SFHA’s manifesto sets out a road map for Scotland’s social and economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic that puts access to high-quality, affordable housing at its core. Among its calls is for all political parties to commit to delivering 53,000 affordable homes between 2021 and 2026 as well as to a capital investment programme of £3.4 billion. SFHA said committing to this new target will tackle housing need, reduce poverty and create jobs.  

The manifesto focuses on the three themes of people, homes and climate change and sets out 25 actions to tackle housing need, poverty and homelessness; future-proof housing stock; and reduce Scotland’s carbon footprint. 

SFHA’s other asks include calling for the next Scottish Government to commit to: 

• a large-scale, multi-year funding programme for improving and refurbishing existing housing stock to bring it up to date with the latest government energy efficiency standards
• a review of the Housing for Varying Needs standard in order to mainstream standards of accessibility and make homes suitable throughout people’s whole lives
• continuing the transition to a Rapid Rehousing approach to homelessness and the investment needed to deliver it in Scotland
• a government engagement plan with housing associations on the implications of growing rent arrears, not only in relation to tenants but also their landlords, to minimise the impact on individuals and communities. 

Sally Thomas, SFHA chief executive, said: “Our manifesto sets out where the next Scottish Government and housing associations can work together to deliver for Scotland and its people.  

“No other sector has the ability to influence social and economic change to the same extent as the social housing sector. Our manifesto provides a road map that shows how we can continue to address housing need, tackle poverty and homelessness and reduce our carbon footprint. Committing to the actions in it will drive economic and social recovery following the pandemic. 

“In the run-up to next year’s elections, we’ll be engaging with all of Scotland’s political parties to make the case for investment in affordable housing to be a key part of the country’s recovery.”