The Scottish Housing News Podcast

Gregor Morrison, national contractor manager at Aico and Bob Cairney, director of technical services at SELECT, offer a practical and Scottish-specific perspective on how the new duties around damp and mould will work on the ground. Gregor brings insight from Aico’s work as a market leader in home life safety systems and environmental monitoring, including live Scottish deployments. Bob offers the trade body perspective, representing electrical contractors who will be key to delivering compliant solutions under the new regime. Given the imminent start of the legislation in Scotland, it will be a timely and practical topic for listeners. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/how-scotland-is-gearing-up-for-awaabs-law-podcast-transcript Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Interested in sponsorship? Download our podcast media pack ⁠here⁠. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/⁠

"The planets are starting to align for change." In this episode of the Scottish Housing News podcast, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black discuss the urgent need for accessible housing in Scotland with Michael Driscoll, Chair of the Scottish Accessible Housing Network and CEO of Horizon Housing, and Jill Pritchard, Horizon’s Chair and a leading voice in inclusive design. They explore the role of the Scottish Accessible Housing Network, the importance of setting national targets for accessible housing, and the challenges of funding adaptations. The conversation emphasises the need for a holistic approach to housing that includes the voices of users and the integration of health and social care. They also discuss the role of the private sector in providing accessible housing and the importance of celebrating good practices in the field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Accessible Housing in Scotland 02:34 The Role of the Scottish Accessible Housing Network 05:11 Urgency for Accessible Housing 08:07 Setting National Targets for Accessible Housing 10:55 Building Accessible Homes from the Start 13:39 Involving Users in Housing Design 16:41 Funding Challenges for Adaptations 19:40 The Need for a National Strategy 22:21 Holistic Approaches to Housing and Health 25:19 The Role of Private Sector in Accessible Housing 27:59 Celebrating Accessibility in Housing 31:02 Future Directions for Accessible Housing Network Further reading: The Scottish Accessible Housing Network Call to Action: https://www.horizonhousing.org/download/docm93jijm4n4017.pdf?ver=6746 A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/the-scottish-accessible-housing-network-podcast-transcript Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠ ⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠ ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/⁠

In this episode of the Scottish Housing News Podcast, hosts Kieran Finlay and Jimmy Black discuss the pressing issue of tenement repairs in Scotland, focusing on the recent recommendations from the Scottish Law Commission regarding compulsory owners' associations and building reserve funds. Guests Mike Heffron, chief executive of Under One Roof Scotland and Gillian Campbell from Gillian Campbell Consulting provide insights into the challenges of fragmented ownership, the role of local authorities, and the financial realities of maintaining tenement properties. The conversation also explores lessons from European models, the importance of legislative support, and the future of tenement maintenance in the context of decarbonisation and community engagement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tenement Repairs and Ownership Challenges 02:38 Scottish Law Commission's Recommendations 05:00 Implementation Challenges and Owner Associations 07:56 Role of Local Authorities in Tenement Maintenance 10:44 Building Reserve Funds and Financial Models 13:14 Cultural Shifts in Property Ownership 15:53 Future of Tenement Maintenance and Decarbonization 18:19 Legislative Support and Government Action 21:06 Success Metrics for Owners Associations 23:43 Conclusion and Future Outlook Further reading: Tenement law: compulsory owners’ associations: https://www.scotlawcom.gov.uk/news/tenement-law-compulsory-owners-associations/ A Workable Model for Building Reserve Funds: https://underoneroof.scot/a-workable-model-for-building-reserve-funds-new-report-out-now/ A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/compulsory-tenement-owners-associations-with-gillian-campbell-and-mike-heffron-podcast-transcript Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠ ⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠ ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/⁠

