The budget for a programme that uses technology in housing to
help older people remain independent for longer will more than
double this year from £8.2 million to £20.9 million. This means
more housing association tenants will benefit from the Registered
Social Landlord Adaptations Programme, a preventative model that
also reduces hospital admissions and long-term care costs.
On her visit to Bield Housing Association's Tech Hub in
Linlithgow, the Social Justice Secretary saw a variety of
adaptations that are making a difference to the lives of older
people and saving public money.
Ms Somerville said:
“Scotland faces significant challenges as our population ages and
it is preventative, people-focused approaches like this that will
help us deliver better outcomes for older people while making the
best use of public resources.
“That is why we announced in our Programme for Government that we
would more than double the budget this year for the Registered
Social Landlord's Adaptations Programme from £8.25 million to
£20.9 million to allow housing associations to plan and deliver
more adaptations for their tenants.
“This financial year we are also investing £768 million in
affordable housing, the majority of which will be for social
rent. This reflects our long-standing commitment to ensure
everyone in Scotland has a safe and affordable home to live in.”
Chief Executive of Bield Debbie Collins said:
“Investing in the right housing and technology supports older
people to manage their health, stay connected, and live
independently - reducing reliance on formal care and helping to
avoid preventable hospital stays.
“We believe housing must be seen as part of the health and care
infrastructure and that continued investment in digital solutions
and accessible homes not only improve people's lives but delivers
public value by saving money in the long-term.”
