We know that the Scottish Government is facing significant financial pressures ahead of this week’s fiscal statement and Programme for Government – there’s no getting away from the fact that it’s highly likely we’ll see more cuts to budgets that are already stretched.

But we simply can’t see more decline in the budgets for our aids and adaptations when it’s ever more important to support older and disabled people to live well in their own homes.

As our members know very well, housing adaptations at the right time, delivered and funded in the right way, can be life-changing for an individual, and for their family members or carers. Adaptations support independent living, full use of the home, ageing well at home and in the community, postpone the need for additional care and costly residential care, prevent falls and injuries, enable early discharge, and support carers. So, in short, make a huge difference not only to quality of life but related health spending.

And social landlords are at the forefront of providing appropriate and timely adaptations, from grab rails to large-scale adaptations such as extensions for wet rooms. But we know that current policy, legislative and funding systems are complex, confusing, and tenure-led (rather than person-led). For housing associations, budgets for adaptations, particularly Stage 3 funding for housing association adaptations, have been inadequate and suffered reductions of around £3 million in 2024/25 following a ‘stand-still position’ for the last 10-15 years. The system often leaves housing associations facing funding shortfalls or having to delay major adaptations.

Whilst SFHA recognise that the Scottish Government faces financial challenges this year, it’s critical that these budgets are increased both for the health of an ageing population, for individuals who really need an adapted home, and for the related benefits that provides.

As part of our influencing ahead of Programme for Government, we’ve been sure to make that case – we now look ahead to Wednesday to see what decisions have been made.