A New Deal for Tenants - draft strategy: consultation

Ministerial Foreword - Shona Robison

The Scottish Government published Housing to 2040 in March this year, delivering Scotland’s first long term housing strategy. We set out an ambitious vision that by 2040 everyone living in Scotland would have access to a safe, warm, affordable, high quality and energy efficient home that meets their needs in the place they want to be, in a community they feel part of, and proud of, no matter their circumstances or where they live.

Reaching that goal included improving accessibility, affordability and standards across the rented sector, and publishing a new Rented Sector Strategy. Therefore I am pleased, that the Shared Policy Programme, which underpins the Bute House Agreement, built on our ambition further by setting out specific agreements between the Scottish Government and Scottish Green Party Parliamentary Group to delivering a new deal for tenants.

This Draft Rented Sector Strategy sets out how we will work with private and social landlords and tenants to make that a reality, outlining a range of measures to provide an accessible and affordable rented sector in Scotland.

I am determined that we make the long term changes that are required to improve outcomes for people and communities, as outlined in Housing to 2040. This Draft Rented Sector Strategy delivers on an important early commitment and is a positive step forward in taking forward those changes needed in the rented sector to deliver a new deal for tenants. Through this consultation I want to hear the views of how we deliver a strong rented sector for all. Following this wide ranging consultation we will develop the final strategy by the end of 2022 and bring forward housing legislation in 2023.

While we have been in the grip of the Covid pandemic, we have seen fantastic examples of the sector adapting, of landlords and tenants working together and of innovation and determination to support those in need. I would like to thank everyone who has supported and continues to support tenants and communities during these challenging times. And it has been during that time we have all seen the value of having a secure place to call home.

We look forward to receiving your comments to help us build a strategy to ensure that all homes for rent in Scotland are good quality, provide affordable options for great homes in thriving communities and we achieve a fairer more equal Scotland.