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Context: During 2020 consultation, housing services needed to better meet diverse needs of different protected characteristic groups.
Approach: Developed integrated Local Housing Strategy (2021-2026) focusing on person-centred, trauma-informed practices, with recognition that successful housing support requires individualised assessment and cross-service collaboration.
Implementation:
• Housing Solutions training sessions for Health and Social Care staff and partner organisations
• Staff training on early conversations around housing needs
• Access to Housing Options Training Toolkit
• Person-centred, trauma-informed workforce development
• Integration of Housing, Health and Social Care through joined-up approach
• Development of skilled workforce through equality training framework including bespoke inter-agency training opportunities
• Scottish Housing Regulator requirements for protected characteristics data collection
Impact:
• Local housing strategy highlighted by consultation respondents as “an example that highlights successful work being carried out to ensure a house meets the needs of an individual”
• Strategy approved and implemented with comprehensive vision: “All households in Midlothian will be able to access housing that is affordable and of good quality in sustainable communities”
• Plans for 484 units of specialist housing and 1,000 new council homes approved
• Improved integration between housing, health and social care services
Key Learning:
• Individual-focused housing strategies gain recognition
• Training essential for person-centred approaches
• Integration across services improves outcomes
• Data collection requirements drive equality focus
• National policy frameworks provide context for local housing equality work
(Source:
Equality Outcomes 2021-2025 Consultation feedback, Edinburgh Council and
Midlothian Council Local Housing Strategy 2021 – 2026 – this document will download)