“Good quality affordable housing is essential to attract and retain people in rural communities, particularly in areas where key workers are needed. That’s why we are making up to £25 million available in a dedicated fund to make affordable homes for key workers, such as those working in the public sector and emergency services.” Paul McLennan Scottish Housing MInister
Lack of affordable housing is forcing families and young people to leave their island and rural communities. It is creating a crisis in workforce availability for those with jobs and those obtaining work locally unable to find places to live.
“This is a really exciting opportunity for both future tenants and the wider community here in Orkney and is something that other rural and island areas can certainly take inspiration from.” Emma Roddick MSP, SNP
“MND Scotland’s report ‘No time to lose: Addressing the housing needs of people with MND’, highlights the need for people with MND to be fast-tracked and prioritised for adaptations and accessible housing. ” Rhoda Grant MSP
“We must do all we can to attract and retain people in our crofting communities, particularly young families. That’s why we are committed to continuing and improving this vital support.” Mairi Gougeon Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands in the Scottish Government
“It’s now vital that everyone affected by the benefit cap applies to their local authority for a Discretionary Housing Payment to replace as far as possible the cash support removed by the cap. The Scottish Government has done the right thing, now the UK Government must act to scrap the cap altogether.” John Dickie, Chair of the Child Poverty Action Group
Orkney Islands Council has launched a consultation process to find out more about the islands Housing Requirements.
The new deadline applies to anyone operating as a host before 1 October 2022. Anyone who started operating after that must have applied for and obtained a licence before accepting guests and bookings.
The scheme allows people to buy a home without having to fund its entire cost and is available across Scotland to a wide range of people
The number of people receiving the reduction has actually gone down in Scotland since last year which is why it is important to check to see if you are eligible.
