Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2022-27Annual Progress Report
Perth and Kinross Council · 11 June 2025
Back to Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee — 11 June 2025 and its agenda
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Appendix 1 Perth and Kinross Local Housing Strategy 2022-2027 Annual Progress Report for 2024-2025 08 Fall
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 2 Perth and Kinross Local Housing Strategy 2022-2027 Annual Progress Report for Year 3 The Local Housing Strategy (LHS) 2022-2027 sets out Perth and Kinross five-year plan for the direction and delivery of housing for the area. Scottish Government guidance states that local authorities must review LHS actions annually to evidence progress on how the LHS is implementing its priorities and plans within the five-year period. This is the second annual progress update to Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee in implementing the strategy and covers Year 3 (2024-25). The aim of the LHS 2022-2027 is: To achieve this vision and realise the wider ambitions set out in the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan 2022-2032, the four LHS priorities are: Within each LHS Priority there are a series of detailed Outcome Action Plans which set specific actions with timescales, resources, and partner responsibilities. The LHS Delivery Group continues to co-ordinate, monitor and guide implementation and delivery, and evaluate the impact of housing led activity, partnership, and investment. The LHS Action Plan, activities and targets will be reviewed annually to ensure services and partners are able to respond flexibly to changes in need across Perth and Kinross. A workshop held in January 2025 marked the midway point of the LHS, and allowed an opportunity to hear how work is progressing, and in consideration of current challenges, how we plan to prioritise areas of the LHS over the next two years. 60 stakeholders attended the workshop representing a collective of public, private, third and community sectors who are all involved in helping to deliver positive housing outcomes for Perth and Kinross. Through the workshop, existing actions were reviewed and enhanced through including additional leads / coordinators and milestones to ensure actions can be achieved by 2027. These additional outputs will be reported in the next annual update in 2026. A summary of the workshop is available to view here.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 3 Achievements Priority 1: Providing more affordable homes to support liveable and sustainable communities In 2024-25: Delivered a total of 264 affordable homes including 234 for social rented housing, and 30 for mid-market rent. Delivered 37 Council new build homes and supported the completion of 70 new build affordable homes in partnership with RSLs across 9 developments Delivered new supply across the Perth and Kinross area, both in urban 53% and rural 47% areas. Purchased 116 buybacks to increase the Council’s housing stock. Brought back 18 empty homes for people in need of accommodation through the Empty Homes Initiative (EHI). Continue to use our first Self-Build Register to inform rural housing need with 30 self-build expressions of interested registered to date. Progressing 10 community-led projects with an estimated 60 homes planned. Undertook a phase of consultation and design of a former primary school using our Sustainable Inclusive Homes Net Zero Carbon Design Guide with the project intended to create 45 new build affordable homes. Undertook further feasibility for planning policy to be developed through LDP3 for Short Term Let (STL) control areas.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 4 Achievements Priority 2: Providing a range of housing options that people can easily access, afford and keep In 2024-25: Supported 1413 households to sustain their tenancy through our Tenancy Sustainment Fund, Financial Inclusion Project and Think Yes budget. Supported 35 households in the Private Rented Sector to sustain their tenancies and prevent homelessness and hardship. Published a revised Common Allocations Policy following consultation which includes an enhanced Tenant Downsizing Scheme with the aim of freeing up larger homes for households experiencing overcrowding and clarifying the level of priority for key worker housing. Continued to provide enhanced personalised transitional housing support to 20 homeless households through our Intensive Housing Support service. Supported resettlement of 26 people into secure accommodation. Continued to deliver good outcomes for people experiencing homelessness despite sustained higher levels of demand. The number of live homeless cases remained stable at around 180 with the length of time spent in temporary accommodation and the overall duration of homelessness has remained at sector-leading levels, significantly below national averages.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 5 Achievements Priority 3: Delivering housing for people with varying needs In 2024-25: Invested £491,702.66 following OT assessment in 330 minor adaptations and 74 major adaptations for local authority tenants. Supported 148 major adaptations for private tenants and homeowners through our Care and Repair Scheme. Implemented a new Adaptations Policy for Council housing to enhance the quality of life for tenants and maximise availability of housing for people with varying needs. Delivered 4 additional new build homes to support individuals to live independently with outreach support and technology through our Independent Living Panel. Continued to work collaboratively to promote the benefits of technology within a housing setting to enable people to live comfortably and independently in their own home. Rehoused 18 individuals through our Housing OT service into wheelchair accessible and adapted housing. Delivered 1 wheelchair accessible property and 12 adapted properties through our new build programme. In partnership with residents, delivered the first five of 20 new chalets to Double Dykes to replace existing older accommodation, and began wider improvements to the site.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 6 Achievements Priority 4: Delivering quality homes with affordable warmth, zero emissions and SMART technology In 2024-25: Implemented the first Perth and Kinross Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) driven by Scotland’s overarching statutory targets for greenhouse gas emissions reduction and fuel poverty. Supported the implementation of LHEES including through establishing a LHEES Coordination Team and securing funding for a Strategic Heat Network Support Unit. Increased our work with SCARF to deliver our Home Energy Advice Team (HEAT) service, providing free and impartial energy efficiency advice to 880 households which resulted in savings for residents, reductions in carbon emissions and removed 9.1% residents from fuel poverty. RSL partners have delivered 49 new build properties which all will benefit from built-in PV panels. RSL partners have improved the condition of existing stock through installation of 79 PV panels and 16 properties with air source heat pumps. £441,681 invested in communal repairs for homeowners through our Missing Shares service. Supported repairs and improvements through a programme of 441 sensors being installed across Council housing stock. Delivered fibre to 63 new build properties in partnership with RSLs.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 7 Priorities for 2025-2026 Priority 1 Accelerate delivery of our affordable housing programme of 1,050 homes over the five year LHS period, through our Strategic Housing Investment Plan and actions to build the affordable housing land supply. Continue work on reducing Empty Homes and target investment in areas where housing pressure is evidenced. Continue to support delivery of local Housing Need Assessments and Community-led projects in rural areas. Work to develop Local Living and 20-minute neighbourhood definitions that enable partners, stakeholders, and investors to pursue placemaking which improves connectivity through investment in physical, social, and digital infrastructure. Make a further report on potential for Short Term Let Control Area(s) to the relevant committee. Priority 2 Continue to develop and improve tailored debt advice and welfare assistance to households across Perth and Kinross. Monitor the potential of the tenant incentive scheme to encourage tenants of larger properties to downsize. Continue to explore potential projects to deliver key worker housing in Northern Perthshire. Continue to work with partners to offer housing and support options to refugees in response to national dispersal and resettlement programmes. Increase engagement with private landlords in Perth and Kinross to improve awareness of proposed PRS reforms and investment regarding energy efficiency measures.