CHS Consultation Paper Final

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper

Consultation 1.1 During the summer of 2011, the City of Edinburgh Council will carry out a three month consultation with residents, tenants, partners and agencies to develop our City Housing Strategy. Purpose 1.2 The strategy is vitally important. It sets the strategic vision for housing in the city and outlines the challenges the city faces and the strategic choices which will need to be made. This affects how all of us live, our wider communities and has an impact on the economy of the city. 1.3 This consultation paper outlines the exceptional challenges facing Edinburgh. It covers all housing tenures including the private rented sector, those privately owned and those owned by the Council or a housing association. It examines the supply of housing and access to it, how quality is maintained and how well it is managed. It also considers how people can be supported to live independently. 1.4 Your views will develop the direction our housing strategy will take and how it should respond to the changing and challenging environment. We need your voice to be heard to shape these outcomes and commitments. Key Themes 1.5 To help focus discussion, our City Housing Strategy has been split into three key strategic themes: • • • Supply and Access Quality and Management Independent Living

1.6 This paper follows a similar structure; setting out the context for each theme and asking some of the big questions that will affect the shape of the strategy. These questions will help outline and illustrate the challenges ahead, but your comments should not be limited to these questions. They are there to stimulate debate and provoke discussion. 1.7 We will be holding a number of events over the summer. If you are interested in taking part in a focus group or a seminar you can register your interest by emailing us at [email protected]. You can also see

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

what events are coming up and download the consultation paper online at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/cityhousingstrategy.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Introduction 1.8 Edinburgh has been voted ‘Favourite UK City’ by Observer and Guardian readers for eleven consecutive years. As Scotland’s capital city it enjoys a high profile and a reputation at the forefront of various sectors including science and technology, finance, tourism and the arts. For Edinburgh to continue to thrive, the city’s housing market must respond to the changing environment and needs of its residents. The City Housing Strategy must set out and address these challenges. 1.9 Edinburgh needs 36,600 new homes over the next 10 years. At least 16,600 new homes need to be affordable. We define affordability as housing costing no more than 40% median income. 1.10 The economic downturn has made it even more difficult to build the numbers of new homes required. The number of private sector homes completed has reduced in recent years as developers struggled to borrow from financial institutions. Tighter lending criteria has restricted access to mortgages. Changes to homelessness legislation will improve the rights for homeless people, increasing the need to provide more permanent and temporary accommodation. These issues are looked at in more detail in the Supply and Access chapter. 1.11 Edinburgh is an old city with a large number of flats. For residents it can be difficult to organise, manage and fund much needed common repairs to maintain the fabric of the building. Over a third of Edinburgh’s homes are classed as being in ‘urgent disrepair’. Another major concern for people is the cost to heat their homes. Domestic emissions are responsible for 25% of Scotland’s carbon emissions. The main challenges are summarised in the Quality and Management chapter which looks at ways to ensure homes are more energy efficient, tackle rising energy costs and meet the demands of climate change legislation. 1.12 As Edinburgh’s population grows and people grow older, there will be greater pressure on existing housing and housing support. There will need to be better use of existing adapted homes, including within the private sector. Housing support will need to be used more effectively to ensure it meets the needs of a range of people who need help to live independently. Effective support is also needed to help those who are homeless settle into new homes so that they do not face the problem again, and to help people avoid homelessness in the first place. Giving people access to information at the right time will help them make informed decisions. This is discussed in the Independent Living chapter. 1.13 There have been a number of achievements following the publication of our previous City Housing Strategy in 2002. These are set out in the City Housing Strategy Successes summary. The strategy has helped us achieve neighbourhoods that are clean, green, safe, well-housed, well-maintained, well-informed and well-engaged. It also ensures that the Council’s work is

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

aligned with the Scottish Government’s Single Outcome Agreement. This work needs to continue and develop even more in the period of the new housing strategy.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

2

SUPPLY AND ACCESS

2.1 The biggest challenge facing Edinburgh in housing terms is the acute need for all kinds of housing. The city needs 36,600 new homes to meet demand for new housing over the next ten years. At least 16,600 of these homes need to be affordable. Edinburgh has always had an urgent need for more housing but this is now at its highest level in six years. Edinburgh needs around 3,600 new homes per year but since 2005/06 house builders have built fewer than 2,000 homes each year. This urgency is made worse by the downturn in the economy and house-building market. 2.2 In 2009/10, 1557 new homes began construction compared to 3,500 private completions in 2005/06. It is now more difficult for developers to get funding, and harder to sell new homes. With fewer new starts and current developments reaching completion, the number of new homes being built over the next few years will drop further. 2.3 Most people own their own homes but Edinburgh also has a large and important private rented market. The following graph shows the breakdown of tenure in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh's Tenure Profile 2008

19%

1%

16%

64%

% Owner Occupied

% Social Rented

% Private Rented

% Other

Data published by Scottish Household Survey 2010

Home Ownership 2.4 Home-ownership has been most affected by the economic downturn but house prices remain high. According to ESPC figures, the average price for a two-bedroom home in 2010 was £181,000; 20% higher than in 2005 and nearly five times the average household income in Edinburgh, according to CACI paycheck data. 2.5 Prior to the economic downturn mortgages were available for 100% of the value of a home or more, although the average deposit was more likely to be in the region of 5% to 10%. According to the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the average deposit for a first time buyer now is 25%. Based on the average selling price of a two-bedroom home in Edinburgh in 2010 this would require a deposit of £45,250. According to CACI paycheck data, the average income for 5

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

households living in Edinburgh in 2009 was £36,668. Assuming the average household could save 10% of total pay, it would take around 12 years to save a deposit for a two bedroom home. 2.6 Access to home ownership has changed dramatically in the last three years. According to Bank of England figures, the total new mortgages approved in November 2010 were down 41% from November 2007. Private Rented Sector 2.7 The reduced opportunities for people to buy their own home mean that households will have to consider renting. Edinburgh has a large private rented sector but if demand significantly outstrips supply there is the potential for increases in rents. There have already been some early rent increases which may be signs of a longer trend. Changes to housing benefit will see Local Housing Allowance reduced to the 30th percentile of market rates (down from the 50th percentile) from April 2011. If the private rented sector fails to grow in line with demand and rents increase, it will become less affordable. To grow the private rented sector will need increased investment. 2.8 More options are needed to increase the supply of private rented sector homes in the city. This will be difficult, since in this country there is no tradition of large scale investment in the sector, nor a tried and tested model for doing so. There is also a need to make private rented sector homes a positive choice for households who want to rent or cannot purchase a new home by improving quality and choice. If people do get priced out of the private rented sector they will look to access different kinds of affordable housing which is in short supply. 2.9 While the private rented sector may be out of some people’s reach, social renting may not be a realistic option due to high demand; intermediate or mid market renting could provide this alternative option. Affordable Housing 2.10 Affordable housing is provided by the Council, by Housing Associations and sometimes by other developers. There are already nearly 25,000 people registered on EdIndex, Edinburgh’s single common housing register for people who want to rent a Council or housing association home. Houses that do become available on Key to Choice - the Council’s choice based letting system – receive high volumes of bids. Households without any level of priority will struggle to access affordable housing through this route. In 2009/10, 93% of council lets were to households who had a priority under the Key to Choice system, with 62% of these lets going to homeless households. 2.11 The Council and its partners have a strong track record in delivering all the types of affordable housing options as set out by the Scottish Government. This includes options such as mid-market rent as well as low-cost home ownership options like shared ownership, shared equity and discounted sale. The Council also recently embarked on a programme to build up to 1300 new homes for sale and rent, including new Council homes for the first time in a

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

generation. The level of affordable new build developments now being approved has remained fairly static in recent years but has recently overtaken the number of approvals in the private sector because of the economic slowdown. Due to the acute pressure on public funding, it is unlikely that this level of development will be maintained in the future. Investment will need to be redirected into new models of affordable housing if it is to have any impact increasing the supply. 2.12 Providing houses at rents between Council / housing association levels and private rents (‘mid market rent levels’) is an important option for households priced out of the private rented sector. It is also an important option to make the best use of public funding. The Scottish Government’s discussion paper Fresh Thinking, New Ideas indicates that each traditional social rented home requires an average of £70,000 Government subsidy. Mid market homes can be provided with very low subsidy and sometimes with no subsidy at all. It is estimated at least 4,800 households in Edinburgh would be able to resolve their housing need through this kind of housing. 2.13 There is a need to improve access to different tenures of housing and to consider extending housing options beyond the boundaries of the city. The Council and its EdIndex partners are working on extending the use of EdIndex and Key to Choice for intermediate tenures, including Mid Market Rent (MMR) and Low Cost Home Ownership (LCHO). Further extension is being considered to Key to Choice for it to cover a wider geographical area. 2.14 Changes to housing benefit will see more people sharing accommodation; and a balance will need to be found between building the right number of family-sized homes as well as one and two bedroom homes to meet demand for the increasing number of smaller households. Edinburgh’s private homes are already well used. The number of homes which have been vacant for more than six months is amongst the lowest in the country. There is a perception that Edinburgh has too many flats with two bedrooms; arguably, it wasn’t the size of the home that prevented sale but their affordability. The housing market will need to meet the needs and demands of a changing population, allowing people to choose between upsizing and downsizing as their circumstances change. Supply and Access - Questions In order to stretch available public funding as far as possible should we stop building homes for social rent and only build new homes for mid market rent or low cost home ownership? Should Council rents be increased to allow the Council to build more new homes? How can we encourage people to downsize from larger housing? How can we increase the supply of private rented homes?