In this episode, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black explore one of the most urgent and least‑acknowledged dimensions of Scotland’s housing emergency: the disproportionate impact on Black people and people of colour. A new report from Shelter Scotland and the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER) reveals that systemic racism is shaping who gets help, who is turned away, and who waits the longest for a safe, permanent home. To unpack the findings, the hosts are joined by: Gordon Llewellyn‑MacRae, Assistant Director of Communications and Advocacy, Shelter Scotland Dr Nadia Ayed, Research Fellow at I‑SPHERE, Heriot‑Watt University Together, they examine the data, the lived experience behind it, and the practical steps needed to build an anti‑racist housing system. Further reading: Systemic Racism and Scotland's Housing Emergency Joint Report - https://scotland.shelter.org.uk/professional_resources/policy_library/systemic_racism_and_scotlands_housing_emergency I-Sphere’s Homelessness, Race and Ethnicity research - https://i-sphere.site.hw.ac.uk/2025/07/11/final-report-of-our-homelessness-race-and-ethnicity-research-programme-finds-shocking-evidence-of-inequalities/ Anti-Racism and Housing Network meeting (February 2026) https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/events/anti-racism-and-housing-network A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/confronting-systemic-racism-in-housing-with-gordon-llewellynmacrae-and-dr-nadia-ayed-podcast-transcript Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

"All of the evidence tells us that housing associations make Scotland healthier, wealthier and fairer" - Jen Gracie As Scotland faces a housing emergency in an election year, the conversation around housing policy has never been more crucial. In this edition, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black engage with Jen Gracie, public affairs and media manager at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA), and Susan Jackson, Campion Homes' joint managing director, to discuss the pressing issues and necessary priorities for the next Scottish Government. The SFHA released a series of policy papers titled 'The Road to 2026' to allow for a detailed examination of various challenges facing housing associations, ahead of compiling the main points in a single manifesto. Jen emphasises that housing associations play a pivotal role in making Scotland "healthier, wealthier, and fairer". The upcoming manifesto titled 'Housing Associations, Building Scotland's Future' aims to encapsulate the critical needs for the next government, ensuring that new MSPs understand the significance of housing associations. Susan Jackson shares insights from her extensive experience in the affordable housing sector. She stresses the importance of long-term funding for housing associations, citing the current uncertainty in funding cycles as a major barrier to effective planning and development. Susan also discusses the implications of new regulatory standards on housing development and the uncertainty surrounding costs associated with these regulations. Both Jen and Susan reiterate the need for clear guidelines and stability in regulations to encourage investment and development in housing projects. We are now available to watch on YouTube. Find us here: https://www.youtube.com/@ScottishHousingNews A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/what-housing-needs-from-the-next-scottish-government-with-susan-jackson-and-jen-gracie-podcast-transcript Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

This episode delves into the complexities of mixed tenure housing in Scotland, focusing on the challenges faced by social landlords in maintaining properties that include both social and private housing. Audrey Murphy, interim director at Abronhill Housing Association, and Professor Douglas Robertson discuss the implications of fragmented ownership, the limitations of current legislation, and the urgent need for solutions to ensure the upkeep and safety of tenement buildings. They highlight real-life examples of maintenance issues and propose potential strategies for improvement, emphasising the need for a unified approach to housing standards and responsibilities among all owners. Further reading: Why Flats Fall Down - Navigating shared responsibilities for their repair and maintenance: https://thinkhouse.org.uk/site/assets/files/1345/befs0120.pdf Tick Tock for Tenements: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/douglas-robertson-tick-tock-for-tenements A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/minority-landlords-and-mixed-tenure-repairs-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-should-we-let-our-tenements-crumble Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