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 8 Priorities for 2025-2026 Priority 3 Ensure planning policy, placemaking and housing investment contribute to health and wellbeing, particularly through development in rural areas in partnership with RSLs and HSCP. Develop and implement Dementia Friendly design for social rented newbuild developments. Engage with developers to encourage more wheelchair accessible homes delivered through the Private Sector. All tenure wheelchair (Private) target to be considered for LDP3 for all sites. Continue to progress core and cluster projects through Independent Living Panel. Continue to use, where required, the Buyback Scheme to purchase ‘particular / adaptable homes’ for households with varying needs to ensure existing adapted properties are matched to households with specific requirements. Priority 4 Support implementation of LHEES Delivery Plan to improve energy efficiency across all tenures. Encourage more third sector organisations to engage in the provision of energy advice and support. Continue with training and developing the understanding of current and future skills and training requirements of the construction sector to deliver quality homes. Work with Scottish Government and other agencies to improve digital infrastructure particularly in rural communities. Use the learning from the existing Internet of Things pilot ‘Monitoring temperature humidity and CO2 in 50 homes to help tenants manage their energy, reduce fuel poverty and maintain their homes well’ with a view to scale it up.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 9 LHS Outcome 1: Providing more affordable homes to support liveable and sustainable communities Supporting National Priorities, Plans and Targets and links to Corporate Plan and Local Outcomes Improvement Plan: Tayside HNDA 2022, Perth and Kinross Housing Supply Targets 2022+, Planning Advice Note (PAN) 2/2010: Affordable Housing and Land Audits, Perth and Kinross Local Development Plan, Scottish Planning Policy (SPP), ‘A Place to Stay, A Place to Call Home: a Strategy for the Private Rented Sector in Scotland’, Public Health Priority, Scotland’s National Performance Network, Creating Places – A Policy Statement on Architecture and Place for Scotland, Designing Streets, Green Infrastructure: Design and Placemaking, Planning Advice Note 77: Designing Safer Places, Community Empowerment Act 2015, Place Standard, Town Centre First Principle, National Planning Framework 4, National Transport Strategy 2. Action No. Action(s) and Commitments for Outcome Delivery Baseline Indicator or Measure Milestone Target / End Point Action Lead / Coordinator Progress 2024-2025 1.1 Deliver PKC’s affordable housing programme of 1,050 homes over the next five years 800 affordable homes (Target in LHS 2016- 2021) Urban (53%) / Rural (47%) split Affordable housing completions Monitor the Urban / Rural split to ensure representative distribution Achieve an average of 210 affordable housing completions each year 70% Social Rent (735/1050) 30% other affordable tenure (315/1050 - LCHO, MMR, Self- Build) Maintain 53% / 47% split across urban and rural areas 2027 Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) Registered Social Landlords (RSL) There were 264 affordable housing completions. New Supply PKC New Build 37 RSL New Build 70 Buybacks 116 HRA Purchase 18* Empty Homes as reported in 1.2 23 Total 264 Tenure Social Rent 234 MMR 7 Empty Homes for MMR 23 Total 264 Locality Split Urban 53%
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 10 Rural 47% *18 properties previously owned by the National Trust for Scotland in Dunkeld were purchased by PKC using funding from the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). The Scottish Government Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP) comprises a range of funding mechanisms to enable affordable housing providers to deliver homes for social rent, mid -market rent, and low-cost home ownership to support the LHS. AHSP funding allocated to RSLs per year is higher than funding allocated to PKC, which results in more RSL new build completions than PKC. Further localised targets for both urban and rural areas will be reflected in the SHIP report in October 2025.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 11 1.2 Develop an Empty Homes Action Plan which targets investment in areas where housing pressure is evidenced Current Empty Homes evidence Current pressure analysis and local housing systems analysis Number of empty homes brought back into use Develop evidence base to demonstrate areas of housing pressure Consultation with stakeholders and partners on action plan development Develop and implement action plan Ongoing 2024 2025 Place Development (Steven Macdonald) Housing (Martin Smith) 93 properties (included in this is 23 properties supported by the Empty Homes Initiative) brought back into use through a variety of grants and initiatives. The Empty Homes Initiative Grants are distributed to enable long- term empty properties to be brought up to the Repairing Standard and used again as affordable housing as outlined in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006. Grants of up to £7,500 per bedroom are available and are awarded on a discretionary basis, subject to availability. This funding is separate from the Scottish Government Affordable Housing Supply Programme funding as reported in 1.1. The Empty Homes Initiative is effective and is considered to be an exemplar model within Scotland. It is not currently clear what value an Action Plan or Strategy
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 12 would have but this is being kept under review. 1.3 Maximise the potential to generate more homes through brownfield regeneration which encourages mixed developments and change of use for vacant properties Vacant and Derelict Land Register Housing Land Audit Number of completions on brownfield regeneration sites Number of homes created as a result of use for vacant properties Develop a register of potential brownfield regeneration sites Develop a register of potential sites that would be suitable as housing subject to change of use Evaluate sites in line with SHIP criteria Carry out feasibility studies as required Deliver 50% affordable homes through brownfield regeneration and change of use for vacant properties 2023 2023 Ongoing Ongoing 2027 Planning, Transport and Housing Strategy (Brenda Murray) Place Development (Steven Macdonald) Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) The Urban Capacity and Brownfield Study continues to progress and inform the Vacant and Derelict Land Register and PKC acquisitions. We undertook a phase of consultation and design of the former Balhousie Primary School on Dunkeld Road, Perth using our Sustainable Inclusive Homes Net Zero Carbon Design Guide which details construction innovation and house design for affordable homes. The project is projected to create 46 new build social rented homes, including for those with amenity and ambulant design requirements. 1.4 Seek opportunities to deliver a wider range of affordable housing options e.g., intermediate Average number of completions for each tenure per annum Number of homes delivered by each tenure Carry out feasibility studies Identify and develop partnerships to deliver wider range of affordable housing options Ongoing Ongoing Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) Registered Social Landlords See 1.1 for update on completions Self-Build Register has 30 expressions of interest registered to date
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 13 housing, LCHO and affordable self-build etc. Establish a Self-Build Register and identify self-build opportunities using the Development Management process. Increase range of affordable housing options in rural areas working in partnership with private estates, landowners, developers, funders, and local communities Undertake a targeted Housing Needs Assessments Programme (HNAP) in rural settlements where tackling a lack of AH has been identified as a priority in Community Action Plans (CAPs) Work in partnership with rural housing specialists to enable Community Development Trusts to secure subsidy from Scottish Land Fund (SLF) and Rural Housing Fund (RHF), private and other funding sources to 2023 Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 4 Housing Need Assessments were completed across rural areas. Progressing 4 community- led projects with an estimated 30 homes planned (Aberfeldy; Kinloch Rannoch; Ballinluig) Pitlochry Area Projects Feasibility Study include 3 Projects in SHIP with a site start and completion now in 2029/30.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 14 develop community- led housing projects Aim to deliver, via a community-led approach, up to 100 new affordable homes of various types and tenures that reflect HNAP outputs, to be delivered to Design Guide Standard over the period of the strategy 2027 1.5 Continue to develop partnership working to ensure collaborative investment approach towards locality leadership and place planning processes through Community Action Plans and Local Place Plans Existing community planning structures Current partnership projects Collaborative approaches to investment developed Joint projects identified and progressed Develop and implement capacity building opportunities to support master planning, delegated decision making and budget management Develop clear definitions for lifetime 20-minute neighbourhoods that enable partners, stakeholders, and investors to pursue placemaking which improves connectivity through investment in physical, social, and digital infrastructure Evaluation of existing structures to identify opportunities that will Ongoing 2026 2027 Place Development (Steven Macdonald) Planning, Transport and Housing Strategy (Nicola Sworowski) The LDP3 has progressed with the Evidence Report being submitted to the Scottish Government for assessment. As work continues on the Proposed Plan, further work will be undertaken on Local Living and 20- min neighbourhoods that will be incorporated into the LDP3. Local Place Plans were encouraged and two areas have submitted plans so far.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 15 empower local teams to make a difference within their communities 1.6 Embed the values of the Perth and Kinross Offer to ensure investment and commitment across Services to develop and deliver the LHS Action Plan Existing structures and groups Demonstrate delivery of Perth and Kinross Offer Develop and improve existing structures to pursue innovation in placemaking, master planning, construction innovation and housing design Develop collaborative partnerships which test innovation in housing design and modern methods of construction 2023 Ongoing Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) A workshop was held in January 2025 to mark the midway point of the LHS, and to have an opportunity to hear how work is progressing, and considering current challenges, how we plan to prioritise areas of the LHS over the next two years. 60 stakeholders attended the workshop representing a collective of public, private, third and community sectors sharing valuable insight to help ensure our LHS continues to deliver positive housing outcomes for Perth and Kinross and the people who live here. Through the workshop, existing actions were reviewed and enhanced through including additional leads / coordinators and