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

How can we support private developers to build more homes for market rent and sale? Can some of the demand for houses in Edinburgh be met by the supply of new homes in neighbouring local authorities? Should we encourage development of single room / bedsit type accommodation to meet the needs of single people? How can we change perceptions on housing options and ensure people get access to housing advice at the right time?

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

3

QUALITY AND MANAGEMENT

3.1 There are approximately 218,000 homes in Edinburgh, of which 136,000 are flats. 104,000 of Edinburgh’s homes were built before 1945. Both the age and profile of the city’s housing pose major challenges now and for the future. Repair and maintenance needs to get carried out regularly and effectively. Buildings and places need to be managed appropriately. Quality should not just be about the condition of homes but also how suitable it is for households’ changing needs.
Age of Stock
35 30 25 percent pre-1919 1919-1944 1945-1964 1965-1982 Scotland post-1982 20 15 10 5

Edinburgh

Age Profile of Edinburgh’s and Scotland’s Homes

3.2 Homes need to be maintained and repaired regularly to ensure they do not pose any safety risks. Tenements and flats have areas that are under common ownership needing joint decisions on repairs. Some homes will require specialist repairs to ensure the integrity of Edinburgh’s oldest buildings. There are currently 40 conservation areas in Edinburgh and over 4,500 listed buildings. The wide-ranging age profile of our homes mean different sets of skills are needed to carry out repairs and maintenance effectively. These skill sets must be promoted throughout the private sector to ensure adequate property management services exist to meet growing demands. Public Sector Property Management 3.3 98% of Council’s homes were built before 1982 although the Council’s 21st Century Homes programme will build up to 1300 new homes for sale and rent including new Council homes. Existing Council homes need to comply with the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) by 2015. An extensive programme of refurbishment is underway to meet the SHQS. 53% of Council homes now fully comply with this standard and £38 million was invested in improving homes in 2010/11. 9

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

3.4 The recent Scottish Housing Regulator Inspection awarded the Council’s Housing Management service an ‘A’ grade and the Asset Management and Repairs service a ‘B’ Grade. Alongside the Homelessness service’s ‘A’ Grade, this gives Edinburgh the best result of any housing service in Scotland. It identified some key recommendations and improvement actions to further improve a variety of business areas within the housing service. Many of these actions have formed the basis of key projects within the Council’s Strategic Projects Programme. Private Sector Property Management 3.5 Over one third of Edinburgh’s homes (79,000) are in ‘urgent’ disrepair; the next stage of disrepair being structural damage. A reduction in disposable income and a shift in people’s priorities will mean owners are less likely to spend their income on property repairs and maintenance. Incentives or different ways to encourage people may have to be considered as a way of kick-starting a shift in attitudes. 3.6 For those willing to invest, the Council has provided practical advice and information, to guide people through a range of issues such as carrying out common repairs, or setting up owners associations. 3.7 Recent legislation such as Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 and Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 have made it easier to get common repairs and maintenance carried out. The Council has made good use of the Tenement Management Scheme to carry out repairs and maintenance in blocks jointly owned with home owners. 3.8 There is little evidence that private owners have made use of these powers. If owners do not invest in homes now to prevent further disrepair, homes could become derelict with significant cost implications. 3.9 There has been a significant increase in the uptake of enforcement orders to ensure essential repair and maintenance is carried out. There are minimal incentives to organise works privately. Under a Statutory Notice works are carried out VAT free, with the council accepting financial liability if owners don’t pay their share. Many owners now see the last resort statutory function as the simplest and preferred course of action, putting increasing strain on a resource that was intended to be a ‘fall-back’ option. Responsibility for essential repairs and maintenance lies with home owners to prevent their buildings from becoming dangerous. 3.10 One method to ensure homes are effectively maintained is to appoint a property manager or factor. Property managers are more commonly appointed to new developments where employing a property manager is a condition written into the title deeds. This is less likely to be the case in older homes. The Scottish Government is committed to increasing confidence in the property management sector and to improving the service provided to consumers. Consideration is being given to introducing either a voluntary

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

accreditation scheme or a regulation scheme for property managers. The Property Factors (Scotland) Bill proposes regulation of property managers. 3.11 The private rented sector is an essential part of the housing market making up 19% of Edinburgh’s homes. It is important not to discourage landlords by placing unreasonable burdens on them that don’t apply to homeowners. Repairs and maintenance is not only a duty reserved for social landlords and owner occupiers. The council already provides a robust licensing system for HMOs, its Landlord Registration scheme, and a dedicated advice and information service. These all help drive up the quality of this sector for tenants and landlords alike. Landlords may generally be in a better position to invest in property maintenance and repairs but need to be treated in the same way as any other owner. Fuel Poverty & Energy Efficiency 3.12 The Scottish Government has set the ambitious target of reducing direct carbon emissions by 42% by 2020 and 80% by 2050 across all sectors. It is estimated that an average investment of £7,000 per home across Scotland is required to meet the 2020 target. This will include improving ‘hard-to-treat’ homes. These are homes that are either expensive or technically difficult to insulate (for example with solid walls, flat roofs or restricted loft space). Significant levels of work and investment will be required to meet these challenging targets. 3.13 As energy prices rise, more families fall into fuel poverty. 22% of households in Edinburgh are estimated to be fuel poor. This means that more than 10% of total household income is spent on fuel use. The Scottish Government has pledged to ‘eradicate fuel poverty as far as is reasonably practicable by 2016’. Fuel prices rose 19.5% between July 2008 and July 2009. With every 5% increase in fuel prices a further 42,000 households in Scotland become fuel poor. 3.14 Rising fuel costs and greater numbers of households falling into fuel poverty underline the need for more work to improve energy efficiency ratings and change peoples’ energy use patterns. Approximately 25% of all emissions derive from domestic households. Buildings will need to be adapted to meet challenging energy efficiency, carbon emission and energy renewable targets set by the Scottish Government and the European Union. 3.15 The Council has already invested significantly in its homes to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. One of the requirements of SHQS is to ensure homes are energy efficient against an NHER rating of 6 out of 10. The Scottish Government's recently published "Conserve and Save" energy efficiency action plan makes it clear that social housing will need to meet a much higher energy efficiency level than this to meet the 2020 target. Council homes currently achieve an average NHER rating of 7.2 although this is expected to increase when work carried out in 2009/10 is factored into this calculation.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

3.16 The Scottish Government has rolled out several housing-related projects to help tackle climate change issues: • • • • A simplified ‘one-stop-shop’ energy advice service (under Energy Saving Scotland) providing advice on issues such as energy efficiency, microgeneration, personal transport and fuel poverty The Energy Assistance Package co-ordinating fuel poverty and energy efficiency programmes, focusing on the least energy efficient homes in fuel poor households The Home Insulation Scheme improves the energy efficiency of houses, promoting and installing insulation and other energy saving measures. The Climate Challenge Fund helps communities with the development of carbon emission reduction projects

3.17 Another commitment is to have 50% of all electrical energy produced using renewable sources by 2020. The Council is investigating the various types of renewable energy technology that are suitable for urban areas. A feasibility study is currently underway to determine the cost and carbon impact of installing these measures against perceived benefits. Investment in renewable energy can be off-set through energy bills. 3.18 Over half a million new homes could be constructed between now and 2050; this would account for up to 20% of Scotland’s housing stock by 2050. These homes need to be as energy efficient and carbon neutral as practical. New building standards came into force in October 2010. New homes need to be more energy efficient, emitting approximately 70% less carbon dioxide than those built to the 1990 standards. Further enhancements for building standards are proposed for both 2013 and 2016. Local development plans must offset projected emissions through on-site micro-generation, ensure increased levels of insulation and improve efficiencies for space heating and hot water. 3.19 These issues bring a whole new set of challenges to housing and property management. Changes to housing benefit and new energy targets may mean that those advising on housing will have to be equally adept at dealing with energy and employment related issues. Local authorities also face the possibility of non-compliance levies if national and local targets are not met; although the impact of this on the domestic sector is currently unknown. These issues also bring opportunities for investment in exciting new technologies, the expansion of new industry in Scotland and the potential to provide a cheaper source of renewable energy for all residents. Place 3.20 Quality is not just about individual homes. It must include quality of the local environment and communities which are sustainable in the future. This means helping people to have access to employment and ensuring that where people live does not detrimentally affect their health and well being. If either buildings or places don’t work it is difficult to achieve a successful community. A 12

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

regeneration framework that tackles the key themes of early intervention, reducing inequality and improving health and employability is being developed with partners to deliver a neighbourhood-based integration pilot in North Edinburgh. 3.21 Where there is new development it must add value to the city, contributing to its character, recognising its history and shaping its future. Whilst the strategic allocation of new housing land remains a role of the planning system, the City Housing Strategy has an important function, encouraging all developers private, public and third sector - to recognise and work together to fulfil this obligation. 3.22 Placemaking is at the heart of the Scottish Government’s approach to new development, expressed through its policy statement ‘Designing Places’. It seeks to raise standards and ensure that Scotland’s rich tradition of establishing unique settlements continues to be reflected in the 21st Century and beyond. This placemaking approach to new development is vital. Planning for regeneration and the re-use of land must demonstrate how it ties back into and improves the city fabric. 3.23 Successful places do not follow a standard formula. Individual care and thought is required in each and every case. Nevertheless there are several key themes which can guide regeneration. Successful urban places are accessible, connected, welcoming, safe and well managed. They should be part of a neighbourhood, appropriately scaled, capable of sustaining different uses and flexible and adaptable over time. Masterplanning of larger sites and careful design of smaller ones must take account of location, neighbourhood, facilities and local economy, form and scale, materials and of course, their people. The contribution each makes is equally important in the current period of development slow down as it will be when the pace of new housing development and regeneration accelerates. 3.24 The Council has a suite of policies and guidance to steer and encourage quality in the built environment, including the Edinburgh City Local Plan, Standards for Housing and Sustainable Building and Streets.

