CIH ‘deeply disappointed’ as Scottish government merges housing and social justice cabinet roles

Gillian McLees, national director at CIH Scotland, said: “Despite sector-wide agreement that housing should remain a cabinet secretary position – an opinion that had cross-party support during the election campaign – we are deeply disappointed by the government’s decision to combine housing with social justice in a shared portfolio.”

The Scottish government declared a housing emergency two years ago after several councils said they were unable to respond to rising levels of homelessness. 

Shelter also voiced its concern over the cabinet changes. Gordon Llewellyn-MacRae, the charity’s assistant director for Scotland, said it was “incredibly deflating to see housing downgraded from a specific cabinet post to a shared portfolio”.

He added: “Without a dedicated seat at the table, housing organisations will need to keep speaking out if we are to see manifesto pledges turned into action.”

However, Crisis has backed the change.

Maeve McGoldrick, the charity’s head of policy and communications in Scotland, said: “Bringing together responsibility for social justice and housing creates a real opportunity to take a more joined-up and strategic approach to tackling poverty and homelessness.”

The CIH, Shelter and Crisis all said they looked forward to working with Ms Somerville.

When contacted by Social Housing, the Scottish government provided a statement from Ms Somerville.

“I am delighted to take on the role of cabinet secretary for social justice and housing, bringing together our ambitious agenda on poverty and housing into one cabinet position,” she said.

“Housing is the single biggest cost many families face every month – and everyone must have a safe, secure and warm home.”

In January, the Scottish government revealed plans to launch a new national housing agency to help attract extra private finance. 

Ms Somerville added: “I am looking forward to ensuring access to affordable, high-quality housing for all, and delivering on commitments such as our new housing agency, and £10,000 for first-time buyers.”