The Scottish Government has opened equity schemes to older people

The elderly are set to be allowed to access shared equity schemes in a bid to increase access to affordable housing.

It was announced this week by the Scottish Government that older people will have access to a range of its home ownership schemes.

Open Market Shared Equity Scheme and Help to Buy Scotland are amongst the schemes open, and retirement or supported homes could also be included under shared equity schemes.

Housing minister Kevin Stewart said the plans were aimed at providing more affordable options to the elderly.

He said: "People are living longer, which is to be celebrated, and I want to ensure they can access high-quality and affordable housing that meets their needs and enables them to continue living independently.

"As we age, our housing needs can change - we are responding to that with new and innovative solutions.

"These schemes will give older people the opportunity for home ownership that works for them and ensure they are part of our bold ambitions for affordable housing.”

The news has been welcomed by charity Age Scotland. Director Keith Robson said: "One of the benefits of this scheme is it will help people to downsize, and if they are already existing home owners, it will help free up bigger homes that are no longer appropriate for their needs. There's clearly a gap in the market for a scheme like this, and it will allow more movement to take place.

"It's important that older people have a range of options available to them, which are affordable and appropriate as their health and circumstances change throughout their lives. We also want to see options such as more social housing and solutions that allow people to adapt their existing homes.”