Quality and Management – Questions Repairs and Maintenance What would have the most impact on improving the condition of Edinburgh’s homes? How do we move away from a reactionary way of dealing with repairs through statutory enforcement to a more proactive/planned approach? How do we encourage owners to take responsibility for future repairs and maintenance?

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Should the Council work with owners in privately owned blocks to organise repairs with the Council acting as a facilitator but charging for the service? How do we prevent older homes from getting beyond viable repair as a result of long term neglect?

Energy Efficiency How do we ensure that people invest in their homes to reduce carbon emissions by 42% by 2020? How do we encourage the private sector to invest in energy efficiency measures? Can they be encouraged through incentives, such as financial return on investment or tax breaks? Should the Scottish Government improve existing powers so that local authorities can compel owners to improve the thermal efficiency of their homes to meet challenging climate change targets? How should we encourage innovation in the field of renewable energy and increase supply of renewable energy in homes across Edinburgh? Fuel Poverty What would be the most effective way to eradicate fuel poverty? How can we convince owners to spend money on energy efficiency to reduce fuel poverty?

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

4

INDEPENDENT LIVING

4.1 The Scottish Government and the Council have both emphasised the importance of independent living – being able to live in the home of your own choice for as long as possible. People need good advice, at the right time and may need additional support to help them do this. 4.2 There are some groups who have a greater need for advice and support. The growing numbers of older people need to plan for their future needs to make sure that they are able to be as independent as possible. Those who become homeless often need temporary accommodation, advice and then support to get back on their feet. Others need help for a short period to learn or relearn the skills which are needed to stay in their own home. 4.3 The number of people who become homeless in the city has reduced despite the economic downturn. This is mainly because the Council has worked hard to provide advice and support to prevent homelessness, not just to deal with the issue once it happens. Despite this the level of homelessness is still very high. In 2002/03 1667 customers were housed after approaching the council for assistance. This figure increased to 2839 during 2009/10, an increase of 70% (Annual Homelessness Service Trends, 2010). In 2009/10, 61% of lets went to homeless people up from 48% in 2007/08. The economic downturn, welfare changes and removing the priority need distinction by 2012, so that everyone who is assessed as homeless is entitled to secure accommodation, will put further pressure on homelessness services. 4.4 The major shortage of housing in Edinburgh means that people will generally need to find accommodation in the private rented sector. Increasing demand in the private sector, changes to housing benefit and increasing rent levels in the private rental market will make this more difficult. 4.5 Services need to prevent people from losing their home, help people stay in their home and help people deal with any potential housing crisis. 4.6 Edinburgh’s population profile is changing. Life expectancy is increasing and the numbers of older people are increasing, both numerically and as a proportion of the population, as is the number of people with a physical disability. It is predicted that by 2018 the population of people aged 65 and over in Edinburgh will have increased by 17% over 10 years (GRO-Scotland 2010). 4.7 The ageing population will present issues in terms of provision of housing and support for people as they get older. However, an ageing population also presents many opportunities including potential for increased volunteering. Housing Support 4.8 Presently, the Council estimates that around 8,000 households receive housing support in a year. This includes visiting support in people’s own

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

homes and in specialist accommodation like hostels. It is estimated that the number of people requiring support will grow significantly over the next 10 years in Edinburgh. The increase will be from a number of factors including population growth, demographic changes, changes to welfare benefits and changes in the economy. 4.9 Changes to legislation could mean individuals and families have more choice about the way support is provided to them (such as the Self-directed Support (Scotland) Bill) and local authorities will have a duty to assess and ensure support is provided to people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, in line with the requirements of The Housing (Scotland) Act 2010. 4.10 Although demand for support is likely to increase, the available resources to fund services is likely to reduce. This means that different ways of providing advice and support will need to be considered. 4.11 Support can be used to help people live independently. This support falls into three main categories: • Advice and information – for example, help with benefit forms and arranging minor repairs. This could be provided as short term help on an ‘as required’ basis. This flexible approach could be provided by housing advice staff based in neighbourhoods. • Independent living skills development – for example, helping people move into a home that meets their needs and getting on with neighbours or learning household skills. This could be provided as regular support for a short time. This is aimed at helping people build the skills they need to maintain their home and become independent. Emotional support – for example, help to overcome loneliness. This informal emotional support could be provided through befriending or positive social networks.

•

4.12 A larger number of people will need advice to decide on the best housing option for them now and in the future. More people might also need support to become or remain independent in their chosen accommodation. This support can be provided alongside specialist services that can include personal care, assistive technology and support to address addictions. Housing support can help people in all tenures and across all particular needs groups. 4.13 It is widely recognised that people benefit greatly from informal support networks such as family, friends and the wider community. Making better use of existing community networks, volunteering opportunities and befriending services, could help people expand their informal support networks. Voluntary sector partners could be used to encourage and maximise volunteering opportunities and help with community capacity building.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

4.14 Information and advice will be a key element of the City Housing Strategy, including the need to find effective ways of helping people to plan better for their future, enabling people to make changes before a crisis point in their lives. This applies particularly to planning for old age, but also to older carers and people with disabilities whose circumstances may change over time. 4.15 In order to enable people to live independently in their own homes, services need to increasingly be: • Preventative e.g. information and advice, homeless prevention services • Enabling e.g. housing support, promotion of volunteering, befriending and informal support networks • Practical e.g. adaptations, Telecare / assistive technology 4.16 Providing support and skills for people to live independently and maximising the number of people who receive support within the context of increasing pressures on budgets will bring challenges but also provides an opportunity to look at more effective ways of providing housing support. This support needs to be flexible and has clearly defined client outcomes. Strategic Links 4.17 The focus is on helping people make choices that allow them to get the support and skills they need to live independently. This means working even more closely with key partners, such as the health sector. The link to other strategic plans needs to be strong while being clear on the services and outcomes which are directly the responsibility of Services for Communities. 4.18 The Council is developing a five year Commissioning Strategy covering ‘adult social care, homelessness and housing support and children and young people’s services’. The Council is also developing a 5-year Commissioning Plan for homeless people and those in housing need that embodies the principles of the commissioning strategy. 4.19 The Homelessness and Housing Support Commissioning Plan will direct three main commissioning workstreams: • • • Homelessness Accommodation Older Persons Visiting Support

Homelessness 4.20 While more people are approaching the Council for assistance fewer people are presenting as homeless. The percentage of people who receive housing advice and do not go on to present as homeless has increased from 42% in 2008/09, to 43% in 2009/10 substantially up from the position in 2007/8 when the figure was 34%. The number of homeless applicants being housed in the private rented sector has increased from 8.9% in 2007/08 to 11.7% in 17

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

2009/10. Given the severe shortage of supply in the social rented sector, the private rented sector is a primary housing option for homeless households. 4.21 Housing advice and preventative support have been instrumental in helping to reduce levels of homelessness. However, levels remain high and more needs to be done to reduce these further. 4.22 There is a need to ensure that housing advice provides tangible private sector options to households and that advice takes account of welfare changes. 4.23 The average length of stay in temporary accommodation appears to be increasing with the average stay being 73 nights for 2010/11 (April – November). This compares to approximately 62 nights for the same period last year. 4.24 Further strengthening housing advice, particularly in relation to the use of the private rented sector, reducing the length of stay in temporary accommodation, addressing the issue of repeat homelessness and increasing access to move on accommodation are key priorities. Older People 4.25 A draft Older People’s Housing & Support Strategy is being developed which will focus on helping older people stay in the home of their choice. It will also ensure existing housing is used in the most effective way and that services focus on improving a person’s quality of life to help them to plan for and deal with change. 4.26 As people age they are more likely to need higher levels of support and there will be an increased prevalence of people with greater support needs. According to the Office of Population Censuses and Surveys, disability prevalence rates, between the ages of 65 and 69 years, 28% of people need some kind of support, while for people aged over 85 years, 83% require support. Physical Housing Requirements 4.27 Although living independently is a key priority, some people will need specialist housing. This might be adapted housing or housing with on site support or a combination of both. 4.28 A high proportion of homes in Edinburgh are tenemental and this can present problems for people of all ages who need an accessible home. There is a need to give good advice to people to help them plan which housing is best for them now and in the future. This is particularly important as people get older where declining health is more predictable. 4.29 Only a small number of purpose built houses can be provided in the city each year. This means making better use of homes which are already adapted and making best use of funding for new adaptations.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

4.30 If most support can be individualised, provided in a person’s home and is based on need rather than location, people may not need to move from their existing home, retaining social and community links. 4.31 The use of technology to provide support has increased substantially in recent years and will continue to do so. Most of this technology can be used in most homes and this will contribute greatly to allowing people to stay in their own home. Independent Living - Questions Housing Support There will be a growing demand for support to help people live independently. How do we achieve this with diminishing resources? How can we stretch funding for housing support further so that more people can benefit from it? Should individuals be asked to pay more for support services where they can afford to do so, to maximise existing resources? Informal Support Networks How can we increase the use of volunteers, befriending and local community networks to support people live independently? What is the main challenge in making greater use of the voluntary sector to promote volunteering opportunities and help build community capacity? Information & Advice What are the best ways of ensuring access to information and advice? How do we engage people in hard to reach groups to help them to live independently? How do we give people the advice and the skills to live more independently for longer in their own home? How do we help people plan for future needs? Accommodation Should we be focusing our resources to help people live independently rather than in specialist supported accommodation? How do we make sure that people can move on from temporary accommodation as quickly as possible?

