Scottish Housing Day 2018

Scottish Housing Day is a national event which will be held this year on 19 September.  The purpose of the day is to raise public awareness of the latest developments in housing and the different options available to people when deciding where to live. 

Access to good quality housing is vital to the economy of the Outer Hebrides and strengthens Island communities.  As 2018 is the Year of Young People, a key theme for the day will be addressing the specific challenges and aspirations facing younger people in accessing suitable housing. 

It is expected that housing organisations across Scotland will host a variety of activities to mark this year’s Scottish Housing Day on Wednesday, including an information event at Lews Castle College attended by local organisations Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar, Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP), Western Isles Foyer and Tighean Innse Gall (TIG).

Norman Macleod, Chair of HHP said, “HHP are committed to providing high quality homes and services.   As well as building new homes right across our Islands we are investing heavily in tenants’ homes and are making a major contribution to our communities and the local economy”.

Welcoming the opportunity Scottish Housing Day gives in raising awareness of housing developments, Cllr Kenny John Macleod, Chairman of the Comhairle’s Communities and Housing Committee, said “housing is a priority for the Comhairle and the current significant funding investment by the Scottish Government will make a strong contribution to our communities in retaining the population and supporting jobs in the building industry.  Alongside other local authorities in Scotland, the Government has set us an ambitious target within a short timescale but we look forward to continuing to work with HHP and our other partner agencies to provide more affordable housing throughout our islands to support the long term sustainability of our communities.”

The Comhairle and HHP work very closely with the Scottish Government to provide new affordable homes and support a range of choices for buying and renting.  As well as housing development and shared equity options, TIG offers advice and services over a range of activities including energy efficiency advice, adaptations and home safety.  Western Isles Foyer supports young people to manage and sustain a home by delivering independent living skills and provides training to assist in moving into education and employment. 

Representatives of each of these organisations will be available at the College on Wednesday to further advise on current developments and the housing options and services which can be accessed.

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