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 16 milestones to ensure actions can be achieved by 2027. These will be reflected in the next annual update for 2026. A summary of the workshop is available to view here. Quarterly newsletters providing updates on LHS progress have been circulated online to stakeholders and elected members between April 2024 and March 2025. 1.7 Planning policy to be developed through LDP3 where appropriate for Short Term Let (STL) control areas Number of Short Term Lets by postcode district and HMA Outcome of analysis of impact of STLs on Housing Pressures, House Price, PRS, ASB, Community, Amenities and Facilities, Tourism, Economy Complete feasibility study in relation to STL Control Area Community Consultation Local Development Plan Policy to be developed and implemented where appropriate for STL Control Areas 2023 2026 Planning, Transport and Housing Strategy (Nicola Sworowski) A proposal for a Short Term Let Control Area was submitted to Economy and Infrastructure Committee in August 2024 seeking approval to commence the formal statutory process to introduce a Short-term Let Control Area informed by the results of the 2023 non- statutory consultation on the principle of a Control Area, and updated research by housing experts Arneil Johnston using the Licence register
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 17 of short-term lets (STLs). The Committee rejected the recommendations. Officers were asked to reconsider the planning considerations of the proposal and this was submitted to Full Council in May 2025 where it was agreed to commence the formal statutory process to introduce a Short-term Let Control Area in Northern Perthshire. 1.8 Pursue a pro- active master planning approach to assist development of planning and development frameworks and use powers where necessary to acquire land and property LDP2 and Housing Land Audit Master Plans in place Use placemaking principles to engage urban and rural landowners, developers, and providers Identify opportunities and adopt Master Planning approach to effective land supply where appropriate Ongoing Ongoing Planning, Transport and Housing Strategy (Nicola Sworowski) Estates (Jonathan Janes) The LDP3 has progressed with the Evidence Report being submitted to the Scottish Government for assessment. Work on the Proposed Plan is on- going and will incorporate masterplans for development sites. The New Build Delivery Group continue to identify potential sites for affordable housing-led redevelopment, including use of public-sector assets, and engaging with urban and rural landowners and developers.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 18 LHS Outcome 2: Providing a range of housing options that people can easily access, afford, and keep Supporting National Priorities, Plans and Targets and links to Corporate Plan and Local Outcomes Improvement Plan: Ending Homelessness Together Action Plan, Equally Safe -Scotland’s Strategy for Preventing and Eradicating Violence Against Women and Girls and the Equally Safe Delivery Plan, Perth and Kinross Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan, Scottish Social Housing Charter. Action No. Action(s) and Commitments for Outcome Delivery Baseline Indicator or Measure Milestone Target / End Point Action Lead / Co- ordinator Progress 2024-2025 2.1 Ensure that tailored debt advice and welfare assistance is available to those most in need at an appropriate time Existing services Number of households assisted Services Provided Households assisted Income generated via assistance Review existing services provided and develop promotional opportunities to raise awareness of these 2024 Welfare Rights (Nicola Sutherland) Income Maximisation (Mark Weir) Community Learning and Development (Susan Guild) Private Sector Team (Jennifer Kent) Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Tenancy Sustainment Fund provided 564 households with a financial payment toward their rent arrears balance. The total budget was £203k. Financial Inclusion Project delivered by CAB supported a total of 677 tenants with a financial gain for those referred of £784,052. Our Think Yes budget supported a total of 172 households with a spend of £29,950. This £30k fund is used by Locality Housing Teams to provide assistance in meeting the costs of moving into a new home
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 19 and the one-off unexpected costs. Supported 35 households in the PRS to sustain their tenancies through the Private Sector Sustainment Fund with a spend of £37521.24. 2.2 Develop a range of options that achieve a better match of households to homes Current options New and improved options available Review mutual exchange process and raise awareness Review and enhance the tenant incentive scheme to encourage tenants of large properties to downsize 2023 2024 Housing (Martin Smith) Registered Social Landlords A revised Common Allocations Policy was approved by the Housing & Social Wellbeing Committee in January 2025. The new Policy takes affect from 1 April 2025 and includes an enhanced Tenant Downsizing Scheme which will be run as a 'test of change' project during 2025/26. This will initially be limited to PKC tenants and will offer cash and non-cash incentives up to the value of £2,000. If successful, the scheme will free-up larger accommodation which can be allocated to households experiencing overcrowding. 2.3 Review existing evidence base and consider Existing Build to Rent Models Review and feasibility study complete Complete review Carry out feasibility study and evaluate findings 2024 2024 Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) The review identified Build to Rent as a form of private market rent (PRS)
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 20 feasibility of Build to Rent models to deliver high quality, energy efficient market rent options that could be a positive contributor to more diverse market tenures. At a national level investment activity is currently low due to regulatory uncertainty. Officers will monitor the national climate and support interest in Perth and Kinross for developments in the future. 2.4 Continue to work with partners to offer housing and support options to refugees in response to national dispersal and resettlement programmes Existing housing and support provision Current national dispersal and resettlement programmes Number of refugees provided with accommodation and support Continue to respond and support requirements in relation to national programmes Ongoing Housing (Martin Smith / Jennifer Kent) One Afghan family have been resettled through the UKRS and a further two properties are matched to Afghan families. These 3 families contain a total of 26 people. Currently 22 non-UK nationals in temporary accommodation having presented as homeless. Several of these are former asylum seekers who have had positive decisions on their asylum claims and have been granted refugee or humanitarian protection status. We are still seeing higher levels of
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 21 homelessness presentations from EU nationals than was the case pre-Brexit. Immigration in the broadest sense is now a significant and growing pressure in terms of the Housing Crisis/Emergency. 2.5 Enhance personalised transitional housing support to homeless households with moderate to high support needs from temporary or supported accommodation to settled housing Existing house support provision Average number of households with moderate to high needs provided with support per annum Model developed Number of households assisted Develop and implement model of enhanced personalised transitional housing support 2023 Housing (Martin Smith) The Intensive Housing Support Service was launched in October 2023 and is ongoing. The service is subject to a 2- year contracts which runs to October 2025 with an optional 12-month extension. The plan is to extend the service to March 2026 in line with the separate Floating Housing Support service which needs to be recommissioned. The service is operating at capacity with around 20 service-users being supported. 2.6 Increase engagement with private landlords in Perth and Kinross to Current Landlord engagement opportunities Number of engagement opportunities provided Develop and implement framework of engagement opportunities for private landlords 2024/25 Licensing (Karen Engelberts) Private Sector Team (Aleksandra Pater) Advice and assistance continue to be provided to landlords on request or in response to complaints. Market conditions for the private-
