The manifesto sets out the priorities CIH members want to see the Scottish Government deliver in the next Parliament. Through a series of workshops, surveys and face-to-face discussions, CIH members set out five key priorities they believe will tackle the housing emergency and put the sector on a firm footing for the future.

They are:

1. Affordable homes — everyone has access to a home that they can afford whatever their circumstances are at different points in time
2. Meeting changing needs — building partnerships, investing in prevention, and supporting better wellbeing at all stages of life
3. Net zero homes — energy efficient, fit for the future and affordable to heat
4. Well-managed homes — the housing workforce is knowledgeable, professional and resilient
5. Empowered residents — tenants and homeowners are aware of their rights and what they can expect from a well-functioning housing system.

Alongside the manifesto, CIH Scotland has published a companion document setting out facts, figures and further reading, which has helped inform the policy asks.

Commenting on the manifesto launch, Callum Chomczuk, national director of CIH Scotland, said: “We all know that a successful housing system provides choice across tenures, allowing people to access the right home to meet their needs at different points throughout life. This means a home that is affordable, easy to heat, the right size and in the right place with support, advice and information available when needed. The right homes and support services provide the foundations for people to flourish, they improve health and wellbeing, reduce poverty and inequality, and support the economy.

“If the next government is to make progress on tackling poverty, easing pressure on our health and social care system, reducing emissions and growing the economy, it must put housing must at the heart of those plans.

“Our manifesto has been developed through discussions with our members and the wider housing community, drawing on the expertise and experience of housing professionals across all tenures and all roles within the sector. We hope that politicians from all parties listen to the voices of Scotland’s housing professionals and we look forward to engaging with them over the coming months on behalf of our members.”