The event brought together colleagues from local authorities, registered social landlords and partner organisations for a packed day of discussion, practical learning and networking.

Against a backdrop of continuing pressure on housing services, communities and public finances, the gathering created an important space for the sector to look beyond immediate challenges, exchange ideas and focus collectively on how housing can improve people’s lives.

The day opened with a keynote address from Lauren Walker of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, who introduced its Building Health into Homes work. The session explored how better connections between housing and health can support earlier intervention, improve wellbeing and help people participate more fully in their homes and communities.

A lively panel discussion, chaired by Dr Ross Morris of SHN, examined the implications of proposed public sector reform for housing, local democracy, resources and accountability. Panellists Dr Jocelyne Fleming of the Chartered Institute of Building, Dr Craig Dalzell of Common Weal, David Bookbinder of the Glasgow and West of Scotland Forum of Housing Associations and Tony Cain of ALACHO brought different perspectives to a timely conversation about what reform could mean for local authorities, housing associations, tenants and communities.

The programme continued with interactive workshops covering some of the most important issues facing Scotland’s housing sector. Delegates heard from Sharon Brady-Wardrope of Forth Housing Association about keeping people at the heart of organisational improvement. Kirstie McLean of TIS explored the changing landscape of tenant participation, while Stephen Kelly of Under One Roof discussed the management, maintenance and preservation of Scotland’s tenements.

Afternoon sessions considered the vital role of housing organisations in responding to domestic abuse, acting earlier to prevent homelessness and using technology to support healthier homes and independent living. Contributors included Anna Lock of the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance, Kirsty Whittaker of the City of Edinburgh Council, Gavin Wright of Bield Housing and Care and Brian Brown of Archangel.

SHN also shared progress on the member-led review of its Value for Money service. Max Scotto outlined how consultation and testing are helping to shape a more collaborative and accessible service that will support social landlords to understand cost-effectiveness, tenant-perceived value and opportunities for improvement.

Throughout the day, delegates made the most of the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, form new relationships and share experience across organisational and professional boundaries. The conversations during refreshments, lunch and workshop discussions reflected one of SHN’s greatest strengths: creating a trusted environment in which members can learn from one another, challenge ideas constructively and find practical responses to shared problems.

Andrea Finkel-Gates, chief executive of Scotland’s Housing Network, said: “Our Annual Gathering is always a special day, but this year’s event felt particularly purposeful. At a time when our members are facing intense financial, operational and social pressures, it was inspiring to see so many people come together with energy, openness and a shared determination to improve outcomes for tenants and communities.

“Every session reminded us that housing is connected to so much more than bricks and mortar. It is fundamental to health, safety, dignity, independence and people’s ability to thrive. Our speakers brought knowledge and experience, but they also brought passion and a willingness to tackle difficult questions honestly.

“The opportunity to network was equally important. Some of the most valuable conversations happen when colleagues from different organisations discover that they are working through the same challenge, share an idea or make a connection that continues long after the event.

“That spirit of collaboration sits at the heart of SHN. We are proud to provide the space, evidence and relationships that help our members learn together and turn insight into meaningful improvement.”

The gathering concluded with SHN’s 2026 Annual General Meeting, chaired by David Cargill. Members reflected on a year of continued development across data and benchmarking, housing affordability, value for money, validation and consultancy, learning events, practical resources and communities of practice.

The AGM also recognised the contribution of SHN’s members, board and staff. SHN now has 144 member organisations, covering 95% of Scotland’s social housing stock, and continues to develop its work across four portfolios: Housing Management and Communities; Property and the Environment; Homelessness Prevention and Support; and Housing Strategy, Performance and Governance.

Following the AGM, SHN said farewell to long standing board member, Graeme Winning who retired from the board. Graeme’s commitment to SHN was recognised and celebrated.

David Cargill, SHN chair, said: “SHN is strong because our members are generous with their knowledge, data, experience and time. Their willingness to share what works, speak honestly about what does not and support one another is what makes our Network genuinely member-led.

“We leave this year’s gathering with renewed energy and a clear sense of purpose. The challenges facing housing are significant, but so too are the expertise, commitment and determination across our sector. By continuing to work together, we can turn shared learning into stronger services, better homes and improved outcomes for Scotland’s tenants and communities.”