An annual event, Scottish Housing Day intends to raise awareness of the issues and achievements in Scotland’s housing sector, as well as encouraging the sector and members of the public to maintain engagement by organising events, Q&A sessions, and sharing stories and blogs through social media.

For more than a decade, the Scottish event has different initiatives, including surveys and reports and parliamentary reception events and a tour of the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at the University of Stirling. Every year housing professionals, organisations, local authorities and volunteer groups unite to champion the impact of housing in supporting a healthy lifestyle.

Ashley Campbell, CIH Scotland’s policy and practice manager and chair of the Scottish Housing Day working group, said: “Housing and support services provide the foundations for people to thrive.”

“A well-functioning housing system is essential to our physical health and mental wellbeing, creating vibrant communities and the social structures needed to keep people active, safe and living independently.

 “The quality of building fabric can make our homes more energy efficient and easier to heat, reducing fuel poverty and health issues associated with cold, damp homes.”

Campbell added: “Homes that are built to high standards of accessibility can be adapted to meet people’s changing needs, help people to live independently and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions or costly residential care.”

 Campbell continued: “But the health benefits of housing go beyond just the bricks and mortar.”

“Housing security is essential for our mental health, allowing people to put down roots in their community, and affordable homes allow people to keep more of their income for other essentials like healthy food, hobbies and socialising. Housing and third sector organisations also offer a range of additional services to support wellbeing like debt advice, tenancy sustainment and community activities.”

There are a different ways to get involved with the 2026 event. Visit the Scottish Housing Day website to sign up as an official supporter for this year, download your own supporter’s pack and provide examples of how your work aids good health.