19

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

How can we get private sector landlords to be better at supporting tenants to live independently? What is the best way to ensure housing support services help people overcome crises and hold onto their home? Adaptations How can we improve management of the allocation of adapted homes to ensure they are let to those who need them most? Presently, Registered Social Landlords receive a grant to pay for adaptations whilst Council adaptations are funded through Council rents. Should Registered Social Landlords pay for adaptations through their own rental income?

20

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

5

Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy – Successes

5.1 The Council is required to develop a Local Housing Strategy (called the City Housing Strategy in Edinburgh) and submit it to the Scottish Government. The City Housing Strategy identifies the housing need and demand for the area and informs the development of the South East Scotland Strategic Development Plan (SESplan). 5.2 The Council published an Interim Housing Statement in May 2010 with an accompanying Databook. This provided context and information on demographic change, tenure patterns, housing supply and demand, and house condition. The next City Housing Strategy will consider the three key strategic themes of Supply and Access, Quality and Management, and Independent Living. 5.3 Although many challenges remain, much has been achieved in delivering the first City Housing Strategy. Some of the key achievements and notable successes are outlined below: 5.4 Supply and Access The Council has: a) Introduced the Council’s choice based letting system – Key to Choice in 2003 allowing applicants to be actively involved in choosing their next homes. 16 housing associations and co-operatives now use Key to Choice to let their homes giving access to over 90% of social rented homes in Edinburgh. b) Introduced a common housing register – EdIndex - in 2003 to allow applicants to complete just one application form to register with the Council and 20 registered social landlords covering over 90% of social rented homes. c) Introduced the first Private Sector Leasing (PSL) scheme in Scotland in 2005. The scheme now manages 1600 homes, which are used as temporary accommodation for homeless households. d) Obtained strategic control over development funding for affordable housing from 2004. This has supported the development of more than 3,000 homes, and approved a further 3,500 homes. e) Increased investment in affordable homes to a high of £46.5 million in 2009/10 – the largest Affordable Housing Investment Programme investment the city has ever received, up from £28.9 million received in 2004/5.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

f) Achieved an average grant to private finance ratio for affordable housing of 59:41 exceeding the Scottish Government’s target of 70:30. g) Developed the groundbreaking Affordable Housing Policy (AHP), introduced in 2003. All housing applications within the CEC local authority area containing 12 or more residential homes must now provide a 25% affordable housing contribution h) Delivered 576 homes through the Affordable Housing Policy. 568 homes were built using subsidy from the Affordable Housing Investment Programme and a small number of homes were discounted sale homes, provided without public subsidy. i) Developed the 21st Century Homes programme to deliver the first Council houses for a generation building up to 1,300 new homes for sale and rent. The first homes are expected to be complete by November 2011. j) Helped 1550 households access homeownership since 2005 through the Homestake and Lift schemes. k) Piloted a Mid Market Rent scheme in 2009 and a Council-backed shared equity scheme in 2010 in Craigmillar to help working households access affordable housing and promote other ‘intermediate’ tenures. l) Increased the supply of social and mid market rent by buying 160 unsold homes and a number of sites from developers during the economic downturn. This helped support the construction industry and the local economy through a difficult time. m) Signed up to the National Housing Trust, a new Scottish Government initiative to deliver more new affordable homes. This will provide around 600 new homes in Edinburgh. n) Set aside £5 million of Council Tax from empty and second homes in Edinburgh to support investment in new affordable housing. o) Commissioned the Letfirst service to help households at risk of homelessness find accommodation in the private rented sector. p) Published and regularly updated the Housing Advice and Information Strategy to promote accessible, quality and consistent advice across the city. q) Introduced a web-based Housing Options Guide in January 2004 to allow practitioners and the general public access to up-to-date and accurate housing information on-line.

22

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

r) Introduced the Edinburgh House Exchange with its 20 EdIndex partners allowing tenants to advertise their rented homes and to exchange their social rented tenancy for a more suitable one.

5.5 Quality and Management a) Invested £38m in 2010/11 in Council homes; installing modern kitchens and bathrooms, electrical rewiring, energy efficient central heating systems, and new windows and doors to make homes more safe and secure. b) Increased the number of homes meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard from 14% in 2007 to 53% in 2010. c) The Council’s Housing Management service was awarded an ‘A’ Grade and the Asset Management and Repairs service received a ‘B’ Grade by the Scottish Housing Regulator. This sits alongside the ‘A’ Grade already gained for Homelessness service giving the Council an overall ‘AAB’, the best result of any local authority in Scotland. d) Undertaken major regeneration programmes in Gracemount, North Sighthill and Pennywell & Muirhouse creating a blueprint for new, mixed tenure sustainable communities. e) Improved the quality of neighbourhoods across the city by delivering over 300 projects and investing £12 million. f) Delivered successive yearly reductions in tenant arrears. g) Provided a Tenement Management Scheme to help homeowners organise common repairs and regular maintenance of tenements resulting in an additional investment of approximately £1.4million. h) Established the first Scheme of Assistance in Scotland providing a wide range of information and assistance for homeowners on repairing and maintaining their homes. i) Established Edinburgh Landlord Accreditation with Scottish Association of Landlords to raise standards and recognise good practice in the private rented market in Edinburgh. The success of this scheme was instrumental in the Scottish Government’s decision to set up the national accreditation scheme, Landlord Accreditation Scotland. j) Taken a proactive and innovative approach to working with private landlords, letting agents and tenants, raising awareness of rights and responsibilities, and offering advice, information and bespoke training.

23

Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

k) Implemented and managed a robust HMO licensing system, covering almost 5,000 homes in the city, to ensuring a consistent level of quality across this sector. l) Invested £2.5 million in smaller scale urban centres projects to make a significant contribution to the economic vitality of town, local and neighbourhood centres. m) Rolled out the Home Insulation Scheme from October 2009. Since then around 14,500 homes have had a home energy check resulting in an estimated saving of £2 million in lifetime fuel bills and 11,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. n) Introduced Edinburgh Standards for Housing and Edinburgh Standards for Sustainable Building to help create high quality, successful and sustainable residential developments and neighbourhoods.

5.6 Independent Living a) Prevented homelessness by the use of good housing advice. In 2009/10, an average of 43% of cases was resolved without resorting to homelessness, up from 34% in 2007/08. b) Commissioned a new preventative housing support service to help people avoid homelessness. c) Commissioned new homelessness and housing advice services providing clearer roles for commissioned partners and saving almost £1million. d) Strengthened good quality and consistent housing advice through Edinburgh’s Housing Advice and Information Strategy e) Used the Edinburgh Housing Advice and Homelessness Network to allow a range of statutory and voluntary organisations to work together to communicate ideas and share examples of best practice. f) Developed the Communities of Practice network where people from different organisations can communicate and share best practice. g) Increased access to private sector homes through schemes such as Private Sector Leasing and Letfirst. h) The number of evictions carried out against tenants by the Council has reduced by 24% from 230 in 2007/08 to 175 in 2009/10.

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Appendix 1 – Meeting the Challenges of Edinburgh’s City Housing Strategy: A Consultation Paper Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

i) Commissioned the Edinburgh Housing Advice Partnership (EHAP) to offer advice and representation for tenants of all sectors at Edinburgh Sheriff court. j) Increased use of technology such as Telecare to help people remain independent in their own home for longer and prevent unnecessary hospital admission. k) Launched the Telecare Falls Initiative in partnership with NHS Lothian to provide 300 vulnerable people with Telecare packages preventing falls and ultimately hospital admission. l) Increased advice on adaptations, Telecare or home support to help people stay in their own home. m) Worked with NHS Lothian to prepare vulnerable patients for discharge from hospital. n) Worked with victims of domestic abuse to offer improved home security and technology to help people remain in their homes instead of moving out, where it is safe to do so. This maintains social networks, preventing unnecessary upheaval and avoids the potential social isolation of moving.

25

Appendix 2 – City Housing Strategy Databook Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

City Housing Strategy
Databook – January 2011

Introduction
Welcome to the City Housing Strategy Databook 2011. The purpose of the Databook is to provide some context to the City Housing Strategy Consultation Document– to give a picture of the kind of pressures and challenges that the City Housing Strategy needs to address. The Databook provides information on demographic change, tenure patterns, housing supply and demand, and house condition. For further information, please contact the Strategy Team at [email protected]

1

1

Edinburgh’s population is expected to increase at a faster rate than the Scottish average. The highest percentage increase will be amongst the 75+ age group.
Projected Percentage Change of Population 2008 to 2033 100.0% 80.0% 60.0% 40.0% 20.0% 0.0% -20.0%
All Ages 0-15 16-29 30-49 50-64 65-74 75+

Scotland Edinburgh

The number of people in Edinburgh is projected to increase by 16.8% from 471,650 in 2008 to 550,932 in 2033. The Scottish population is projected to increase by 7.3% over the same period. In Edinburgh the number of people in all age groups, except the 16-29 years old, are projected to increase.

