The SFHA’s chief executive Sally Thomas and director of external affairs Carolyn Lochhead were joined at Bute House by Angela Linton, CEO of Hillcrest Homes; Linda Leslie, chair of Kingdom Housing Association, and Caledonia Housing Association’s CEO Julie Cosgrove, who all provide homes in and around the First Minister’s constituency.

Described by the SFHA as “positive and engaged”, the discussion focused on key high-level issues facing housing associations and co-operatives, including the need for funding – and certainty about funding. The impact of Mid-Market Rent homes being included in any private sector rent cap was also outlined, with the development of MMR homes by SFHA members facing a steep decline.

Sally Thomas outlined the work housing associations do in communities across Scotland every day, as well as the sheer scale of housing need amid a housing emergency.

The First Minister was said to be receptive to SFHA’s concerns and recognised the vital work of members.

Ms Thomas intends to provide further reflections on the discussion later this week.