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 22 improve awareness of proposed PRS reforms and funding options that may be available to invest in energy efficiency measures in PRS homes e.g., Home Energy Scotland, interest free loans Sources of information on responsibilities and future reforms Number of landlords supported Information source developed Environmental Health (Kirsty Steven) rented sector remain challenging and there is still an absence of detailed information or guidance available about energy efficiency expectations for private landlords. There is good communication between the Teams who deliver services for private landlords and engagement opportunities will be designed and delivered in a collaborative way when this is considered to be required or beneficial. 2.7 Continue to improve the Council’s approach to Rapid Rehousing via the Home First model RRTP 2022/23 Successful delivery of RRTP Housing options, support, and homeless prevention services materials available in range of accessible formats and channels Work in partnership to deliver RRTP Lead role in continued development, implementation, and delivery of RRTP Sustain or improve performance in relation to RRTP locally agreed targets for; o Number of homeless households waiting for an offer of secure accommodation Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Housing (Martin Smith) The future of Rapid Rehousing Transition Plans is unclear as a transition to rapid rehousing is no longer a realistic ambition for most local authorities. However, our RRTP remains fit for purpose in terms of the general objectives and targets. The Plan will be reviewed, taking account of any new guidance from the Scottish Government, but our ‘Home First’ approach to
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 23 o Average length of stay in temporary accommodation o Average homeless case duration Provide communication materials in accessible formats to raise public awareness of available of housing options, support, and homelessness prevention services Review existing advice and information Identify communication formats and channels required Engage with stakeholders to understand requirements Develop and implement improved materials, formats, and channels of communication 2024 2024/25 2024/25 2024/25 2024/25 homelessness will continue. In 2024/25, there were 861 new homelessness presentations, an increase of 0.6%. The number of live homeless cases (people waiting for permanent housing) remained stable at around 180 and the average case duration and average length of stay in temporary accommodation remained at sector- leading levels, significantly below national averages. LHS Outcome 3: Delivering housing for people with varying needs
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 24 Supporting National Priorities, Plans and Targets and links to Corporate Plan and Local Outcomes Improvement Plan: Public Health Priority, National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes, 2022 Tayside HNDA, Good Mental Health for All, Keys to Life, Age, Home and Community –The Next Phase, Scottish Strategy for Autism, Race Equality Action Plan, Site Standards -Scottish Government guidance on minimum sites standards and site tenants' core rights and responsibilities, Scottish Social Housing Charter, Improving the lives of Gypsy/Travellers 2019-21, Foundations for well-being: Reconnecting Public Health and Housing, Perth and Kinross Council Housing Contribution Statement, Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership Strategic Plan 2019-2022 / 2020-25, Perth and Kinross Sustainable Inclusive Homes Net Zero Carbon Design Guide 2023, Perth and Kinross Care and Repair and Scheme of Assistance. Action No. Action(s) and Commitments for Outcome Delivery Baseline Indicator or Measure Milestone Target / End Point Action Lead / Coordinator Progress 2024-2025 3.1 Ensure planning policy, placemaking and housing investment programmes contribute to improved and sustainable homes, outdoor space, health, and wellbeing for all households including those with varying needs Local Development Plan Number of Care and Repair Services Adaptations SHIP completions Common Allocations Policy Delivery of SHIP including Independent Living projects Delivery Care and Repair Delivery of Adaptations Housing Options advice and assistance provided PKC New Build Design Guide Prepare LDP3 and PKC Mobility Strategy Encourage the pre- planning of PKC's property adaptations at the void stage to enable early management of adaptations budgets and programme Effective review, referral, prioritisation, and promotion of Occupational Therapy (OT) provision for all tenures to support the delivery of property adaptations Review Allocation Policy and Procedures Develop and implement Dementia Friendly design for 2023 2023 2024 2024 2024 Housing (Nicola Lennon / Martin Smith) HSCP / Independent Living Panel Planning, Transport and Housing Strategy (Nicola Sworowski) Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) Registered Social Landlords The LDP3 continues to progress with first major milestone of submission of Evidence Report to Scottish Government and approval at Full Council on 5th March 2025. Informed by Big Place Conversation. The Mobility Strategy approved by Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on 23 October 2024 included approval of 11 transport planning objectives (TPOs) which will support this action in terms of ensuring that future housing developments have adequate multi-modal
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 25 social rented newbuild developments Develop information, advice, and support in relation to provision of housing and related services for older people and those with dementia which enhance independence Engage with developers to encourage more wheelchair accessible homes delivered through the Private Sector. All tenure wheelchair (Private) target to be considered for LDP3 for all sites. Make improvements to Gypsy Traveller sites including energy efficiency chalets and renewable energy sources. Contribute to enabling greater tenure choice and avoid crisis interventions at a later stage by testing the development of flexible tenure models and developing a housing 2025 2025 2027 2027 transport links that enable access. Invested £491,702.66 in PKC Adaptations: 330 PKC Minor Adaptations and 74 PKC Major Adaptations. Completed 148 major adaptations through Care & Repair with an annual spend of £639,988.12 for grant approvals. Carried out 2508 Housing Options advice and assistance interviews. Revised Occupational Therapy (OT) / Adaptations Policy implemented following review. RSL Partners Hillcrest and Kingdom completed 12 major and 22 minor adaptations. Caledonia have not provided their adaptation figures. Ark have had 0 in Perth and Kinross.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 26 options guide for older households and those with dementia The first five of 20 new replacement energy- efficient chalets arrived at Double Dykes permanent Gypsy / Traveller site in March 2025, a significant milestone in the £6.5m refurbishment project. Major additional improvement works are being carried out in full consultation and engagement with residents, with the project expected to be completed by September 2025. 3.2 Continue to improve working relationships, training, collaboration and knowledge exchange on equalities, advice and care and support services to enable independent living across Existing training and collaboration opportunities Existing knowledge exchange Register of information in relation to equalities, advice and Number of ILP meetings and matches Number of joint training opportunities Information/knowledge hub sharing Number of promotional opportunities to highlight ILP and Accommodation Guide to Independent Living Ensure all information and advice is available in accessible formats Review Accommodation Guide to Independent Living Develop information/knowledge hub of information and advice available Identify joint training opportunities and support delivery of same 2024 2024 2024 2024 Independent Living Panel (ILP) The Independent Living Panel (ILP) continues to meet monthly to discuss referrals for supported accommodation and match or refer individuals to suitable housing options. The ILP informs the Council’s new build housing programme (see also 1.1) to ensure, where possible, new build housing can meet
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 27 Perth and Kinross care and support Identify collaboration opportunities across equalities, care, support, and independent living, carry out feasibility studies where appropriate and delivery of same where outcomes indicate these are required 2024 the need for supported accommodation in future. The ILP also continues to offer signposting at an early stage to help people understand what housing and support they may need in future. ILP met 12 times and matched 5 referrals to various accommodation. The Accommodation Guide was reviewed and updated in line with accommodation options available. ILP and Accommodation Guide highlighted through 2 public events. An ILP Development Day is scheduled for May 2025 to identify joint training and further collaborative opportunities. See also 3.3
