that everyone should have access to a secure, good quality affordable home, and Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives are central to ensuring this is realised.

“We welcome the acknowledgement in the draft strategy of the key differences between the social and private rented sectors. Fairness, quality and affordability are at the heart of the social housing sector, with our homes built to the highest standards which are set by government, and tenants regularly engaged in important decisions, including during the rent-setting process.

“SFHA and our members look forward to working with the Scottish Government to shape the detail behind these important principles. Together, we can realise our shared ambition that everyone in Scotland should have a safe, warm, affordable home.”

 Mr Hill added:

“We are keen to discuss with the Scottish Government how the proposals could affect our members that provide mid-market rent tenancies (2). Mid-market rent offers the same form of tenancy as the private sector, but at lower cost to tenants, so it’s important that this remains a viable housing option for our members to provide for those who don’t qualify for social housing."

Mr Hill concluded:

“What is absolutely critical to delivering the Scottish Government’s ambition is ensuring that social landlords can deliver the affordable homes that are required to tackle housing need. And, to do, this, we must see investment rising with increasing costs during this parliament. Our members are facing new long-term pressures, such as rising costs and supply chain issues, and, without adequate investment, our members will not be able to deliver the homes Scotland needs, offer affordable rents, meet government standards and provide services.”

Ends    

Notes to editors:     

1. A New Deal for Tenants – rented sector strategy 
2. Mid-market rent is a form of affordable housing. Tenants generally pay a lower rent than their area's market rent level, but more than local social housing tenants
3. SFHA is the national membership body for, and voice of, Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives, with 139 members across the country. Find out more at www.sfha.co.uk