Hillcrest’s Joy Melville reveals housing’s impact on health and poverty

Hillcrest tenant services manager Joy Melville recently took centre stage at a conference attended by 2,000 school pupils, shedding light on the critical link between housing conditions and health and poverty.
The Social Inequalities Conference, hosted at Dundee’s iconic Caird Hall, drew students from all corners of Scotland studying National 5 Modern Studies.
During her presentation, Joy emphasised the pivotal role that housing conditions play in the broader spectrum of social inequality, highlighting how poor housing can lead to adverse health outcomes and financial struggles.
Of particular focus was the detrimental effects of damp, mould, and condensation within homes. Pupils were shown a video produced by Hillcrest, showcasing practical steps individuals can take to reduce moisture levels in their living spaces.
Furthermore, students were directed to the Hillcrest Energy Advice Team Facebook page for additional resources on tackling fuel poverty and implementing effective mitigation strategies.
The primary objective of the conference was to enhance students’ comprehension of poverty and health disparities while igniting innovative solutions among Scotland’s upcoming generation.
Reflecting on the event, Joy remarked, “Numerous challenges impact individuals and families throughout Scotland, from the soaring cost of living to the harsh realities of income poverty.”
The overarching goal of the day was to illuminate these challenges for the younger demographic, presenting tangible avenues for assistance and empowering youth with the necessary awareness to address these issues across future generations.