Figures released yesterday from the National Records for Scotland show the population of Scotland is projected to increase by 2.5% to 5.57 million between mid-2018 and mid-2043. The figures estimate that there will be 240,000 more pensioners over the next 25 years, an increase of 23.2%, while the working-age population reduces by 7,000 people.

Sally Thomas, SFHA chief executive, said that the figures highlight how vital it is to secure the investment needed for more homes that are fit for people’s needs, both now and in the future. 

Ms Thomas said: “There remains a significant, and increasing, demand for social housing, with around 160,000 households on waiting lists. In 2015, we called for the delivery of 60,000 affordable homes by the end of this Parliamentary term in 2021. The Scottish Government responded with an overall programme of 50,000 and that is well on the way to being reached. 

 “However, the need continues to grow and ongoing Scottish Government investment in our sector is vital for its future and for the sustainability of communities.” 

Ms Thomas added: “Investment in housing is not just about building more homes but ensuring they meet people’s requirement at every stage of their life. 

“The number of people needing their homes adapted to enable them to live healthier, more independent lives has increased substantially but the budget has been frozen by the Scottish Government for the last seven years, with the backlog of required work growing each year.  

“Our members urgently need to know what the Government’s plans are for housing post-2021 to help them continue to build great homes in great places for the people of Scotland.”

Age Scotland warned that Scotland needs to urgently prepare for the health, care and housing needs of a rapidly ageing population, as well as a steep rise in older workers.

According to the figures, only 62% of the population will be working age, compared to 64% in mid-2018. With more deaths than births each year, growth could stall by 2043 if migration does not fill the gap.

Brian Sloan, chief executive of Age Scotland, said: “It’s welcome news that we’re living longer, but we need to do more to prepare for the health, social care, and housing needs of a soaring older population.

“This trend has been clear for years, but we are still not investing nearly enough resources in our NHS and social care system. They are already buckling under the strain, with delayed discharges out of control and too many older people unable to access the care they need, when they need it.

“Health and Social Care Partnerships across Scotland are also going to have to start firing on all cylinders to get this right. And it is only going to get more challenging with rising demand and fewer younger people to support them.”

Mr Sloan added: “Our research shows that thousands of older people are stuck in unsuitable homes and are unable to downsize or adapt them to fit their needs. We urgently need to build much more accessible, adaptable, age-friendly homes, that are part of communities and allow people to live independently as long as possible.

“With fewer people of working age, it’s essential that businesses do more to support older workers and invest in life-long learning. Working longer is becoming part of life, but too many older employees feel that their skills and experience aren’t valued.

“We need to prepare for the future by creating more age-inclusive workplaces. These would include better health support and flexible working opportunities, as well as a commitment to tackling age discrimination.”