Scottish Human Rights Commission: Housing is a Basic Right

Housing is not just about four walls and a roof over your head. It is the cornerstone of a host of fundamental human rights, as articulated by the Scottish Human Rights Commission. Professor Angela O’Hagan, the Commission’s chairperson, along with her team recently engaged with the Castlemilk Housing and Human Rights Lived Experience Group to address the myriad challenges faced by the community and to offer support.

In Professor O’Hagan’s words, “Housing is a fundamental human right. It is the key that unlocks other human rights, providing individuals with safety and security, enabling them to pursue education, work, and overall well-being.” The availability of good quality, affordable housing is intricately linked to the exercise of these basic human rights. The innovative work being carried out in Castlemilk, with active participation from housing associations, is setting an example for the sector.

The Lived Experience Group was established to empower local residents with the understanding that housing is a human right and to demonstrate its significance in their day-to-day lives. Comprising members from Ardenglen, Craigdale, Cassiltoun, and North View Housing Associations in the Castlemilk area of Glasgow, the group is dedicated to advocating for housing rights.

During discussions, the group highlighted various issues affecting the quality of life in Castlemilk, notably the absence of a supermarket despite allocated funds from the Scottish Government to facilitate such a provision. Anna Stuart, Chair of the Lived Experience Board, emphasised the importance of access to affordable, fresh food as an undeniable human right, which the 14,000 residents of Castlemilk are currently deprived of. She expressed gratitude that the Commission has taken up the cause on their behalf.

The Scottish Human Rights Commission is an independent public body answerable to the Scottish Parliament. Its primary objective is to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote respect for all human rights – be it economic, social, cultural, civil, or political – for every individual in the nation. Furthermore, the Commission aims to encourage the implementation of best practices in human rights delivery.

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