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 28 3.3 Work jointly with agencies to ensure future housing developments address barriers to employment and link to transport and childcare provision in the delivery of person-centred care and support services, with a focus on areas of deprivation and rural communities Current workforce capacity Evidence bases in relation to transport and accessibility issues in remote rural areas 5% Rural communities HSCP Workforce Plan Housing Contribution Statement (HCS) PKC New Build Design Guide Workforce capacity increased Evidence of improved transport and accessibility Increase in person- centred care and support in areas of deprivation and rural communities Development of Independent Living projects Implementation / Adoption of PKC New Build Design Guide Implementation of PKC Mobility Strategy Progress core and cluster projects through Independent Living Panel which provide additional staff base / office space, and explore inclusion of other communal spaces Scope, develop and implement use of outreach and digital services Engage HSCP and Third Sector in promotion of PKC Mobility Strategy Update Housing Contribution Statement (HCS) Work with delivery partners to ensure that all new affordable homes meet standards set out in 4.1 External Spaces of PKC Net Zero Design Guide/Perth and Kinross Standard 2023. Take account of workforce capacity, transport and accessibility issues and site locations in Ongoing Ongoing 2024 2024-25 2027 2027 Planning, Transport and Housing Strategy (Nicola Sworowski) Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) HSCP Independent Living Panel (ILP) Mobility Strategy (Carlyn Morilly) Registered Social Landlords 4 new build cottage flats completed by RSL partner Kingdom HA in partnership with HSCP for individuals matched through ILP as requiring supported accommodation with TEC and staffing requirements. The ILP is currently working towards the transition of individuals moving into this accommodation, as well as working to inform future projects for independent living set out in the SHIP.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 29 preparation of LDP3 and 20 min neighbourhood analysis 3.4 Continue to work collaboratively to promote the benefits, increase awareness and make better use of technology within a housing setting to enable people to live comfortably and independently in their own home Current assistive technology in use within housing Number of households receiving assistive technology Information/knowledge hub in relation to assistive technology Information and advice guide developed Develop information/knowledge hub in relation to assistive technology Consider / create development of ‘showcase’ property to demonstrate assistive technology available Develop and promote advice and information guide Ongoing Ongoing 2024 HSCP TEC (Anthony Clark) See update for 3.3 Updated data on devices via TEC webpage and continue to develop interactive experience within Smart Flat. Regular updates provided to carer forum. Attended community and NHS events, promoting availability and uses of TEC currently available. Discussions held on proactive approach to support residence and providers of residential and sheltered accommodation further. Review of HSCP website underway with a view to update and implement governance on content updates.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 30 3.5 All affordable homes are built to revised HfVN standard and New Build Design Guide, with a minimum 10% of all affordable homes being built to wheelchair and adaptable standard Revised HfVN Standards Affordable Completions Average wheelchair completions per annum Existing flexible tenure models Need and demand for flexible tenure models Completions built to revised HfVN Standards Wheelchair Completions Research and testing complete 10% wheelchair homes delivered Determine future targets across all particular requirements through collaboration with key partners and service users (person centred) Test and research flexible tenure models for households with varying needs to create individual housing journeys as their needs and circumstances change Implement revised Housing for Varying Needs (HfVN) standard and New Build Design Guide Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 2025 Housing (Nicola Lennon) Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) Registered Social Landlords 1 wheelchair completion (0 PKC & 1 RSL) 12 ambulant completions (0 PKC & 12 RSL) Housing OT undertaken assessments for wheelchair users and 18 people have been rehoused into Council (13) and RSL (5) housing. Revised HfVN Guidance has not been published in 2024-25. PKC will adopt new guidance subject to further revisions and publication. 3.6 Consider widening the Buyback Scheme to purchase ‘particular / adaptable homes’ for households with varying needs to ensure existing adapted properties are Number of households whose needs are currently unable to be met Number of properties purchased to meet identified need Number of households receiving ‘particular / adaptable homes’ that meets their needs Review scope of Open Market Purchase Scheme to include purchases of ’particular / adaptable homes’ which are non- ex-Council properties Identify existing adapted properties on open market for sale Identify existing private sector properties with adaptations 2023 2024 2024 Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) The Buyback Policy was reviewed and includes a key outcome to support Health & Social Care to meet the accommodation needs of clients with complex and specific support requirements as identified by the Independent Living Panel.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 31 matched to households with specific requirements Identify number and location of households whose needs cannot be met through existing social rented stock or by an in-situ solution. 2024 We undertook a phase of consultation and design of the former Balhousie Primary School on Dunkeld Road, Perth using our Sustainable Inclusive Homes Net Zero Carbon Design Guide. The project is projected to create 46 new build social rented homes, including for those with amenity and ambulant design requirements. 3.7 Work with Gypsy/Traveller community members to have a better understanding of their accommodation needs and preferences and explore and develop workable solutions HNDA Specialist Provision Chapter Scottish Government GT Count Local authority GT Information (LA Sites, Unauthorised Encampments etc) Forthcoming Gypsy Number of engagement opportunities Improved understanding of needs and preferences Workable solutions in place Update the Gypsy Traveller Action Plan: Continue to develop engagement opportunities with GT community Organise engagement events/surveys Scope out accommodation needs and preferences along with solutions Pilot delivery of proposed solutions where feasible Pursue the establishment of a transient site for Gypsy Travellers 2023 Ongoing Ongoing 2024 2024-27 2027 Housing (Andrea McCallum) Environmental Health (Kirsty Steven) Equalities (David McPhee) Provision of Gypsy/traveller Transient site progressing. Consultation on Transient Site with Gypsy/Travellers and local businesses has been carried out on proposed site plans. 12 roadside Gypsy/Traveller Encampments monitored and managed by Environmental Team during from 1/4/124 to 31/12/24. Encampments in several locations throughout
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 32 Traveller Action Plan P&K and for a total period of approx. 20 weeks across the year. Regular engagement with residents at Double Dykes and Bobbin Mill. See also update in Action 3.1. 3.8 Continue to improve PKC's central housing database (NEC Housing) with information of all existing property adaptations and accessibility features to maximise the use of limited resources and match suitable properties to appropriate households NEC Housing Property Information Improved intelligence gathering and reporting via NEC Housing Continue to gather intelligence and populate NEC Housing with existing property adaptations and accessibility features Enhance processes and procedures to ensure that the allocation of properties takes account of system-based intelligence about adaptations and accessibility features Ongoing 2024 Performance and Business (Linda Montgomery) Housing (Jennifer Kent) Work is progressing to provide better intelligence on demand for specific property types and sizes in certain locations to ensure effective use of all the social housing stock in Perth and Kinross. This will also help to identify unmet and future housing need that can then be addressed within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. LHS Outcome 4: Delivering quality homes with affordable warmth, zero emissions and SMART Technology Supporting National Priorities, Plans and Targets and links to Corporate Plan and Local Outcomes Improvement Plan: Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies (LHEES), Sustainable Housing: Fuel Poverty and Climate Change Advice Note, Scottish Government’s Energy Efficient Scotland Route Map, Fuel Poverty (Targets, Definition, and Strategy) (Scotland) Act 2019, Climate Action Plan (December 2021), Scottish Housing Quality Standard, Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing, Scottish Social Housing Charter, Scottish House Condition Survey, Local House Condition Survey (Council Sector).