In this episode of the Scottish Housing News Podcast, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black discuss the theme of 'Everybody Needs Good Neighbours' for Scottish Housing Day. They explore the importance of community and neighbourliness, the role of housing associations in fostering social connections, and the challenges of social isolation. Guests Callum Chomczuk, the national director for Scotland at the Chartered Institute of Housing, and Jamie Ballantyne, social regeneration manager at Queens Cross Housing Association, share insights on community engagement, the impact of digital connectivity, and the significance of small gestures in building trust and cohesion within neighbourhoods. The conversation emphasises the need for investment in social housing and the potential for positive change through community-driven initiatives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Scottish Housing Day 02:49 The Importance of Neighbourliness 05:33 Community Engagement and Regeneration Projects 08:25 Building Trust and Connections 11:08 Addressing Anti-Social Behaviour 13:49 The Role of Housing Associations 16:28 Celebrating Community Initiatives 19:34 The Impact of Social Isolation 22:19 Measuring Success in Community Work 25:03 Challenges and Opportunities for Housing Associations 28:04 Fostering Pride in Communities 30:54 Conclusion and Neighbourly Gestures Further reading: Scottish Housing Day report: https://www.cih.org/publications/scottish-housing-day-report-everybody-needs-good-neighbours/ Queens Cross Housing Association Social Regeneration Impact Report: 2024/25: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/uploads/SR%20Impact%20Report%20and%20cover%20202425%20Final%20Draft%20V3.pdf Cedar mural design: https://www.qcha.org.uk/news/484-over-200-local-children-help-with-cedar-mural-design A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/scottish-housing-day-celebrating-good-neighbours-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

In this episode, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black discuss the pressing issue of homelessness with Maureen Knight from Albyn Housing Society and Pamela Forrest from Riverside Scotland. They explore innovative strategies to prevent homelessness, focusing on proactive tenancy sustainment and the Housing First for Families initiative. The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced in different regions, the importance of community support, and the need for sustained funding from policymakers to effectively address housing issues. Success stories from both organisations illustrate the positive impact of their services on families and individuals in need. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:54 Highland Housing Challenge 07:38 Housing First for Families initiative 13:42 Proactive tenancy sustainment services 17:53 Community benefits and Tenant Support Fund 19:44 Expansion of Housing First in Dumfries and Galloway 22:04 Support systems for homeless families 27:10 Common challenges in remote communities 30:24 The role of policymakers in housing solutions 35:17 Success stories: Transforming lives through support A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/tenancy-sustainment-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-avoiding-arrears-voids-relets-and-failure Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

Join hosts Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black as they delve into the complexities of housing adaptations in Scotland. Featuring insights from Professor Vikki McCall from the University of Stirling and SFHA policy manager Susie Fitton, this episode explores the challenges and opportunities in adapting homes for an ageing population. Discover findings from the ‘What’s Next For Adaptations?’ report, the latest research from ISPA and the University of Stirling which has been commissioned by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA), the Chartered Institute for Housing Scotland (CIH Scotland) and the Association of Local Authority Chief Housing Officers (ALACHO). Highlighting the urgent need for policy reform to support independent living and future-proof housing stock, the episode also explores the importance of timely and appropriate adaptations, challenges in the current adaptation system, the role of housing associations and local authorities, and the impact of adaptations on health and social care. Resources: ‘What’s next for adaptations?’ full report - https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/uploads/SFHA%20-%20ISPA%20What%27s%20Next%20for%20Adaptations%20-%20Full.pdf ‘What’s next for adaptations?’ executive summary - https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/uploads/SFHA%20-%20ISPA%20What%27s%20Next%20for%20Adaptations%20-%20Summary%20DIGITAL.pdf ‘Road to 2026: Homes Fit for the Future’ report - https://www.sfha.co.uk/sites/default/files/2025-07/PDF%20-%20Road%20to%202026%2C%20Homes%20Fit%20for%20the%20Future.pdf Don't forget to subscribe and share the podcast. Visit our website for more insights and resources. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/whats-next-for-adaptations-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-adapt-and-thrive Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

Host Kieran Findlay delves into the world of cohousing with guests Tom Morton, convener of Cohousing Scotland, and Jenny Rambridge, a founding member of Hope Cohousing. Discover how cohousing fosters supportive communities, addresses housing challenges, and promotes sustainability, but also hear about the challenges and barriers in implementing the model in Scotland. Explore more about cohousing and join the conversation by visiting Cohousing Scotland's website and engaging with their online community. https://cohousing.scot/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0hUoRAykGtHzsA1Jikeruw https://www.facebook.com/cohousingscotland A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/cohousing-transcript Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠ ⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠ ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

