Grampian calls for focus on housing for people with learning disabilities

The call comes as tenants move into their new homes at Glassgreen Village in Elgin, built by local homebuilder Springfield.

Grampian Housing Association continues to work with partners to support inclusive communities and increase housing choice. This new development of 13 new flats with staff accommodation in Elgin, was delivered in partnership with Moray Council and Springfield Partnerships, with support from the Scottish Government.

The homes are designed to meet the needs of people with learning disabilities and to support independent living. The Association has been working closely with national social care charity, Community Integrated Care, to achieve this.

Demand for supported, accessible and inclusive housing continues to grow across Scotland, while provision remains under pressure in many areas. As a result, some individuals and families experience long waiting times or live in accommodation that does not fully meet their needs.

Grampian Housing Association is highlighting a number of areas that could support progress:

• Developing a national approach to housing for people with learning disabilities, informed by those with lived experience
• Improving data and understanding of current and future demand across different areas
• Strengthening collaboration between housing providers, local authorities, and health and social care services
• Supporting innovation in housing design and delivery models
• Ensuring people with learning disabilities are meaningfully involved in shaping policy and services

Craig Stirrat, chief executive of Grampian Housing Association, said: “Housing plays a vital role in supporting people to live independently and with dignity. For people with learning disabilities, having the right home can make a significant difference to wellbeing, safety and opportunities in everyday life.

As we look ahead, there is an opportunity for the Scottish Government to take a coordinated approach, bringing together housing, health and social care partners to better understand need and plan for the future.”

Karen Wood, head of operations at Community Integrated Care, added: “It’s fantastic to celebrate the opening of these new homes and to be part of a partnership that is making such a meaningful difference locally. These developments are about much more than housing - they are about supporting people to live independently, reconnect with their communities and truly live the best lives possible.”

“We’re incredibly proud of the work that has gone into bringing these homes to life and we’re excited to welcome people as they begin this new chapter. Having the right home, in the right place, can be transformational and this development is a great example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared vision.”

Around a third of adults with learning disabilities in Scotland currently live with family carers. Access to suitable and stable housing options, including supported living, is therefore an important consideration particularly where existing arrangements may become difficult to sustain.

Craig Stirrat added: “There is positive work already happening across Scotland, and with continued partnership working and investment, there is real potential to build on this and ensure more people can access housing that meets their needs.”

Springfield Partnerships managing director, Tom Leggeat, commented: “Everyone deserves a good place to live and a home that works for them. In close collaboration with Grampian and Moray Council, we have designed bespoke apartments to create safe places and promote independence for people who need them. We are pleased to have been involved with this project and hope the residents are happy in their new homes.”