The Committee has invited responses to support its consideration of Scotland’s long-term fiscal pressures.

It highlighted the Scottish Fiscal Commission’s Fiscal Sustainability Report, which stated: “The Scottish Government will face significant challenges funding devolved public services in the future, particularly over the next 25 years… because the population in Scotland will age earlier than the rest of the UK.”

As part of its call for views, the Committee asked what actions the Scottish Government should be taking to address these challenges and grow the economy.

In its response, CIH Scotland highlighted the key role of housing in supporting people to live well throughout life and into older age, contributing to health and wellbeing, saving money for health and social care partners and supporting the economy.

It stated that increasing investment in housing and housing services will result in:

• Reduced poverty and better life chances including education and employment
• Reducing homelessness and time spent in temporary accommodation
• Reducing rough sleeping and related health conditions
• Reducing instances of damp and mould and related respiratory issues
• Greater independence for older people and people with mobility issues
• Reduced hospital admissions from trips and falls
• Reducing/delaying unnecessary moves to expensive residential care
• Increased community cohesion, reduced social isolation and loneliness
• Improved outdoor space and encouraging active travel 

Commenting on the response, Ashley Campbell, policy and practice manager at CIH Scotland, said: “Our population is ageing faster than the rest of the UK but healthy life expectancy is actually reducing meaning that more people will need help as their housing needs change over time.

“Ensuring our homes are accessible, adaptable and fit for the future will be key to supporting people to live well for longer. Investing in housing and housing services leads to better outcomes for individuals and saves money for health and social care partners.”