Source: General Register Office for Scotland (GROS)

2

The number of households in Edinburgh is projected to increase at a faster rate than any other Scottish city.
Projected Percentage Change of Number of Households 2006 to 2033
40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Scotland Aberdeen Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow

Edinburgh is projected to be the fastest growing Scottish city. The number of households is projected to increase by 35% from 217,650 in 2008 to 293,150 in 2033. During the same period the number of households in Glasgow – the largest Scottish city – is projected to increase by 19% from 281,190 to 334,100.

An increased number of households indicate a higher demand for housing. Source: General Register Office for Scotland (GROS)

2

3

Edinburgh’s households have the highest gross disposable income when compared to neighbouring local authorities.
Gross Disposable Household Income Per Head (2008)
20000 16000 12000 8000 4000 0

In 2008, Edinburgh households had an average gross disposable income of £16,747. The purchasing power of households in Edinburgh is higher than that of its neighbouring local authorities. This is one of the reasons for higher house prices in the city. It also explains why many Edinburgh households migrate to neighbouring local authorities for affordable housing.

Source: Office of National Statistics

4

Jobseeker’s Allowance claimants in Edinburgh have nearly doubled in the last 3 years, although there is sign of this levelling off.
Number of Jobseeker's Allowance Claimants
Thousands
14 12 10 4.0 8 3.0 6 2.0 4 2 0 Mar 08 Jun 08 Sep 08 Dec 08 Mar 09 Jun 09 Sep 09 Dec 09 Mar 10 Jun 10 Sep 10 Dec 10 1.0 0.0 Edinburgh Total claimants Edinburgh % of w orking age pop 5.0 Scotland % of w orking age pop 6.0

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance has increased from 5,546 in March 2008 to 10,232 in December 2010. The number of claimants in Edinburgh as a proportion of the working age population follows the same pattern as the Scottish average, whilst at a lower rate.

Source: NOMIS

3

5

Since 2005/06, fewer than 2,000 new homes were started each year in Edinburgh.
Housing Starts (All Tenures) 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10
Aberdeen Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow

There were fewer than 2,000 new housing starts in Edinburgh every year since 2005/06. This has decreased year-on year over the last 3 years. For the first time since 2004/05 Edinburgh had more new housing starts than in Glasgow in 2009/10.

Source: Housing Statistics for Scotland

6

Since 2005/06 fewer than 2,000 new homes were completed each year in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Housing Completions (All Tenures)
4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

There were 1,118 new house completions in Edinburgh during 2009/10. This is equivalent to a 37% reduction from the previous year or a 69% reduction from 2004/05. Lack of new housing supply will continue to increase the demand in future years.

Source: Housing Statistics for Scotland

4

7

Edinburgh will need approximately 3,600 new homes (both affordable and market homes) every year for the next 10 years.
Projected Housing Need and Demand
4500 Market Housing 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 Af f ordable Housing

The South East Scotland Housing Need and Demand Assessment projects that Edinburgh will require and 2,000 private market homes every year for the next 10 years. It assumes those households currently in existing need will be resolved within 10 years. Thereafter it is projected that 2,800 new homes will be required every year.

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

8

Private finance invested into affordable housing projects has increased substantially over the last 3 years.
Investment on Affordable Housing
100

80

(£ million)

60

40

Since 2004/05 nearly £400 million has been invested in affordable housing. In addition to the £236 million from public funds (Housing Association Grant – HAG, Council Tax Discount Fund, City Growth Fund, etc.), there was over £160 million in private finance invested in affordable housing projects.

20

0 2004/05 HAG (Public) Other Public Funds Other Private Finance 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

CT discount Fund (Public) Private Finance from RSLs Sales Income (Private)

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

5

9

2009/10 saw record levels invested in affordable housing, however government funding is to reduce significantly in future years.
In 2009/10 Edinburgh experienced record levels of affordable housing investment since the management of the AHIP was transferred to the Council in July 2004. There were 580 new affordable homes completed, 208 homes rehabilitated in Moredun/Hyvots and 676 homes approved. The year start saw AHIP funding for 2010/11 reduced to £36.1 million. 392 homes have been approved with no further approval expected this year and just over 580 homes are expected to be completed in 2010/11. The AHIP funding mechanism is undergoing a significant change and approvals and completions targets for 2011/12 is subject to change following confirmation from the Scottish Government.

AHIP Completions and Approvals

900 Completions 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Approvals

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

10

The amount of affordable housing delivered through the Affordable Housing Policy has increased.
Subsidised Housing Completed through AHP

300 250 200 150 100 50 0 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

The AHP now requires 25% of private housing developments, with 12 homes or more, to be used for affordable housing. There has been a steady increase in affordable housing completions (with subsidies from Affordable Housing Investment Programme) from 51 homes in 2006/07 to 264 homes in 2009/10.

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

6

11

The Council has invested more than £215 million in maintaining and improving its housing stock over the last 4 years.
Total Property Maintenance and Improvement Expenditure

60

As well as building new homes, the Council has also spent around £50 million each year maintaining and improving its own stock. This includes daily repairs as well as capital programmes such as kitchens and bathrooms, windows replacements, as well as, improvement projects and multistorey block improvement projects.

50

40 (£ million)

30

20

10

0 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

12

Owner occupiers remain the largest tenure in Edinburgh, even with a small decrease in recent years.
Edinburgh Tenure Change
100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% 1991 Census 2001 Census 2001/02 SHS 2003/04 SHS 2005/06 SHS 2007/08 SHS

The owner occupied sector remains the major tenure for households in Edinburgh. The private rented sector has rapidly increased from less than 9% in 1991 (Census data) to 19% in 2007/08 (Scottish Household Survey). The size of social rented sector has remained stable since the 2001 Census. There has been a reduction in Council housing, but an increase in housing association homes.

Owner occupied

Social rented

Private rented

Other or rent free

Source: Census 1991, Census 2001, and Scottish Household Survey (SHS)

7

13

Edinburgh has a much higher proportion of flats than houses compared to other neighbouring local authorities.
Housing Types in the Lothians (2007/08)

100%

Edinburgh East Lothian
80%

Midlothian West Lothian

Only 41% of the homes in Edinburgh are houses or bungalows, compared to 80% of dwellings in the other Lothian local authorities. About 58% of homes in Edinburgh are flats. This poses significant challenges with regards the organization of communal repairs and maintenance.

60%

40%

20%

0%
Ho use o r bungalo w Flat (tenement / 4inBlo ck) Flat (high rise with 5+ levels) Other

Source: Scottish Household Survey 2007/08

14

Edinburgh has less vacant homes than the Scottish average.
Vacant Dwellings and Second Homes 2009

7.0% Scotland 6.0% 5.0% 4.0% 3.0% 2.0% 1.0% 0.0% Vacant dw ellings Second homes Aberdeen Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow

2.4% of Edinburgh’s homes were vacant in 2009, the same percentage as 2008. The Scottish average has increased from 2.8% in 2008 to 2.9% in 2009. Edinburgh has the second lowest percentage of vacant homes amongst the 4 Scottish Cities. Edinburgh has a relatively high percentage of second homes equally 2.0% of the housing stock.

Source: General Register Office for Scotland

8

15

Edinburgh has the highest median house price in the Lothian area in 2007.
Median House Price

£175,000

City of Edinburgh
£150,000 £125,000 £100,000 £75,000 £50,000 £25,000 £0

East Lothian Midlothian West Lothian

All areas have experienced sharp increases in house prices of more than 170% between 1997 and 2007. Although Edinburgh has the highest median house price in the Lothian area, East Lothian had the greatest rate of increase between 1997 and 2007, especially between 2002 and 2007.

1997

2002

2007

Source: Registers of Scotland

16

The average house price in Edinburgh remains high and unaffordable for many working households.
Average House Price in Edinburgh

250,000 225,000 200,000 175,000 150,000 125,000 100,000 75,000 50,000

Despite the economic downturn, the average house price in Edinburgh remains high and unaffordable to many working households. The average house price for a 2bedroom property in 2010 was £181,000, 20% higher than in 2005.

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

average ESPC house price for all property

average ESPC house price for 2 bed

Source: ESPC

9

17

The number of Edinburgh homes sold to Edinburgh residents has decreased steadily since 1997.
Origin of Edinburgh House Buyers (2007)
100%

80%

Nearly 79% of homes in Edinburgh were sold to residents in Edinburgh in 1997. This decreased to 76% in 2002 and 73% in 2007. At the same time, there has been a marked increase of homes sold to people from non-neighbouring local authorities (“Other in Scotland” and “Outside Scotland”). This indicates that more Edinburgh residents are buying a new home outside Edinburgh, whilst a greater number of people from other parts of the country/world are attracted to the housing market in Edinburgh.

60%

40%

Outside Scotland Other in Scotland Scottish Borders Fife, Perth & Kinross Lothian Edinburgh

20%

0% 1997 2002 2007

Source: Registers of Scotland

18

Job vacancies advertised in Edinburgh Job Centres have significantly decreased over the last two years. This trend has reversed slightly in recent months.
Edinburgh Vacancies

6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 Jun 07 Dec 07 Jun 08 Dec 08 Jun 09 Dec 09 Jun 10 Dec 10

The number of vacancies advertised in Edinburgh job centres halved since the end of 2008 as the impact of credit crunch gradually became apparent.

Source: NOMIS

10

19

Average rent of all private lets has increased by 12% between the fourth quarter of 2007 and the same quarter in 2010.
The rent levels in private lets remained relatively stable between 2007 and 2009, but they have shown an upward trend in 2010. The average rent for all sizes of private rented homes in 2010 quarter 4 was £772 per month. First time buyers who would have bought their own homes can no longer afford to do so due to the tighter lending controls exercised by the banks. This has increased the demand on the private rented sectors and increased rent levels.