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 33 Action No. Action(s) and Commitments for Outcome Delivery Baseline Indicator or Measure Milestone Target / End Point Action Lead / Co-ordinator Progress 2024-2025 4.1 Support implementation of Perth and Kinross Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) Current Projects LHEES Delivery Plan Energy Efficiency of Council / Social housing stock Energy Efficiency of PRS Properties Current funding opportunities Delivery of Actions within LHEES Delivery Plan LHEES Delivery Plan Developed Work in partnership to deliver identified projects and contribute to delivery and implementation of LHEES Delivery Plan Improving energy efficiency across all tenures by maximising the use of national funding programmes 2023 Ongoing Ongoing Climate Change and Sustainable Development (Divindy Grant / Shelley McCann) LHEES strategy published in July 2024 and the focus has turned to Strategy Delivery. Funding received from Heat Network Support Unit to progress the technical and commercial scope of the Strategic Perth Heat Network. Several other linked projects (e.g. Scalable Cities, IUK One -stop shop. IES Property) are all contributing to Strategy delivery. A new external working group structure is being established to ensure we are working with partners on key actions. Work continues to develop an agile and reactive Delivery Plan for targeting actions and triaging a pipeline of energy projects through to business case aligned to Regional Energy
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 34 Strategic Plans and DNO grid investment planning via the Local Energy Network Accelerator (LENZA Platform). RSL partners have installed PV panels to 79 existing social housing stock in Perth and Kinross to enhance energy efficiency for their tenants. 4.2 Improve capacity of energy and fuel poverty advice services and improve availability of information on fuel poverty and energy efficiency measures available to front line staff, service providers and to households most in need Current information on support services/sign posting in relation to energy efficiency and property condition Current supports in relation to energy efficiency and property condition Number of households Improved information and advice Accessibility, format and channels for advice and information Number of households accessing information and advice Target advice and support for landlords on how to access sources of funding combined with enforcement of the new standards when they come in Target income maximisation and fuel poverty support to households living in PRS Deliver heating and energy efficiency advice and support directly and through partners as aligned with the LHEES Explore existing data and insight to develop a risk framework to Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Housing (Nicola Lennon / Jennifer Kent) SCARF Energy Advice Network Child Poverty (Margaret Lynch) Data Services (Ewan Walker) Welfare Rights (Nicola Sutherland) 880 P&K households provided with energy efficiency and/or low carbon heating advice (PKC funded SCARF). This has resulted in savings for residents, reductions in carbon emissions and removed 9.1%* of residents from fuel poverty. *Out of the 880 households that Scarf provided with advice, 317 were in fuel poverty – 29 were removed from fuel poverty following Scarf interventions. This is 9.1% out of the 317. Please note this is for
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 35 currently accessing information households who are financially vulnerable and offer appropriate support Develop process to record number of households accessing information and advice 2024 Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) the Scarf service delivered as a result of the climate change funding which related to the 880 total engagements. Data Services team on behalf of the Child Poverty Working Group published a Child Poverty Risk Framework Report to demonstrate potential of using Council statistics to understand ‘financial need’ across P&K which is being utilised by various teams to target households most in need. 4.3 Build an understanding of the current and future skills and training requirements to “green” the construction sector to ensure we can deliver quality homes with affordable warmth, zero emissions and To be developed To be developed A number of studies are underway at a national and regional level to review the Green Skills opportunity and to define what is required for various sectors including construction. Once these have reported and further analysis has been undertaken at a local level more milestones can be determined. Ongoing / 2027 Housing (Nicola Lennon / Elaine Ritchie / June McColl) Registered Social Landlords Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) Training has been provided to the Repairs Service trades teams regarding renewables e.g. solar panels etc. Smart meters are fitted in every council property when vacant. LED lighting is also fitted in kitchens, rear gardens and close lighting. Climate change training is undertaken as part of
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 36 SMART technology. Work in partnership with the CITB, local construction companies and training providers including Perth UHI to ensure Perth and Kinross is well placed to provide appropriate re- skilling and training opportunities. Employability & Skills (Andy Brown) Tay Cities Skills Programme (Amparo Echenique) Nicky Inglis (UHI) LIGO training and 21% of repairs staff have completed this. Our Modern Apprentices training with SNIPEF, SECTT and CITB means that we work closely with Perth UHI and Dundee College to ensure our apprentices are fully versed in renewable energy practices. Monthly apprentice progress reports are supplied by each College on the progress of each MA. 4.4 Target investment to homes based on evidence and intelligence gathered Identify existing information (Home Analytics, SHQS sources and information provided) Forthcoming Information sources identified (LHCS, Housing IoT data, 2022 Census, Cold Home App data, etc.) Improved intelligence (Gypsy Traveller Consultation, energy advisors intelligence etc.) Identify and quantify existing information sources Integrate existing and forthcoming information sources Improve understanding of intelligence available, identify gaps and solutions to address these Develop a delivery framework, integrating the outputs of the Risk framework in Action 4.2 2023 2023 2023 2023 Housing (Nicola Lennon) Climate Change and Sustainable Development (Divindy Grant / Shelley McCann) Strategic Energy Programme evidence underlying LHEES, LAEP, Heat Network Zoning published to the LENZA platform to support targeting. Strategic Energy Programme work continues to develop an agile and reactive Delivery Plan for targeting actions and triaging a pipeline of
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 37 Conduct wider policy review update to map national and local policies, targets and strategies that are linked to, impact, or could be impacted by LHS (including LHEES, Smart Local Energy Systems (SLES), LDP, Local Area Energy Plans (LAEP) etc Align evidence underlying these policies to support policy integration and delivery 2023 2023 energy projects through to business case aligned to Regional Energy Strategic Plans and DNO grid investment planning via the Local Energy Network Accelerator (LENZA Platform) Ofgem funded platform. Work to improve energy digital infrastructure and publishing in the Council supported by the Corporate Data Team. Involves data improvements, aggregation, update and publishing including actions to identify data gaps. 4.5 Undertake a review of the Council’s Scheme of Assistance for private homeowners considering legislative changes Scheme of Assistance Number of households assisted annually Average Annual Spend Scheme of Assistance Reviewed Number of households assisted Annual Spend Review Scheme of Assistance 2024 Housing (Martin Smith) Environmental Health (Kirsty Steven) Missing Shares Officer Scheme of Assistance was reviewed in June 2023 and will only be reviewed again if any relevant updated legislation requires this. The Missing Shares Service received 57 new enquiries with 22 ongoing from previous years and 49 enquiries resolved/closed in this period. A total of 10
