Agenda Document Pack - Communities and Housing Policy Board - 18/08/2026
Renfrewshire Council · 18 August 2026
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11/08/2026 Notice of Meeting and Agenda Communities and Housing Policy Board Date Time Venue Tuesday, 18 August 2026 13:00 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire), Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN Membership Councillor Marie McGurk (Convener): Councillor Robert Innes (Vice Convener): Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson: Councillor Jacqueline Cameron: Councillor Graeme Clark: Councillor Carolann Davidson: Councillor Gillian Graham: Councillor John Hood: Councillor James MacLaren: Councillor Kenny MacLaren: Councillor Mags MacLaren: Councillor Janis McDonald: Councillor Cathy McEwan: Councillor Iain McMillan: Councillor John McNaughtan: Councillor Kevin Montgomery: Councillor Emma Rodden: Further Information This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk Members of the Press and Public Members of the press and public wishing to attend the meeting should report to the customer service centre where they will be met and directed to the meeting. Hybrid Meeting Please note that this meeting is scheduled to be held in the Council Chambers. However, it is a hybrid meeting and arrangements have been made for members to join the meeting remotely should they wish. MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance Page 1 of 366
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11/08/2026 Webcasting of Meeting This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed. To find the webcast please navigate to https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home Page 2 of 366
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11/08/2026 Items of business Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1 Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub-committee Minute of meeting of the Police and Fire & Rescue Scrutiny Sub- committee held on 19 May 2026. 2 General Services Revenue, Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and Capital Budget Monitoring as at 19 June 2026 Joint report by Directors of Finance & Resources and Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 6 - 16 3 Service Update Report Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 17 - 31 4 Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire – Year 5 Update Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 32 - 46 5 Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 47 - 123 6 Housing Landlord Compliance – Damp and Mould Policy Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 124 - 141 7 Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 142 - 174 8 Housing Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2026/27 Award of Funding Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 175 - 179 Page 3 of 366
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11/08/2026 9 Local Housing Strategy 2023/28 – Year 3 (2025/26) Progress Update Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 180 - 205 10 Draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027/32 Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 206 - 242 11 Regulation of Social Housing: Assurance Statement 2026 Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 243 - 274 12 Surplus declaration of land at Dundonald Avenue, Johnstone Report by Chief Executive. 275 - 277 13 Allocation of property to staff, elected member or committee members: Housing Rule 2.5 Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 278 - 279 14 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/27 Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 280 - 325 15 Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 - Consultation on packaging, appearance and display Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 326 - 345 16 Fireworks and Pyrotechnics in the UK - Consultation by the Office for Product Safety and Standards Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 346 - 354 17 Community Funding Update Report by Chief Executive. 355 - 366 Exclusion of Press and Public The Board may by resolution exclude the press and public from the meeting during consideration of the following items of business as it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted, that if members of the press and public are present, there could be disclosure to them of exempt information as defined in paragraph 9 of Part I of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. Page 4 of 366
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11/08/2026 Exempt Item Exempt documents are no longer available in print format. You will require to click on this link and log in to access the documents. Please note that access to exempt documents is now restricted. 18 Proposed Sale - 49 Ferguson Avenue, Renfrew Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. 19 Proposed Sale - 35 Windsor Crescent, Paisley Report by Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure. Page 5 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Finance and Resources & Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: General Services Revenue, Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and Capital Budget Monitoring as at 19 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 At the close of reporting Period 3 on 19 June 2026, the projected revenue outturn at 31 March 2027 for those services reporting to the Communities and Housing Policy Board, including the Housing Revenue Account, is an underspend of £0.425m against the revised budget for the year in General Services, and a break-even position in the HRA. 1.2 The projected capital outturn at 31 March 2027 for projects reporting to the Communities and Housing Policy Board is a break-even position. 1.3 This is summarised over the relevant services in the table below and further analysis is provided in the report and appendices. Revised Annual Budget £000 Projected Outturn £000 Budget Variance (Adv)/Fav £000 Budget Variance % Revenue Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 0 0 0 0.0% Housing – General Services (Non-HRA) 4,645 4,645 0 0.0% Communities and Public Protection 5,222 5,222 0 0.0% Justice Social Work 5,823 5,398 425 7.3% Total 15,690 15,265 425 2.7% Item 2 Page 6 of 366