Rent Levels for Private Renting (6 months rolling average)
1500 1350 1200 1050 900 750 600 450 2007 2008 2008 2008 2008 2009 2009 2009 2009 2010 2010 2010 2010 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

All

1 bed

2 bed

3 bed

4 bed

Source: Citylets

20

Right to Buy (RTB) sales to sitting Council tenants have decreased significantly in the last 6 years.
Right to Buy Sales to Sitting Council Tenants

600 500 400 300 200 100 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

There were only 81 RTB sales to sitting Council tenants in 2009-10, compared to 515 sales in 2004-05. This is partly due to the less generous discounts under the modernised terms of RTB. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2010 will end RTB for all new social rented tenants and for all new affordable housing.

Source: Housing Statistics for Scotland

11

21

RSL house numbers have increased gradually since 2005, whilst the number of Council homes has reduced.
Social Rented Housing in Edinburgh

40000 35000 30000 25000 20000 15000 10000 Council Normal Letting Stocks RSL Self Contained Units Total Social Rented 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Although the number of RSL homes for rent has been increasing over the last 6 years, the number of new homes hasn’t made up for the loss of Council homes. This in turn exacerbates the imbalance between the supply and demand of affordable housing.

Source: Housing Statistics for Scotland and Scottish Housing Regulator

22

In 2010 the average bid for a Council home was 140.
Average Bids per Council Property

150 125 100 75 50 25 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

There has been a steady increase in average bids received for Council homes since EH – Your Key to Choice was introduced. The small reduction in the number of bids received by Council homes in 2009 and 2010 was due to the expansion of Key to Choice, which is now used by 16 partner RSLs. Applicants now have more homes to choose from every week but still continue to have three bids / choices each week.

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

12

23

Social lets in Edinburgh decreased from 4,500 to 3,600 between 2006/07 and 2009/10.
Number of Social Lets in Edinburgh

5,000
RSL Re-Lets

4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 2006/07 2007/08

Council Permanent Lets

There has been a sharp decrease in permanent Council lets from just over 3,000 in 2006/07 to fewer than 2,000 in 2009/10. This is partly due to the loss of Council stock through RTB sales and demolition for area regeneration. The number of RSL re-lets increased slightly from 1,505 to 1,662 over the same period.

2008/09

2009/10

Source: Housing Statistics for Scotland and Scottish Housing Regulator

24

AHIP supported more new intermediate housing, including lowcost homeownership such as new supply shared equity (LIFT) and Mid Market Rent (MMR).
Intermediate Housing Supported by AHIP

250
Completions

The AHIP provided 273 low cost homeownership homes in 2008/09 and 2009/10. Mid market rent development became eligible for AHIP funding in 2009/10 resulting in 49 homes being approved. In addition to these new affordable homes, the Open Market Shared Equity Scheme also helped to provide 251 homes for low cost ownership in 2009/10.

200

Approvals

150

100

50

0 2008/09 2009/10

Source: City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Government

13

25

Delivering a range of different affordable homes plays an increasing role in meeting housing need and demand in the city.
Since the recession, low cost home ownership (LCHO) and Mid Market Rent homes have helped meet a growing demand for housing for those people who cannot get a mortgage.

Affordable Housing Tenures Approved through AHIP
800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2006/07 2007/08 HA Rent 2008/09 LCHO MMR 2009/10

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

26

The supply of new affordable homes will be increased through a range of funding streams and delivery models.
Government funding through the Affordable Housing Investment Programme (AHIP) will be reduced considerably in the coming years due to the budget pressures across the UK and in Scotland.

Funding Streams for New Affordable Housing (2011/16 SHIP Tender Approval)
800 700 600 500

Alternative funding streams and innovative delivery mechanisms will 300 be required to increase the supply 200 of new affordable housing. This will 100 include the Council’s own 21st 0 Century Homes Programme, the 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 National Housing Trust Initiative and the new rental guaranteed AHIP 21st Century Homes NHT Unsubsidised MMR schemes. Source: City of Edinburgh Council Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2011/16
400

14

27

Homelessness applications in Edinburgh have reduced since 2003/04.
The number of homelessness applications in Edinburgh has decreased from 5,485 in 2003/04 to 4,781 in 2009/10. The latest Homelessness Strategy focuses on preventing homelessness and helping homeless households sustain their tenancies once they have been re-housed. Glasgow saw a reduction in homelessness applications until 2007/08; this has since increased over the last two years. Aberdeen and Dundee both saw a decrease in applications in 2009/10 after years of upward trend.

Homelessness Applications
14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 200910 Aberdeen Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow

Source: Scottish Government Homelessness Data

28

Single person and single parent households accounted for nearly 90% of the homeless applications.
Homelessness Households Compostions

80%

60%

40%

Homelessness applications from single person households have decreased from 67% in 2005/06 to 64% in 2009/10, while applications from single parent households has increased from 21% to 25% over the same period. The majority of homeless households have only one adult; more support is required for these households to combat possible isolation and lack of family support.

20%

0% 2005/06 Single person Couple w ithout children Other household w ithout children 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

Single parent Couple w ith children Other household w ith children

Source: Scottish Government Homelessness Data

15

29

Homeless households sleeping rough the night before homelessness presentation has decreased.
Households Slept Rough the Night Before Homelessness Presentation

1000

The number of households who sleeping rough the night before presenting as homeless have reduced from over 900 in 2004/05 to 468 in 2009/10. The percentage of homelessness presentations from households who had slept rough the night before reduced from 18% in 2004/05 to 10% in 2009/10.

800

600

400

200 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

Source: Scottish Government Homelessness Data

30

The number of people who have slept rough in the three months before approaching Council commissioned services has decreased since 2007/08.
Number of Users Slept Rough in the 3 Months Before Approaching Support Services

1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

The Council monitors commissioned housing support services and the outcomes of the service users through the ECCO database. The ECCO database found that the number of service users who have slept rough in the three months before approaching one of the commissioned services have reduced from over 1,000 in 2007/08 to around 700 in 2009/10.

Source: City of Edinburgh Council (ECCO)

16

31

Homeless or threatened with homeless cases assessed as being in priority need increased steadily between 2004/05 and 2007/08 but has then levelled off.
Percentage of Homeless Cases Assessed as in Priority Need

90 Scotland 85 80 75 70 65 60 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 Edinburgh

82% of homeless or threatened with homeless cases in Edinburgh were assessed as in priority need in 2009/10. The Scottish average was 85%, up from 75% in 2004/05. By 2012 all local authorities will have a statutory duty to re-house all households who are unintentionally homeless or threatened with homelessness.

Source: Scottish Government Homelessness Data

32

Repeat homelessness applications have reduced from 12% in 2004/05 to 9% in 2009/10.
Percentage of Repeat Homelessness (within previous 12 months)

14 2004/05 12 10 8 2005/06 2006/07 2008/09 2009/10

Repeat homelessness has reduced from 12% to 9% between 2004/05 and 2009/10, while the Scottish average has reduced from 8% to 6% over the same period.

Edinburgh had the highest level of repeat homelessness in 2009/10 6 when compared with other cities. One contributing factor could be 4 that people are using homelessness 2 as an access route to permanent housing when other options could 0 Scotland Aberdeen Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow be more suitable. Focus is being placed on improving advice and information to ensure all housing options are explored. Source: Scottish Government of Homelessness Data

17

33

Households in temporary accommodation have reduced slightly from 691 on 31 March 2008 to 661 on 31 March 2010.
Number of Households in Different Types of Temporary Accommodation

There has been a slight decrease of number of households in temporary accommodation on 31 March 2010. The Council is developing a homelessness accommodation strategy, which aims to minimise the time people spent in temporary accommodation and to move people into settled accommodation, with support where appropriate, as soon as possible.

800
Bed & Breakf ast

700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

Social sector

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Source: Scottish Government Homelessness Data

34

35% of all Edinburgh’s homes achieved the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) in 2007/09, compared to 26% in 2004/07.
SHQS 2004 - 09

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 2004/07 2005/08 2007/09 2004/07 2005/08 2007/09

The percentage of Edinburgh homes achieving Scottish Housing Quality Standard has increased from 26% in 2004/07 to 35% in 2007/09. The Scottish average has also increased from 28% to 35% during the same period.

Scotland Pass

Edinburgh Fail

Source: Scottish House Condition Survey 2004/07, 2005/08 and 2007/09

18

35

Council homes achieving the SHQS have increased from 14% in 2007 to 53% in 2010.
SHQS Pass Rate

60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 2007 2008 2009 2010

All homes in the social sector are required to achieve the SHQS by 2015. The Council has invested an average of £50 million every year on repairs and maintenance of its homes so that they are maintained to a high quality. The significant increase in percentage of homes achieving the SHQS between 2009 and 2010 was due to a focus on energy efficiency in Council homes.

Source: City of Edinburgh Council

36

Edinburgh homes with an adaptation have increased from 16% in 2004/07 to 25% in 2007/09.
Percentage of Homes with Adaptation

30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Edinburgh 2004/07 2005/08 Scotland 2007/09

The percentage of Edinburgh homes with one or more adaptations has increased from 16% to 25% between 2004/07 and has only increased from 18% to 20% over the same period. More still needs to be done to make This will make it easier for people to stay in their own homes for as long as they wish and avoid moving due to mobility issues.