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 38 buildings were supported with Missing Shares Payments in this period resulting in a repair value of £416,081 with a further 8 buildings supported with completing repairs with a total value of £25,600 with no Missing Shares required. Environmental Health responded to 28 enquiries in relation to both privately owned and rented properties during this period. Carried out 22 house pointing visits following requests from Housing Options team. The extended pilot term for the Missing Shares Service ended in September 2024 and was approved by committee for extension of the provision for a further 3 years until 2027 in order to collate further evidence of the success of the service, with updates to be provided in this period.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 39 4.6 Build new affordable housing to enhanced energy efficiency standards and encourage private developers to do so too Newbuild completions (SR and Private) Newbuild completions to Gold Standard (SR and private) LDP Newbuild completions (SR and Private) Increase in newbuild completions to Gold Standard (SR and private) Implement Design Guide to ensure all new affordable housing meet Gold Standard Ensure Design Guide continues to meet SG guidance on sustainability standards and principles 2023/24 2027 Housing (Nicola Lennon) Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) LHS Partner Kingdom HA has built: 49 homes with PV panels 12 of these with wastewater heat recovery 16 homes with air source heat pumps 4.7 Work with Scottish Government and other agencies to improve digital infrastructure particularly in rural communities Existing digital connectivity across rural communities Increased number of rural households digitally connected Explore digital infrastructure opportunities in rural communities Ongoing Economic Development (Graham Pinfield) Housing (Michelle Dow) Communities (David Stokoe) Following the completion of the Local Full Fibre Network (LFFN) program, which connected 136 of our buildings primarily in rural areas, PKC is continuing to collaborate with suppliers, government agencies, and other organizations to enhance connectivity. PKC hosted a Digital Engagement Project as part of our SPF funded regional investment initiatives. Officers from Tay Cities area, representing each of the four local authorities, engaged with suppliers to utilise broadband vouchers. This effort
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 40 aims to actively invest in infrastructure throughout the region, improving full fibre coverage whenever possible, as well as enhancing wireless connections where appropriate. Number of households receiving support: 2012 Number of premises with improved digital connectivity: 241 SBVS* 189 GBVS** A detailed report of the Broadband Voucher Project including maps showing areas where vouchers were claimed is available to view: UKSPF Taycities Digital Voucher Report *Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme **Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme 4.8 Take action to ensure that landlords and households are resilient to the Existing flood and climate change position within PKC Risk assessment of flooding and climate change in relation to Housing complete Understand existing flood and climate change risks Ongoing Ongoing Structures and Flooding (Rick Haynes) South Kinross Flood Protection Scheme: Scottish Government Notified, PKC Confirmed without modifications.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 41 possible effects of climate change and flooding and makes a positive contribution to reducing the risks and impacts of flooding and climate change in the longer term. Mitigations identified and action plan developed Identify mitigations and develop and implement action plan Ensure Design Guide continues to reflect ongoing challenges as a result of climate change Ongoing Housing (June McColl) Scottish Flood Forum Planning (Brenda Murray) 194 properties to be protected. The South Kinross FPS has received objections and as such the statutory process is to explore the basis for the objections. ScGov has decided this will be a Local Authority Hearing. The outcome of that LAH is one of the following: Confirmed Scheme with modifications, Confirmed Scheme without modifications, Scheme rejected. Timeline uncertain. South Kinross FPS: Statutory process requires consultation to be undertaken. Comrie Flood Protection Scheme: Advance Construction Works commenced. 189 properties to be protected. Comrie FPS is now being constructed with
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 42 expected to run until the end of Q2 2025/26. Frequent consultation events pre-construction as part of the information gathering and potential design sharing stages. During construction: Community newsletters issued periodically to cover key milestones. Also, site boards and presence for accessibility. A new regional resilience partnership, Climate Ready Tayside has been developed along with Dundee and Angus Councils to help build individual and community resilience. 4.9 Develop and deliver exemplar pilot projects that incorporate net zero planning across a range of sectors including fabric first, retro fitting Identify potential partners and projects Pilot exemplar projects Identify potential partners and projects Explore feasibility of potential projects Pilot feasible projects and evaluate findings Ongoing Ongoing 2024-27 Housing (Nicola Lennon) Housing Strategy (Kevin Divin) Pilot projects to install LIND battery system and to investigate retrofit opportunities in test blocks of properties at Glengarry Road and Colville House are ongoing. Colville House Project has been given approval to proceed with the Contract Strategy
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 43 and transport planning etc. now in place and proceeding to obtain a contractor. Glengarry Road project has completed the first phase of works (external) and now the internal work is about to commence onsite. The LIND battery is still in development to achieve a unit of suitable size for a domestic. Housing is continuing to install iOpt Environmental Sensors as an extension to their pilot project and Aico Environmental Sensors continue to be installed in Multi-Storeys, and also in the new chalets at Double Dykes. 4.10 Set out plans to address any local authority domestic stock where abeyances (delayed works due to human SHQS Performance 2021/22 Existing abeyances Improved SHQS Performance Reduction in abeyances Reduction in exemptions Develop and implement plan for addressing SHQS abeyances (for social reasons) and exemptions (subject to technical, disproportionate cost or Ongoing Housing (Nicola Lennon) Registered Social Landlords Data is provided on an annual basis at the time of the ARC return and available to view at the Scottish Housing Regulator
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 44 or social factors) or exemptions are applied, to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) Existing exemptions legal reasons) in Council stock Work to address SHQS failures or abeyances is always ongoing; it is part of managing our Council housing stock and can change for various reasons. The information collated for this Action is also provided and monitored as part of the SHQS ARC return submitted at the end of May every year. The majority of our SHQS failures relate to EESSH; we have a planned programme to address the EPC Band E and F properties before end of December 2025 in line with Scottish Government requirements. We will then move on to tackling low Band D properties. There will be some Band E and F properties that we are unable to improve given challenges such as lack of tenant access, reluctance to remove solid fuel heating
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 45 systems and due to the technical nature of the properties e.g. Listed Building requirements. 4.11 Use the learning from the existing Internet of Things pilot ‘Monitoring temperature humidity and CO2 in 50 homes to help tenants manage their energy, reduce fuel poverty and maintain their homes well’ with a view to scale it up. Pilot learning collated Scaled-up Plan developed Scaled-up plan approved Scaled-up plan implemented 2024 2026 Housing (June McColl) Tenant Liaison Officer The Housing Service currently has a total of 441 tenancies with iOpt sensors installed across the mainstream housing stock. All calls to the repairs service reporting issues of condensation, mould or possible dampness have a property inspection appointment scheduled which includes the offer of the installation of sensors. Positive outcomes and feedback have resulted from data collated and relevant action taken as a result. The Housing Service also has approximately 80 Aico sensors installed within multi storey blocks as part of the Capital Multi Storey
