Today is Scottish Housing Day.

Cllr Chalmers, COSLA Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing stated:

"Our homes are foundational to our wellbeing.  A safe, secure and affordable home provides more than just shelter, it offers stability, dignity and a sense of belonging.

On Scottish Housing Day, it is important to recognise the vital role that housing plays in improving both physical and mental health.  When people have access to homes that meet their needs, they are better able to maintain their wellbeing and build positive futures for themselves and their families.

Well designed, energy efficient homes can help reduce fuel poverty and protect people from the health impacts of living in cold or damp conditions.  Homes built to accessible standards can also support independent living, help people adapt to changing circumstances and reduce the need for unnecessary hospital admissions or residential care.

As local communities across Scotland continue to face the pressures of the cost of living crisis, access to good quality, affordable housing has never been more important.  Investing in social and affordable housing is therefore not only an investment in homes, but in prevention, resilience and improved mental and physical health outcomes that can support public service reform.

Scottish councils are at the heart of delivering the housing, services and local leadership needed to create healthier, fairer and more resilient communities. By ensuring everyone has access to safe, suitable and affordable homes, we can reduce inequalities, improve wellbeing and give people the foundations they need to live fulfilling lives."