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PUBLIC Revised Annual Budget £000 Projected Outturn £000 Budget Variance (Adv)/Fav £000 Budget Variance % Capital Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 40,808 40,808 0 0.0% Other Housing PSHG 1,083 1,083 0 0.0% Total 41,891 41,891 0 0.0% ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Notes the projected Revenue outturn underspend position of £0.425m. 2.2 Notes the projected Capital outturn break-even position. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Revenue Budget Projection – underspend of £0.425m by 31 March 2027 3.1 The tables in Appendix 1 present the projected year-end position for all services reporting to this Board, by both subjective analysis (what the budget is spent on) and objective analysis (which division is spending the budget). Significant variances affecting the projected position are analysed further below. 3.2 It should be noted that the projected outturn position reported here is based on the latest information available, which is subject to change during the financial year. Budget holders are obliged to seek mitigating action to minimise significant budget variances. 4. Objective Analysis – Significant Variances 4.1 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) - break-even by 31 March 2027 The HRA is projected to achieve a break-even position in 2026/27. Whilst repairs and maintenance expenditure continues to be a budget pressure, current forecasts indicate that costs can be contained within available resources. Budget holders will continue to monitor expenditure and take appropriate mitigating action to minimise any variance from budget. Page 7 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.2 Housing – General Services (Non-HRA) – break-even by 31 March 2027 The projected outturn position for Homelessness within Housing – General Services (Non-HRA) remains challenging in 2026/27. Current service demands are being managed within existing resources, supported in part by additional staffing funded through migration and asylum grants provided by the UK and Scottish Governments. The current level of homeless applications in Renfrewshire is creating additional demand across services and presents a potential longer-term financial risk. To respond to this demand, the service has increased the provision of temporary accommodation properties / rooms. Whilst this has resulted in additional costs, current forecasts indicate that these are being offset by income generated from temporary accommodation charges. The position will continue to be closely monitored, with budget holders taking appropriate mitigating action to manage emerging financial pressures. Updated forecasts will be reported to future meetings of the Communities and Housing Policy Board as required. 4.3 Communities and Public Protection - break-even by 31 March 2027 The service is projecting a breakeven position with some under recoveries in income targets being offset by underspends being achieved elsewhere in the service. 4.4 Justice Social Work – underspend of £0.425m by 31 March 2027 The approved budget for 2026/27 currently includes £874,903 in relation to an internal recharge from Children's Social Work for shared costs such as management and commissioned services. The expected internal recharge for 2026/27 is £475,000, consistent with the recharge for 2025/26. Therefore, there is currently a forecast underspend of £399,903. Some of this available budget may be re-allocated during 2026/27 to other expenditure lines should this become necessary. 5. Subjective Analysis – Significant Variances GENERAL SERVICES (excluding HRA) 5.1 Employees – £0.588m underspend by 31 March 2027 Underspends within Communities and Public Protection are primarily attributable to savings arising from an ongoing staffing restructure, together with vacant posts within the Justice Social Work Service. Page 8 of 366