Source: Scottish House Condition Survey 2004/07, 2005/08 and 2007/09

19

37

Households in Edinburgh experiencing fuel poverty have increased from 19% to 22% between 2004/07 and 2007/09.
Fuel Poverty in Edinburgh
100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 2004/07 Fuel Poor 2005/08 Not Fuel Poor 2007/09 Unobtainable

The percentage of Edinburgh households experiencing fuel poverty increased by 3% to 22% between 2004/07 and 2007/09. The 22% was comprised of 17% fuel poor households – spending between 10 and 20% of their income on fuel, and 5% extreme fuel poor households – spending over 20% of their income on fuel.

Source: Scottish House Condition Survey 2004/07, 2005/08 and 2007/09

38

69% of private sector homes and 82% of social sector homes in Edinburgh achieved a National Home Energy Rating (NHER) between 6 and 10.
NHER 2007/09 by Tenure

100

The SHQS sets a minimum NHER rating of 5 or above for all homes. Across the Scottish Cities, the public sector has a higher percentage of homes achieving NHER of 6-10 than that of the private sector.

80

60

40

20

0 Private Private Private Private Private Public Public Public Public Public

Scotland

Aberdeen

Dundee 6-10 0-5

Edinburgh

Glasgow

Source: Scottish House Condition Survey 2007/09

20

39

Fuel poor households are concentrated in Tollcross, Gorgie/Dalry and North Edinburgh.

The most fuel poor households in Edinburgh usually live in tenement flats. The Council has been successful in applying funding through the Home Insulation Scheme (HIS) and Universal Home Insulation (UHIS) to help improve the insulation of homes in Edinburgh. In 2010/11, the Council received £510,000 from UHIS to improve the energy efficiency of the tenements around the Tollcross / Fountainbridge area. Source: City of Edinburgh Council

21

Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement 2011

Context: The Homelessness Strategy for Edinburgh: 2008- 2012 was launched in April 2008 following a two-year period of consultation with the voluntary sector organisation and user groups. It was set out as a five year strategy covering 2008-2012 and replaced the previous five year Homelessness Strategy 2002-2007. In order to be effective the Strategy needs to be regularly reviewed. The Strategy must ensure it can respond accordingly to the changing economic, financial and political environment and meets the needs of our customers. This position statement reviews the policy environment, the performance to date for 2010 and progress against actions. It then outlines the key actions for 2011. These have been developed in consultation with providers and other stakeholders through the Homelessness Planning Group (HPG). Policy environment • • • • • • • Severe lack of housing supply, particularly affordable housing The abolition of priority need by 2012 New statutory duty to provide support for homeless households Implementation of the Housing Advice and Information Strategy Development of a Homeless Accommodation Strategy Significant changes in welfare and housing benefit payments Successful preventative approach to homelessness through advice and support

1

Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Economic climate • • • • • Reduced public sector budgets Risks of increased unemployment Increased difficulty in accessing home ownership Potential increases in home repossession The UK Government seeking to deliver 10% savings on the Housing Benefit budget by 2014.

Development of the Annual Position Statement: This Annual Position Statement has been developed through consultation with the HPG. Priorities are based on the strategic aims of the Homelessness Strategy, performance and trend information for the last financial year and the first half of the current financial year. This work has confirmed that the key strategic aims continue to be appropriate. The key strategic aims of the Homelessness Strategy are: • Preventing homelessness • Finding a home • Keeping a home These strategic aims remain the same and will help us achieve best outcomes for those in housing need in Edinburgh. Actions Since Last Year Over the last year a number of measures have been introduced which were designed to support and take forward the homelessness strategic key outcomes. These are: • Implementation and monitoring of the section 11 requirements of the Homelessness (Scotland) Act 2003 • Implementation of the Housing Advice and Information Strategy

2

Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

• • • • • •

Establishment of a Housing Options Hub in partnership with the Scottish Government Re-commissioning of the PSL contract Development of the Homeless Accommodation Strategy Establishment of a working group to take forward actions to help meet the 2012 target Improvement in outcomes for those receiving housing advice, support and accommodation across a range of indicators Continued partnership working has ensured commissioned outputs adequately reflect the aims of the Homelessness Strategy.

In addition the Homelessness Accommodation Commissioning Plan is being developed to ensure that accommodation provision relates to the delivery of key outcomes identified in the Homeless Strategy. Performance Prevention The percentage of people who receive housing advice and do not go on to present as homeless continues to increase from almost 42% last year to 43% this year. This is a significant rise from 2007/08 when the figure was 34%. While homeless presentations are slowly decreasing, more people are approaching the council for assistance. Housing advice is key to homeless prevention. The new commissioned services have ensured an additional 2100 have received advice, 900 of which were threatened with eviction or repossession. One of the priorities for this year is to ensure that relevant housing advice is given at the earliest possible time. The implementation of the Housing Advice and Information Strategy 2009-2012 should ensure housing advice continues to increase through mainstream services. Finding a home The percentage of homelessness applicants being housed in the private rented sector has increased from just 8.9% in 2007/08 to 10.5% in 2008/9 and to 11.7% in 2009/10. This is in line with the objective that the private rented sector becomes a primary

3

Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

housing option for homeless households. However, given the severe shortage of supply in the social rented sector this needs to increase much more substantially. The percentage of homeless people being housed in Council properties has decreased slightly. However, this is the result of the lack of social housing available. An increasing number of people will need to be housed in the private sector. A number of significant changes will be made to the Department of Work and Pensions payments during the next few years. This will simplify the system and increase incentives to work. Many client groups will be effected by the changes. In particular, those under 35 years in the private sector will receive housing benefit based on the cost of sharing. Housing benefit will also be reduced for those who have been on Job Seekers Allowance for more than 12 months. This increases the importance of accurate advice on all options. Households will have to consider a variety of solutions to housing need including different tenure options and sharing accommodation. We continue to seek ways to avoid using B&B, however the nights used has remained broadly the same as people are spending more time in temporary accommodation. This is due to increasing average case lengths (108 days in 2006/07 to 174 days in 2009/10) as a result of decreasing numbers of permanent accommodation.

Keeping a home The percentage of people presenting as homeless within the last 5 years has decreased from last year but we still have some way to go to meet our target. A sample audit showed the vast majority of repeat presentations are due to people presenting as homeless then finding their own solution to their housing crisis, for example moving in with friends or family. If they later return to the Council because out of a breakdown in accommodation, this is recorded as a repeat homeless case. One of the main priorities this year is to ensure we improve employability outcomes. Employability can help to sustain accommodation and widen housing options. It will also be vitally important given the welfare changes outlined. While the percentage of unemployed homeless people moving into employment, training, volunteering or education has increased slightly from last year from 16% to18% we have raised our target to 30% to reflect the need to improve this considerably.

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

ECCO shows that the total number of people moving into and towards employment (homeless and non-homeless cases) has increased by 51% in the first quarter of 2010/11, with 1,145 people this year compared to 754 people the same time last year. Key Performance Trends Preventing Homelessness Key Performance Measures Performance Target 2008/9 2009/10 33.4% 17.3% 39% 15% Performance Target 2009/10 2010/11 41.8% 17.2% 45% 15% Performance 2010/11 (to Oct 2010) 43.2% 18% Long term target (2012) 50% 0%

% of housing advice cases who do not go on to present as homeless % of non-priority assessment decisions as a homeless assessment outcome

Finding a Home Key Performance Measures Performance 2008/09 Target 2009/10 Performance Target 2009/10 2010 2011 Performance 2010/11 (April to September 2010) 12.5% Long term target (2012)

% of homelessness assessments where the housing outcome is housed in the private rented sector % of homelessness assessments where the housing outcome is housed

10.5%

10%

11.7%

12%

12.5%

17.2%

17%

21.8%

25%

21.4%

30%

5

Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Key Performance Measures

Performance 2008/09

Target 2009/10

Performance Target 2009/10 2010 2011

Performance Long term 2010/11 target (2012) (April to September 2010)

in an RSL tenancy

% of people in Private Sector Leasing housing who move onto a new home in the private rented sector Average number of households in B&B accommodation

66%

66%

15.5%

50%

313

300

304

200

New provider currently developing a monitoring mechanism 307

70%

150

Keeping a Home Key Performance Measures Performance 2007/08 30% 15% Performance 2008/09 30.6% 16% Target 2009/10 18% 25% Performance Long term 2009/10 target (2012) 23.7% 10% 18% 30%

% of people presenting as homeless who have been homeless in the last 5 years. % of homeless people who are unemployed who move into employment, training, volunteering or education

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Other Key Trends to Consider 1) The average length of stay in temporary accommodation and increased to 75 days in 2009/10. This compares to 67 days in 2007/08.The fact that people are staying longer in temporary accommodation confirms there is a lack of appropriate move on accommodation. 2) Of the 4,768 current homeless clients, 3,051 are single people of which 1,880 (39% of all current cases) are under the age of 35 years. 3) Of the 4,768 current homeless clients, 1196 (25%) are single parents and 206 (4.3%) are couples with children. 4) The overall number of rough sleepers continues to fall as Council services prioritise the provision of accommodation.