For this episode of the Scottish Housing News Podcast, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black discuss the pressing issues of damp and mould in housing, focusing on the new Awaab’s Law legislation that mandates social landlords to address health hazards within strict timelines. Kerry Brown, co-founder and director of Alator Data Services, and Patrick McRedmond, the company’s technical product support manager, believe that not all RSLs are ready for the change. With backgrounds in housing, compliance, and environmental monitoring, they bring a unique perspective to this field and raise an important question: if the problem is now clearly the landlord’s to solve, is it still possible — and appropriate — to talk about tenant behaviour? A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/damp-mould-and-tenant-behaviour-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-data-beats-damp Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

In this episode of the Scottish Housing News podcast, hosts Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black discuss the complexities of retrofitting tenement buildings in Scotland with experts Josiah Lockhart, Mike Heffron, and Chris Carus. They explore the unique challenges posed by the ownership structures of tenements, the barriers to decarbonisation, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation highlights the need for innovative financial models, regulatory frameworks, and technical solutions to address the pressing issues of energy efficiency and climate resilience in Scotland's housing stock. Josiah Lockhart is the chief executive of Changeworks, one of Scotland’s leading environmental charities driving low-carbon living and retrofit innovation. Mike Heffron is the chief executive of Under One Roof Scotland, the national information service for tenement owners tackling common repair and maintenance. Chris Carus is co-founder and executive officer of Loco Home Retrofit CIC, a social enterprise empowering communities to take climate action through home retrofit. Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-we-need-to-talk-about-tenement-retrofit-and-heat-networks Chapters 00:00 Introduction to tenements in Scotland 02:59 Challenges of retrofitting tenements 05:50 Community and ownership dynamics 09:01 Barriers to decarbonisation 11:54 Case studies and real-world examples 15:03 Legal and regulatory frameworks 17:48 Future directions and innovations 21:04 Community engagement and support 23:56 Financial models and investment 26:55 Technical solutions and heat pumps 29:47 Conclusion and next steps Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

In this episode of the Scottish Housing News Podcast, Professor Duncan McLennan discusses the complexities of the Scottish housing system, addressing the notion of a housing emergency, the implications of the right to buy policy, and the urgent need for increased social housing. Speaking with hosts Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black, he emphasises the economic impacts of housing, the importance of quality and location, and the challenges faced in rural housing markets. The conversation also touches on the role of government in housing policy, the necessity for disruption in current practices, and the future directions for housing in Scotland. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/duncan-mclennan-transcipt Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-i-was-aghast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Housing Challenges in Scotland 03:02 Understanding the Housing Emergency 05:55 The Right to Buy and Its Implications 09:12 The Need for Increased Social Housing 12:03 Housing as a Merit Good and Economic Impact 15:00 The Role of Government in Housing Policy 17:56 Housing and Economic Growth 20:49 Productivity and Housing Quality 24:07 The Importance of Location in Housing 26:57 Challenges in Rural Housing Markets 29:52 The Future of Housing Policy in Scotland 33:04 Rent Control and Investment Concerns 36:00 The Need for Disruption in Housing Policy 38:48 Conclusion and Future Directions Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingne

In this episode of the Scottish Housing News Podcast, the discussion revolves around the proposed amendments to the Housing Scotland Bill, particularly focusing on homelessness prevention. The conversation features insights from Susie Fitton, policy manager at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA), Meave McGoldrick, head of policy and communications at Crisis in Scotland, and John Mills, head of housing at Fife Council and co-chair of ALACHO, exploring the implications of the Bill, the role of local authorities, the importance of collaboration, and the challenges faced in implementing these changes. The episode also addresses the need for a cultural shift in how homelessness is approached, emphasising prevention over crisis management, and the necessity for adequate resources and support systems to effectively tackle the issue. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/amendments-to-the-housing-bill-with-susie-fitton-john-mills-and-maeve-mcgoldrick-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-do-your-job-by-law Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Housing Scotland Bill 03:09 Key Amendments and Their Implications 05:48 The Role of Local Authorities in Homelessness Prevention 09:01 Challenges in Implementation and Resource Allocation 11:52 The Importance of Collaboration and Data Sharing 15:10 Addressing Domestic Abuse in Housing Policy 18:02 The Carrot vs. Stick Debate in Housing Legislation 20:46 Future Directions and Key Amendments Needed 24:08 Conclusion and Next Steps Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

