Insecure, poor quality housing is making people ill and fuelling health inequalities in Scotland.

Last month, I unexpectedly received an eviction notice. I had 84 days to leave my home. Faced with skyrocketing housing prices, the threat of homelessness loomed large, and the prospect of being uprooted from my community triggered intense anxiety.

This isn’t just my story—it’s a snapshot of the housing emergency gripping Scotland.

Housing insecurity and poor quality accommodation are widespread across the nation, affecting a large portion of the population. These issues present significant public health concerns, negatively impacting residents’ physical and mental well-being and fuelling health inequalities.

Unsafe and insecure housing – the impact on health

Across Scotland, mould and damp have become rampant problems. Many residents live in these conditions for months or even years, leading to lung damage, skin conditions, and other severe health issues. In addition, the energy efficiency of Scotland’s homes remains low, contributing to fuel poverty and exacerbating social inequalities. [1]  While private and social landlords are legally required to meet certain quality standards, enforcement is lacking, as evidenced by numerous reports from individuals and organisations.

The ever rising rental prices within the context of a cost of living crisis and the high rates of evictions have a devastating impact on people’s mental health. No one should have to endure the trauma of being evicted from their home— the place they shared with loved ones, where they lived intimate moments, celebrated birthdays, raised children. On top of that, these circumstances force many into homelessness.

How can the people of Scotland live with dignity and thrive when they have no power over their own living situation?

Housing: a fundamental human right

Safe, good-quality housing is a  human right enshrined in international treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Unsafe, insecure housing not only undermines physical and mental health and fuels social inequalities—it violates these fundamental rights.

We need robust legislation that protects our right to adequate housing and prioritises people’s wellbeing and happiness over individual profit and financial speculation.

A turning point for Scottish housing policy

While housing crises are an international issue, Scotland’s devolved powers offer a unique chance to lead and set a positive example. The Housing (Scotland) Bill, introduced earlier this year, constitutes a first step towards equity and justice.

Now is the time for change. We must hold our political representatives accountable and ask them to uphold their commitment to human rights by legislating for strong rent controls and the rigorous quality standards. Only by doing so, we can ensure the provision of safe, good-quality, affordable homes for the people of Scotland.

Housing – cornerstone of health and social care integration

To effectively combat health inequalities, we must recognise housing as a critical factor. Scotland’s vision for integrated health and social care must include provisions for secure, affordable, quality housing. Only by addressing housing inequalities can we hope to tackle the overwhelming health disparities affecting our communities.

It’s time for Scotland to set a new standard in housing rights, because a healthy and just society begins at home.


[1] Only 52% of residencies meet the minimum energy efficiency standards. Data from the Scottish House Condition Survey 2022. Complete document can be found in the Scottish Government website: https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-house-condition-survey-2022-key-findings/pages/2-energy-efficiency/

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Written by: Shari McDaid PhD, Head of Policy and Public Affairs (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland), The Mental Health Foundation Published: 02/07/2024

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