Supporting tenants through current cost- of- living crisis

THE impact of the cost- of- living crisis on housing is clearly affecting people severely, especially younger adults who are more likely to rent their homes.

A growing number are finding that keeping a roof over their heads is a challenge, as many of us struggle to pay for food, transport and heating.

The increasing prices are compounding the longer- term disadvantage experienced for households already on low incomes.

Housing inequality and shortages are serious problems that have grown worse over time.

People on lower incomes are having a more difficult time than others when gaining access to quality, affordable housing.

We have to implement solutions necessary for a more just future to rectify the years of unjust housing policies that continue to impact families across Glasgow.

Last October, Patrick Harvie MSP led on emergency legislation to introduce a sixmonth rent cap and evictions ban through the winter months.

We can welcome confirmation that MSPs will vote to extend this legislation for at least a further six months.

The ban on evictions will continue across all rental sectors.

This ensures that for private tenants the rent cap will remain in place until at least September 30, with normal rent rises capped at 3%, well below the rate of inflation.

Also, for tenants of housing associations, the rents will be based on current consultations and linked to the improvement of homes, as well as the building of more affordable homes.

The not- for- profit social housing providers have completed a voluntary agreement to limit rent rises to an average of 6%, although most are expected to be below that level. The provision of these protections for tenants is vital during the cost crisis.

There is a need to continue gathering evidence and keep the situation under continual review, working with tenants and landlords.

Later this year, we can expect the Housing Bill to deliver a new deal for tenants, with permanent improvements including eviction protections and long- term rent control measures.

There is a strategic housing investment plan developed for Glasgow which outlines the delivery of affordable housing to meet the needs of tenants over the next three years.

The support of council services in keeping housing development going is crucial at this time.

We have to receive the resources needed to strengthen the council’s strategic role in planning and facilitating the required house building.

Demand for housing is at an all- time high and the council needs resources to help keep people out of hospital and able to live independently.

There are huge pressures within council services, with a combination of backlogs in planning and building control, and increasing costs linked to staff, construction and energy.

The requirement for increased core funding for local government has never been greater.

After years of austerity cuts and increasing demand, there are no “easy” savings to be found.

Savings create cuts to core services and will undermine efforts to address the housing crisis.

MSPs must recognises the very real pressures that councils face including pay, increased service demand, inflation, and Brexit when they vote on the Scottish Budget.