Cuts to Housing Adaptations Could Worsen NHS and Social Care Crisis

As we are still waiting for the final housing adaptation budget allocations, it has been warned that any cuts in funding will have severe consequences on the NHS and social care system. Angela Currie, the chief executive of Hanover Scotland, one of the largest housing providers for older people in Scotland, has raised concerns about the potential impact of reduced funding.

She has highlighted that housing associations like Hanover are facing difficult decisions due to the lack of sufficient funds for critical home adaptations and essential refurbishments. The recent announcement by the Scottish Government confirming a 25% cut in the adaptation fund, from £11 million to £8.245 million, has raised alarm bells in the sector.

Despite being five months into the current financial year, housing associations are still in the dark about their final budget allocations. Angela Currie emphasised the urgent need for action, stating that failure to provide adequate funding for adaptations could result in elderly and disabled individuals being trapped in hospital beds or unsafe homes, putting additional strain on the already stretched health and social care services.

With over 4,500 homes across Scotland catering to older people, Hanover Scotland plays a crucial role in providing safe and affordable housing. However, the uncertainty surrounding funding for adaptations is making it challenging for housing providers to plan for the future effectively.

Adaptations play a vital role in enabling tenants to maintain their independence, avoid hospital stays, and live with dignity. From simple modifications like grab rails to complex redesigns for wheelchair access, these adaptations can prevent more significant issues such as falls and prolonged hospital stays, which contribute to ‘bed-blocking’.

Angela Currie stressed the importance of reinstating full adaptation funding by the Scottish Government to avoid more expensive and avoidable crises in the long run. She emphasised that the small investments in adaptations are far outweighed by the costs of prolonged hospital stays and long-term care for individuals who cannot return to their homes.

For over 40 years, Hanover Scotland has been at the forefront of providing specialised homes for older adults, allowing them to live independently through a variety of housing options. Despite their significant contribution to reducing the burden on health and social care systems, the lack of clarity on funding poses a significant challenge for the organisation.

As the housing sector waits for clarity on budget allocations, Hanover Scotland has been forced to reallocate funds from other areas within the organisation to ensure tenants receive the adaptations they require. However, this approach is not sustainable and is putting pressure on the delivery of other essential services.

Angela Currie urged for urgent action in reinstating full funding for adaptations, highlighting that without adequate financial support, housing associations will struggle to provide this essential service, ultimately affecting the quality of life for their tenants. The potential repercussions of inadequate funding for adaptations are far-reaching and could lead to further strains on the public health system.

It is crucial for the Scottish Government to recognise the critical role that housing associations like Hanover play in supporting older individuals to live independently and maintain their well-being. By ensuring adequate funding for adaptations, the government can prevent unnecessary crises and alleviate pressure on the NHS and social care services in the long term.