SFHA: social housing is a great place to live
Social housing is one of Scotland’s best kept secrets, says Scotland’s membership body for housing associations and co-operatives.
A recent poll showed that nine out of ten 9 out of 10 tenants in social housing are satisfied with the homes and services their landlord provides.
The results of a survey by Scottish Housing Daily show that also show 84% of Registered Social Landlord tenants are satisfied that their rent is good value for money and 89% are satisfied with the quality of their homes, both figures up on last year.
Some 94% of homes also now meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard.
The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) said this proves that social housing is a great place to live.
Carried out by YouGov, the poll asked 1,066 Scottish adults a series of questions on issues such as the government’s housing policy priorities, factors relating to their ideal home and perceptions around choice and affordability in different tenures.
The results show that only 13% of respondents think that social housing provides the best choice for a high quality home, while 76% believe home ownership provides the opportunity to secure a high quality home.
SFHA chief executive Sally Thomas said: “Social landlords work tirelessly within a culture of continuous improvement to build and manage high quality affordable homes in successful places that the people of Scotland need and deserve. This poll serves to highlight that social housing is one of Scotland’s best kept secrets.”
Thomas added: “We need a positive re-framing of the housing system, which puts genuinely affordable housing on equal terms with all other options – private rent and homeownership – and not as a last resort.
“We must start seeing housing through the lens of social justice, a good home for all in a successful community which puts a high quality roof over everyone’s heads and gives everybody the opportunity to make the absolute best of their lives.
“We have to recognise that the property ladder is a failed concept, and that as providers of some of the best quality, energy efficient, accessible and award winning housing in the country, it’s obvious that social housing is not second best, but a positive choice.
“At SFHA we want to see a property democracy, a level playing field of housing options and choices with tenure neutrality in terms of standards and quality, public perception and access. Affordable housing as a positive and equal choice in a re-balanced and mature housing market which delivers from generation to generation according to need and aspiration.”
SFHA and its members will be taking part in a number of activities throughout Scottish Housing Day tomorrow (Wednesday, 19 September).