Gillian Campbell, director of the Existing Homes Alliance, and CIH Scotland's policy and practice manager, Ashley Campbell, join Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black to discuss the Scottish Government's newly revised Heat in Buildings Bill. They explore the Bill's key provisions, its impact on industry, the challenges it faces, and the importance of balancing climate goals with fuel poverty. The conversation also highlights the need for effective communication and public awareness regarding energy efficiency, as well as the diverse solutions required for different properties. The role of social landlords and the private rented sector in meeting energy efficiency standards is also examined, along with the pressing issue of energy costs. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/the-revised-heat-in-buildings-bill-with-gillian-campbell-and-ashley-campbell-podcast-transcript Chapters 00:00 -Introduction to the Heat in Buildings Bill 03:02 - Key Provisions and Objectives of the Bill 06:08 - Impact on Industry and Investment 08:51 - Challenges and Concerns with the Bill 12:07 - Balancing Climate Goals and Fuel Poverty 15:02 - Communication and Public Awareness 17:56 - Diverse Solutions for Different Properties 21:11 - Role of Social Landlords in Energy Efficiency 24:11 - Private Rented Sector and Minimum Standards 27:00 - Addressing Energy Costs and Efficiency Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠ ⁠https://x.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews⁠ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd⁠ ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black catch up with Martin Wilkie McFarlane, who shares insights from his experience with Wellhouse Housing Association during a critical period of regulatory intervention. The conversation explores the challenges faced by Wellhouse, the impact of regulatory actions, and the broader implications for the housing sector in Scotland. Martin reflects on his career in housing, the ongoing homelessness crisis, and his future plans after leaving Wellhouse. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/martin-wilkie-mcfarlane-on-wellhouse-regulatory-intervention-and-more-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-my-fascinating-catch-up-with-martin-wilkie-mcfarlane Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

“Compulsory purchase reform is absolutely critical because we do need a backstop if landowners aren't prepared to come to the table on reasonable terms.” In this episode, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black speak to two guests who have new proposals to help adequately house people living in rural areas. Hamish Trench is the chief executive and accountable officer of the Scottish Land Commission, which has just published a new report that outlines various proposals to increase the supply of developable land and therefore the supply of affordable homes in rural areas. And returning to the podcast is Ailsa Raeburn, chair of Community Land Scotland, which among other things has called for a Right to Live to be introduced to establish a legal right for people to live in the community where they grew up. This podcast episode discusses the pressing issue of rural housing in Scotland, focusing on the challenges faced by communities in securing affordable homes. The conversation highlights the 'Right to Live' proposal aimed at ensuring local residents have access to housing, the importance of land supply for development, and the need for coordinated efforts among public bodies to address the housing crisis. The guests emphasise the role of local authorities and the necessity of innovative solutions to support builders and developers in rural areas. The conversation delves into the pressing issues surrounding housing emergencies in Scotland, exploring the roles of compulsory purchase, taxation measures, and planning reforms. The speakers discuss innovative strategies for housing development, the impact of the closure of Rural Housing Scotland, and the need for long-term solutions to ensure sustainable community growth. They emphasise the importance of collaboration across government and the necessity of creative thinking to address the housing crisis effectively. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/rural-housing-public-land-acquisition-and-the-right-to-live-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-more-equitable-land-ownership-can-put-future-of-rural-housing-on-solid-ground Further reading: SHN report on the new report from the Scottish Land Commission -https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/strong-role-for-public-land-acquisition-to-tackle-rural-housing-crisis-finds-scottish-land-commission Land supply for housing in rural Scotland -http://scottishhousingnews.com/uploads/Land%20supply%20for%20housing%20in%20rural%20Scotland.pdf ‘Right to live’ coverage on SHN -https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/tag/right-to-live Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ https://x.com/ScotHousingNews https://www.instagram.com/scottishhousingnews https://open.spotify.com/show/5ywXRXl40cxozNrBpReSTd https://bsky.app/profile/scottishhousingnews.com https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