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 46 Refurbishment Project to evidence impact. 4.12 Facilitate the delivery of low- cost, high- speed broadband into social housing in partnership with the private sector and investors using fibre infrastructure roll-out. TBD % of social housing with access to gigabit- capable broadband 10% of social housing by 25% of social housing by 50% of social housing by 60% of social housing by 2024 2025 2026 2027 Economic Development (Graham Pinfield) Registered Social Landlords 63 new build social homes built with Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 47 Glossary Acronym / Word / Term Definition / Meaning Accessible home Home with additional, non-standard features that meets the needs of the occupier. Affordable home / Affordable housing Scotland’s fourth National Planning Framework defines this as “Good quality homes that are affordable to people on low incomes. This can include social rented, mid-market rented, shared- ownership, shared equity, housing sold at discount (including plots for self-build), self-build plots and low-cost housing without subsidy.” Affordability Rents are considered to be affordable if a household pays no more than 25%-35% of their income on housing costs AHP Affordable Housing Programme AHSP Affordable Housing Supply Programme Ambulant Non-wheelchair adapted housing for people with disabilities ARC Annual Return on the Charter ASB Anti-Social Behaviour ASHP Air Source Heat Pump Below Market Housing Property where the market rent is below the average market rent for the size and location Brownfield Defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as “a property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.” The term typically describes areas of land that were once used for commercial or industrial purposes such as factories and warehouses. CAB Citizens Advice Bureau CAP Common Allocations Policy CHR Common Housing Register CLH Community Led Housing Projects are where the following three characteristics are in place: 1) Open, meaningful, community participation and consent takes place throughout the process 2. The community groups owns, manages, or stewards the homes in whichever way they decide 3) The housing development is of true benefit either for the local community, a specific group of people (an intentional community), or both. These benefits should be legally protected in perpetuity. Complex Needs As defined by the Scottish Government ‘Coming Home’ Report 2018, this is used to refer to people with learning disabilities who also have one or more of the following: Severe challenging behaviour (it is noted that this may include behaviour, which is not severe in itself, but becomes severe due to its high frequency) Forensic support needs Mental health needs Autism Profound and multiple disabilities Core and Cluster Typically, a cluster of 6 to 8 homes for people with independent living needs with a core staff based providing 24/7 shared support. COSLA Convention of Scottish Local Authorities
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 48 Acronym / Word / Term Definition / Meaning CPP Community Planning Partnership EBI Estate-Based Initiatives EESSH Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing EHI Empty Homes Initiative EPC Energy Performance Certificate EqIA Equalities Impact Assessment EST Energy Savings Trust FIT Feed In Tariff Floating Housing Support services A short-term, flexible, responsive service aimed at enabling vulnerable individuals who are at potential risk of losing their tenancy to live independently or to maximise their independence. GIRFEC Getting it Right for Every Child Greenfield A greenfield site is an undeveloped land that can be used for commercial or residential development. HAG Housing Association Grant HCS Housing Contribution Statement HEAT Home Energy Advice Team commissioned by PKC and provided by SCARF HEEPS-ABS Home Energy Efficiency Programmes Scotland - Area-Based Scheme HES Home Energy Scotland HfVN Housing for Varying Need HHCRO Home Heating Cost Reduction Obligation HIBS Heat in Buildings Strategy HLR Housing Land Requirement HMA Housing Market Area HMO House in Multiple Occupation HNDA Housing Need and Demand Assessment Home First model In Perth and Kinross, Home First provides a settled home as a first response when homelessness occurs with the aim of minimising the impact of homelessness for individuals and families, avoiding the stigma, cost, and uncertainty of temporary accommodation where possible. See Advice for people who are or become homeless - Perth and Kinross Council (pkc.gov.uk) HOSA Housing Options Self-Assessment Tool Housing Stock The total number of houses and flats in an area. HRA Housing Revenue Account HSCP Health and Social Care Partnership HST The Housing Supply Target is a policy view of the number of homes PKC has agreed will be delivered in each housing market area over the periods of the Local Development Plan and the Local Housing Strategy. It considers wider economic, social, and environmental factors, issues of capacity, resources, and deliverability. ILP Perth and Kinross Independent Living Panel IOT Internet of Things
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 49 Acronym / Word / Term Definition / Meaning Intermediate Housing Refers to privately rented housing that is below the cost of market rented housing but above the cost of housing for social rent. Sometimes called mid-market rent or below market rent. LAEP Local Area Energy Plans LCHO Low Cost Home Ownership LDP Local Development Plan Learning Disability The keys to life explains this is a significant lifelong condition which is present prior to the age of 18 and which has a significant effect on a person’s development. People with a learning disability will need more support than their peers to: Understand information Learning skills and Lead independent lives LHA Local Housing Allowance LHCS Local House Condition Survey LHEES Local Housing Energy Efficiency Scheme LHS Local Housing Strategy Mainstream Housing General needs housing is housing with no adaptations or particular features and can be of various sizes and types. MAPPA Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements Market Housing Housing in a community which has rent or payment at a rate at or near Average Market Rent Missing Share Local authorities have the power to pay 'missing shares' when 1) one or more owners are unwilling or unable to pay 2) the owner cannot be found after reasonable enquiries 3) it is unreasonable to ask an owner to pay where a minority of owners do not pay their share of common repairs MMR Mid-Market Rent OT Occupational Therapy Out of Area This is when a person with support needs is living within a placement that is not within their own funding authority and could include living in either an NHS or private hospital. Owner-occupied Property which is lived in by people who have bought it rather than people who pay rent PRS Private Rented Sector RHI Renewable Heat Incentive RRTP Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan RSL Registered Social Landlord (Housing Association) RTO Registered Tenant Organisation SCARF Save Cash and Reduce Fuel SDP Strategic Development Plan SDS Self-Directed Support Self-Build Homes built or commissioned by individuals or groups of individuals for their own use. Homes built this way, offer a unique alternative to standard market housing, and offer the opportunity to create innovative, greener, and more affordable homes than currently offered through standard housing options.
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Perth and Kinross LHS Annual Progress Report 2024-2025 June 2025 50 Acronym / Word / Term Definition / Meaning SG Scottish Government SGN Scottish Gas Networks SHCS Scottish House Condition Survey SHIP Strategic Housing Investment Plan SHQS Scottish Housing Quality Standard. The SHQS was introduced in 2004 and is the main way to measure housing quality in the social rented sector. It is the minimum standard which all social rented properties must meet SHR Scottish Housing Regulator Shared Equity A type of housing tenure where ownership is shared between the occupier and a third party, usually a council or Scottish Government SLES Smart Local Energy Systems SMART technology Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology include sensors and devices, systems and applications that use WiFi and technology to help support with a range of housing related services which can range from everyday practical tasks, independent living, and ensuring the home environment is energy efficient. Social Housing Properties provided by local authorities or Housing Associations which are more affordable than housing on the open market. STLs Short Term Lets Supported Housing This is an umbrella term used to describe a wide range of housing- based options for people with support needs. See Accommodation Guide to Independent Living for more info. TEC Technology Enabled Care Tenure Refers to legal method of housing ownership and occupation, for example, owner occupied, private rented, below market rent, shared equity, social rent, shared ownership. ‘All tenure’ refers to all housing assets across the tenure categories listed above VAWP Perth and Kinross Violence Against Women Partnership