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PUBLIC 5.2 Premises Related – (£0.126m) overspend by 31 March 2027 This includes increased temporary accommodation costs within the Homelessness Service, which are currently being offset through income generated from temporary accommodation charges. The forecast overspend also includes an additional contribution to Police Scotland towards accommodation costs associated with the CCTV service. HOUSING REVENUE ACCOUNT (HRA) 5.3 Premises Related costs – (£0.146m) overspend by 31 March 2027 Demand for repairs and maintenance within the HRA remains high and continues to place pressure on the budget. Expenditure trends and service demand are being closely monitored, with budget holders continuing to identify and implement mitigating actions to manage these pressures within the overall budget provision. Premises-related costs, including utilities and estate management, remain subject to fluctuations in demand and will continue to be monitored throughout the year. 5.4 Income - £0.112m over-recovery by 31 March 2027 A favourable variance is currently projected due to forecast rental income exceeding budget assumptions. Income levels and property numbers will continue to be monitored throughout the year to assess the sustainability of this position and any impact on the projections. 6. Revenue Budget Virements 6.1. Under the Council’s financial regulations, Directors, and their nominated officers, in consultation with the Director of Finance and Resources, have certain delegated authority to transfer sums between subjective budget headings within a service division to enable budget management throughout the financial year. This is known as ‘budget virement’. 6.2. Transfers between divisions of the same service / department in excess of £100,000, and transfers between services / departments must be authorised by the respective service Director and the Director of Finance and Resources for submission to the relevant policy Board for approval. Page 9 of 366
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PUBLIC 6.3. The Board is asked to note the following virements to reflect this realignment of budgets within the following areas: Revenue Budget Adjustments for noting Objective Heading Subjective Heading Amount (£m) Reason HRA Employees 0.189 Temporary funding to establish Empty Homes Team. HRA Premises Related (0.189) Temporary funding to establish Empty Homes Team. Regulatory & Wardens Income (0.100) Alignment of income budgets within Public Protection and Directorate Justice Social Work Employees 1.758 Additional Funding out with Settlement. 7. Capital Budget Projection – break-even position by 31 March 2027 7.1 The Non-Housing Capital Investment Programme 2026/27 to 2035/36 was approved by the Council on 26 February 2026. For Communities and Housing Services the revised capital spend for 2026/27 is £41.891m. 7.2 The in-year Capital budget is forecast to break even by 31 March 2027. Budget adjustments have taken place between years in the Private Sector Housing Grant programme totalling £0.333m to reflect revised timing, mainly in relation to disability adaptations. Implications of the Report 1. Financial The projected budget outturn position for the Communities and Housing Revenue budget is an underspend of £0.425m at 31 March 2027. Income and expenditure will continue to be monitored closely for the rest of the financial year and as far as possible, steps will be taken to mitigate any overspend. The projected outturn position for Communities and Housing Services Capital budget is break-even, after the adjustments outlined in section 7. 2. HR & Organisational Development While staffing budgets form a significant proportion of the Council’s revenue budgets, there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. Page 10 of 366
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PUBLIC 3. Community/Council Planning Community Plan Our Renfrewshire is thriving The Council’s revenue and capital spend ensures that its facilities are fit for purpose and safe for the community, to maximise accessibility. Our Renfrewshire is well Our Renfrewshire is fair Our Renfrewshire is safe Council Plan Reshaping our place, our economy, and our future The Council’s revenue and capital spend ensures that its facilities are fit for purpose and safe for the community, to maximise accessibility. Building strong, safe, and resilient communities Tackling inequality, ensuring opportunities for all Creating a sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy Ongoing revenue and capital budget monitoring is a tool to enable good financial management so that the Council has resources now and in the future for continued service delivery. Working together to improve outcomes 4. Legal There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 5. Property/Assets The capital expenditure noted in this report will result in lifecycle maintenance improvements to existing properties and replacement of ICT assets and infrastructure. 6. Information Technology ICT assets and revenue costs are included within these reported budgets, and the costs associated with the replacement of the Housing Management system will have both a capital budget and an ongoing revenue impact. 7. Equality & Human Rights While new areas of spend may impact on particular groups, any such impact would be assessed prior to the spend being incurred, therefore there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 8. Health & Safety The capital expenditure noted in this report will result in lifecycle maintenance improvements to existing properties and replacement of ICT assets, which may in some cases enhance health and safety measures. 9. Procurement While Procurement is an important consideration prior to the Council incurring any revenue or capital spend, there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. Page 11 of 366