“We go into this project not looking for awards but it's good actually to recognise the contribution of our staff and it's also a good way for our suppliers and the other stakeholders in this to be recognised as well. So it's a win-win-win for customers, us and the contractors.” If you could cut your tenants’ heating bills by 80%, you would, wouldn’t you? That’s what River Clyde Homes think they’ve achieved at a multi-storey block with 91 flats on the wild and windy hill above Greenock. So Jimmy Black and Kieran Findlay got in the car and went to see chief executive Richard Turnock and head of energy & sustainability Duncan Smith, as well as Ryan Ferrier, design manager from Kier Construction, for a guided tour of their energy centre and the fabulously refurbished Prospecthill Court, which is now a very desirable multi. Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode ⁠here⁠: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-prospecthill-court-shows-how-multis-can-be-desirable-places-to-live Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/ScotHousingNews⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/⁠

“If we can get 90% of it right, I'd be delighted if somebody else came up with the other 10% and built on that. That's the history of social housing, right? Standing on the shoulders of giants and keeping getting better and better and better. We're just part of that chain.” Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black wrap up their series on accessible housing with an exploration into what it takes to deliver a fully accessible home. Simon Fitzpatrick, the chief executive of Blackwood, shares the story behind a £17.5 million development that will bring 66 highly adapted, technologically advanced homes to the Charleston area of Dundee. Each of the homes is equipped with Blackwood's CleverCogs technology and there’s also some larger properties based on the Blackwood House design, both of which are explained in this episode. Recorded just days after the Housing & Social Care Accessibility Summit, the episode also includes discussions about the collaboration required to deliver a fully accessible development, measuring success and housing legacy. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/accessible-housing-part-4-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-wheels-lifts-and-transformational-housing Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://twitter.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/

“Partnership work is about relationships, it's knowing people, it's understanding each of us have roles and responsibilities but keeping in mind what we're all trying to achieve at the end of the day and that's the outcomes for people that live in our communities to allow them to thrive and survive.” Continuing with their accessible housing series, Kieran Findlay and Jimmy Black focus on the link between housing and social care services with a look into a region where it is working really well. Jacquie Pepper, chief officer/director at the Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership and Elaine Ritchie, strategic lead for Housing & Communities at Perth & Kinross Council, share how their Independent Living Panel serves as a forum for partnership working between housing, PKHSCP and other agencies, including RSLs and care providers. There’s a look into how Perth & Kinross has integrated technology into its social care services and why the Gannochy Trust estate provides an ideal development for care integration. The episode ends with a plea from Elaine Ritchie for the Scottish Government to reinvest in affordable housing to ease the current pressure on services and advance its own poverty agenda. Jacquie Pepper will join one of the panel sessions at the Housing & Social Care Accessibility Summit, which will take place at the V&A Dundee on September 26th. A transcript of this episode is available here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/accessible-housing-part-3-podcast-transcript Jimmy Black has written a blog to accompany the episode here: https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/articles/blacks-blog-working-together-through-a-crisis-in-perth-kinross Kieran Findlay is the editor of Scottish Housing News. Jimmy Black is a former Dundee housing convener and housing justice campaigner. Feedback on this episode and the podcast is welcome via our social media channels: ⁠https://twitter.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/28156734/⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/ScotHousingNews⁠ Read all our news and sign up for our free daily newsletter at ⁠https://www.scottishhousingnews.com/