The conference offered a fantastic opportunity for members to step back from day-to-day pressures and reflect together on how the sector can respond to the challenges — and opportunities presented by climate change, sustainability and long-term resilience.

With a sell-out event and a strong programme of expert speakers, the day created a positive and engaging space for learning, conversation and connection.

Delegates heard from an impressive line-up of speakers from across housing, planning, academia and sustainability. The programme featured a keynote from Pam Ewen, head of planning, climate & sustainability service and chief planner at Fife Council, whose presentation focused on delivering sustainable affordable housing in challenging times.

Members also heard from Tricia Hill, development and sustainability director at Kingdom Housing Association, on a just transition for customers in new build homes, and Eleanor Pratt of Verture, who led a session on climate resilience and adaptation for social housing.

An ESG Monitoring and Evaluation Panel Discussion added further depth to the day. The panel was chaired by Stephen Strachan, sustainability manager at Hillcrest Homes, and included Jon Turner, CEO of Link Group; Julio Bros-Williamson, Chancellor’s fellow in net zero buildings at the University of Edinburgh; Jackie Timmons, head of area-based regeneration and shared repairs at the City of Edinburgh Council; and Katy Syme, impact evaluation consultant at Changeworks.

The panel explored the value of monitoring and evaluation, the importance of good data, and how evidence can support better forward planning on ESG priorities.

SHN has also paid a special thank you to Annelise Miller, sustainability graduate trainee at Kingdom Housing Association, who organised the event as part of her placement with SHN. Her hard work, commitment and attention to detail helped make the day possible, and her contribution played a huge part in creating such a positive and well-organised event.

Andrea Finkel-Gates, chief executive of Scotland’s Housing Network, said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome members to our Sustainability Conference and to see such a positive response to the day.

“The conversations were thoughtful and engaging, the speakers brought real expertise and insight, and there was a genuine spirit of collaboration throughout. Events like this remind us how valuable it is to create space for people to come together, share ideas and support one another as we respond to the challenges facing our sector.

“The success of the day is a testament to Annelise’s commitment and dedication, it has been a pleasure working with her on this project.”

Tricia Hill, development and sustainability director at Kingdom Housing Association, said: “As the first SHN Sustainability Conference it was great to witness the level of engagement and commitment to supporting all our customers with the transition to greener technologies and working together to rise to the climate change challenge.

“The success of the conference reflects growing interest across the sector in sustainability, climate resilience and the practical steps needed to support tenants, homes and communities in the years ahead. SHN looks forward to building on the momentum from the day and continuing the conversation with members, partners and sector colleagues.”