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Priorities for 2011 – 2012 The key priority for the Council in 2011-12 is to take actions which will assist it to meet the obligations of the 2012 target when all unintentionally homeless people will be entitled to accommodation. The Council will not meet this obligation by using its own stock or that of RSLs. The actions set out are essential to help us prepare for the 2012 target. These primarily focus on increasing access to move on accommodation, further developments in housing advice and reducing length of stay in temporary accommodation. The HPG have identified priorities for 2010/11 as: - Further increase access to the private rented sector: there is an urgent need to increase access to the private rented sector. This is because of the shortage of supply, which in turn results in an increased length of stay in temporary accommodation. - Strengthen housing advice particularly in relation to use of the private sector and welfare changes: There is a need to ensure that housing advice provides tangible private sector options to households. Advice also needs to be tailored to take account of welfare changes. - Continue effective prevention of homelessness and repeat homelessness: housing advice and preventative support has been instrumental in helping to reduce levels of homelessness, this needs to be continued and maximised. - Develop commissioning plans for homelessness and housing support: there is a need to ensure that there is a consistent strategy for housing support, advice and accommodation services and a long term plan for commissioning. - Develop the Project Group for 2012: This group will seek to ensure we are on target for 2012 and advise on any further actions required.

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Action Plan 2011-2012 Outcome 1 - Preventing homelessness wherever possible so that no one need lose their home Action Ensure Council and commissioned housing advice and support services address welfare reform changes Timescale June 2011 Owner Carol Porter Links Commissioned prevention and advice services, other advice services, employability services, TAP. Commissioned services, S&I, H&SC (Gillian Crosby?) Measure Revise advice processes by June 2011 Status Working group considering impacts of welfare reform

Develop a targeted approach June 2011 to meeting the accommodation and support needs of people with chaotic lifestyles and complex needs.

Gavin Snape & Yvonne McWhirr, A, H&S

.

Project to be started

Outcome 2 - Finding a home with a good private landlord is the primary housing option for homeless people Action Increase advice and support to take up accommodation in the private rented sector Timescale Ongoing from April 2010 Owner Carol Porter Links Commissioned advice and prevention services, PSL, Letfirst, Letwise, Private Landlords, TAP Measure Increased numbers accessing private rented sector Status Ongoing

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Action Develop (or extend existing) schemes to increase the number of private rented sector properties available to those who are homeless or potentially homeless Develop homelessness accommodation commissioning plan (to include increasing turnover in temporary accommodation, examining options for shared accommodation) Review role of mid market rent and extent to which it could be a housing option for homeless households.

Timescale Establish by July 2010.

Owner Sarah Burns, HPS

Links Letwise, Revenues and Benefits, Letfirst, private landlords,PSL

Measure Report with recommendations by May 2011

Status Project group already established.

From August 2010

Geoff Brown, S&I

Accommodation providers, support providers, Letfirst, PSL, potential providers, TAP, H&SC, Children and Families A,H&S, S&I, Neighbourhoods, RSLs

Commissioning Plan

Project Group established

February 2011

Jennifer Hunter

Policy discussion regarding role of MMR to take place, followed by inclusion in the CEC Allocations Review if agreed that MMR should be used as housing option for homeless households.

Ongoing

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Outcome 3 - People are supported to keep their home so they need not become homeless again Action Develop commissioning plan for housing support and homelessness Timescale May 2011 Owner Bernie Giles Links Commissioned services, internal services, A,H&S, providers, other stakeholders Measure Plan to be produced by autumn 2011 Status Project team established

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Analysis of progress on actions in the last statement Strategic Outcome: Preventing Homelessness 1. Outcome: No-one becomes homeless as a result of being threatened with repossession

Action:

Implementation of the section 11 requirements of the Homelessness (Scotland) Act 2003

Evaluation: % of people who do not present as homeless as a result of repossession Analysis: Last year (01/04/09 -21/03/10) 1% of all homeless presentations were due to ‘mortgage default’. This has remained the same since 2007/08.

2. Outcome:

Increased awareness through services whose primary function is not to deal with homelessness to recognise potential homelessness triggers at the earliest stage. Implementation of the vulnerability indicators checklist and circulation of the Housing Options Guide to external agencies. % of housing advice cases who do not go on to present as homeless. On average 42% of housing advice cases (Council) do not go on to

Action:

Evaluation: Analysis:

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

present as homeless (2009-2010). We have recently raised our target from 39% to 45% and we have exceeded this during Jun/July (46.2%) and Aug/Sept (48.2%). It was decided that a Vulnerability Checklist would not be helpful to advisors or cost effective for the Council. This is mainly due to the fact that information goes out of date so quickly. The Housing Options Guide is constantly updated and provides good general advice. All support services & referral procedures will be listed on on the EHAHN Community of Practice. 3. Outcome: Increase in housing advice provision in Neighbourhoods resulting in prevention of homelessness Implementation of the revised Housing Advice and Information Strategy % of housing advice cases who do not go on to present as homeless As above, housing advice cases that do not go on to present as homeless are steadily increasing to meet new targets. The implementation of the revised HAIS included an extensive internal audit of the advice given in neighbourhoods by neighbourhood staff. The audit will steer future training to ensure that quality advice is consistently given across the neighbourhoods. We have increased housing advice in the neighbourhoods by commissioning an advice service (EHAP). In year 2009/2010 the service recorded more than 1,000 additional housing advice cases. In addition EHAP also operate an outreach service to work with final year secondary school

Action:

Evaluation: Analysis:

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

students on housing advice. The service has been delivered to 1,252 young people this financial year (April- December 2010). 4. Outcome: Reduction in non-priority assessment decisions following a Homeless Assessment Extension of priority need to people aged 25 years and under and 50 years and over by April 2010

Action:

Evaluation: Reach target for 2010 – 2011, where 90% of all homeless assessments result in a priority need decision. Analysis: Edinburgh Council did not expand the priority groups and have instead concentrated efforts on prevention. However, we been performing well, with around 80% of all homeless presentations being assessed as being in priority need. This has been achieved by giving sound housing options before expecting people to go through a homeless assessment. The immediate priority is ensuring straight forward and effective pathways to safe and settled accommodation and support using both the private and social rented sector.

Strategic Outcome: Finding a home

1. Outcome:

Increase the number of potentially homeless people getting access to the private rented sector as a solution to their housing need Impact of commissioned service ‘Letfirst’ inaugurated April 2009

Action:

Evaluation: % of homeless people who get access to the private rented sector

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Analysis:

Letfirst were commissioned to provide 900 private tenancies for those who would otherwise find difficulty accessing the sector due to costs involved with deposits and/or rent in advance. Currently 320 new tenancies have been created through the Letfirst scheme.

2. Outcome:

Increase in the number of homeless people getting access to the private rented sector as a solution to their housing need Implement the revised Housing Advice and Information Strategy

Action:

Evaluation: % of homeless people who get access to the private rented sector Analysis: The % of homeless applicants being housed in the private sector has increased slightly over the past three years, this being 8.9% in 2007/8, 10.5% in 2008/9 and 11.7% in 2009/10. A multi-agency group has been set up to look at ways to increase access to the private rented sector. The group is looking at ways to overcome obstacles linked to deposits, references etc. The group will also consider the implementation of the new instrument which allows local authorities to discharge duty to those housed in the PRS.

3. Outcome:

Homeless households are provided with advice and information on a range of housing options no matter their current tenure.

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Action:

Ensure people moving on to a new tenancy from the Private Sector Leasing Scheme access the Private Rented Sector as a primary housing outcome. % of all people who move on from PSL to the Private Rented Sector These statistics are unavailable. However, the Link Group will start to monitor this and report back on a regular basis. Less people access B & B as a temporary housing Reduce the number of people accessing B & B by offering other housing options. Number of people in B & B on a nightly basis. We continue to seek ways to avoid using B&B, however the nights used has remained broadly the same as people are spending more time in temporary accommodation due to increasing average case length (110 days in 2008/9 – 174 in 2009/10). This is partly the result of lack of permanent supply. There is a need to increase turnover in temporary accommodation. This should partly be achieved through increasing access to the private rented sector.

Evaluation: Analysis:

4.Outcome: Action:

Evaluation: Analysis:

Strategic Outcome: Keeping a Home 1.Outcome: Action: Evaluation: Decrease in people presenting more than once in a 5-year period Target support and advice to those most vulnerable. % of people presenting as homeless who have been homeless in the last five years

16

Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

Analysis:

There has been an improvement in the incidence of repeat homelessness presentations. In 2009/10 repeat homelessness (within five years of first presenting) represented 24% of all presentations. This compares with 31% in 2008/09. Homeless prevention continues to be the main priority within the Homelessness Strategy. As previously mentioned, we have significantly increased advice in Neighbourhoods to ensure homeless prevention.

2. Outcome: Action: Evaluation

Increase in people accessing employability opportunities Ensure all services refer onto employability schemes when they first come into contact. % of homeless people who are unemployed who move into employment, training, volunteering or education For the year 2009/10, 18% of homeless clients working with commissioned services entered or moved towards employment. There has been an increase of 51% of all clients moving towards employment, training, volunteering or education in the last year.

Analysis:

3. Outcome: Action: Evaluation:

People are supported to establish a home when allocated a tenancy Where required homeless people are referred to the establishing a home service. Increase in people receiving help to establish a home, through provision of furniture and other essential household items when needed. We commission a service to assist people to establish a home. The service started 27th April 2009 and over 1,500 households received a homepack and 8,800 households received a starter pack during 2009/10.

Analysis:

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Appendix 3 – Edinburgh Homeless Strategy: Annual Position Statement Health, Social Care & Housing Committee – 1 March 2011

4. Outcome:

People have access to support to keep a home

Action: . Evaluation:

Homeless people are assessed for support needs to keep their home. % of people presenting as homeless who have been homeless in the last 5 years. See above. In 2008/09 over 80% of those allocated a council home were still living there after a year.

Analysis:

18