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PUBLIC 10. Risk The potential financial risk that the Council will overspend its approved revenue budgets for the year is managed at a Council-wide level by the Chief Executive and Directors. 11. Privacy Impact There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 12. Climate Change The Council aims to reduce its carbon and other emissions to net zero by 2030, however there are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 13. Children’s Rights There are no direct implications arising from the recommendations in this report. 14. Cosla Policy Position N/a. List of Background Papers • Housing Revenue Account Budget & Rent Levels 2026/27 and Housing Capital Investment Plan 2026/27 to 2030/31, Council 26 February 2026. • Non-housing Capital Investment Programme, Prudential Framework and Treasury Management Strategy, and Capital Strategy 2026/27 – 2035/36, Council 26 February 2026. Author: John Kilpatrick, Finance Business Partner, Linsey McGregor, Capital Accountant. Page 12 of 366
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PUBLIC RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING STATEMENT 2026/27 1 April 2026 to 19 June 2026 POLICY BOARD: COMMUNITIES AND HOUSING - All SERVICES Objective Summary Approved Annual Budget Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 3 Projected Outturn Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 0 0 0 0 0 0.0% Housing - General Services (Not HRA) 4,645 0 4,645 4,645 0 0.0% Communities and Public Protection (including Regulatory Services) 5,317 (95) 5,222 5,222 0 0.0% Justice Social Work 4,039 1,784 5,823 5,398 425 7.3% NET EXPENDITURE 14,001 1,689 15,690 15,265 425 2.7% Page 13 of 366
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PUBLIC RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING STATEMENT 2026/27 1 April 2026 to 19 June 2026 POLICY BOARD: COMMUNITIES AND HOUSING - GENERAL SERVICES (excluding HRA) Subjective Summary Approved Annual Budget Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 3 Projected Outturn Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % Employees 11,376 3,062 14,438 13,850 588 4.1% Premises Related 2,814 24 2,838 2,964 (126) (4.4%) Transport Related 236 21 257 288 (31) (12.1%) Supplies and Services 4,525 1,310 5,835 5,877 (42) (0.7%) Third Party Payments 2 0 2 0 2 100.0% Transfer Payments 3,662 (354) 3,308 3,318 (10) (0.3%) Support Services 49 (3) 46 44 2 4.3% Depreciation and Impairment Losses 0 0 0 0 0 0.0% GROSS EXPENDITURE 22,664 4,060 26,724 26,341 383 1.4% Income (8,663) (2,371) (11,034) (11,076) 42 0.4% NET EXPENDITURE 14,001 1,689 15,690 15,265 425 2.7% Page 14 of 366
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PUBLIC RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING STATEMENT 2026/27 1 April 2026 to 19 June 2026 POLICY BOARD : COMMUNITIES, HOUSING AND PLANNING SERVICES - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Only Subjective Summary Approved Annual Budget Budget Adjustments Revised Annual Budget at Period 3 Projected Outturn Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 % Employees 14,913 217 15,130 15,061 69 0.5% Premises Related 25,643 (189) 25,454 25,600 (146) (0.6%) Transport Related 56 0 56 75 (19) (33.9%) Supplies and Services 1,006 3 1,009 1,007 2 0.2% Third Party Payments 0 0 0 0 0 0.0% Transfer Payments 7,176 1 7,177 7,176 1 0.0% Support Services 3,378 0 3,378 3,397 (19) (0.6%) Depreciation and Impairment Losses 19,240 0 19,240 19,240 0 0.0% GROSS EXPENDITURE 71,412 32 71,444 71,556 (112) (0.2%) Income (71,412) (32) (71,444) (71,556) 112 0.2% NET EXPENDITURE 0 0 0 0 0 0.0% Page 15 of 366
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PUBLIC Approved Budget Revised Projected Total Approved Projected Budget Adjustments Budget Outturn Budget Outurn Project Title 2026-27 since previous 2026-27 2026-27 to 31-Mar-31 to 31-Mar-31 Board report £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 HOUSING(HRA) Improvements To Existing Properties 16,863 0 16,863 16,863 0 0% 206,108 206,108 0 0% Regeneration 11,185 0 11,185 11,185 0 0% 102,587 102,587 0 0% Other Assets 2,810 0 2,810 2,810 0 0% 19,128 19,128 0 0% Non Property Expenditure 1,500 0 1,500 1,500 0 0% 2,300 2,300 0 0% Council House New Build 6,700 0 6,700 6,700 0 0% 29,843 29,843 0 0% Professional Fees 1,750 0 1,750 1,750 0 0% 10,662 10,662 0 0% Total Housing (HRA) Programme 40,808 0 40,808 40,808 0 0% 370,628 370,628 0 0% HOUSING(PSHG) Private Sector Housing Grant 750 333 1,083 1,083 0 0% 5,274 5,274 0 0% Total Housing (PSHG) Programme 750 333 1,083 1,083 0 0% 5,274 5,274 0 0% TOTAL COMMUNITIES, HOUSING & PLANNING BOARD 41,558 333 41,891 41,891 0 0% 375,902 375,902 0 0% Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable Budget Variance (Adverse) or Favourable RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL CAPITAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY 1st April to 19th June 2026 POLICY BOARD: COMMUNITES & HOUSING Current Year 2026-27 Full Programme - All years Page 16 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Service Update Report ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 This report provides an overview of key service activities since the last Policy Board report on 19 May 2026 and an update on the services and key projects delivered during this period. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Note the contents of this report. ___________________________________________________________________ Updates for Communities and Housing Policy Board 3. Housing Services 3.1 Housing Management Income Advice 3.1.1 Information from advice interviews at the end of July 2026 confirms that over 2,005 income advice cases involved households from Council tenancies this financial year. 3.1.2 During these interviews staff assess any entitlements to assistance that are due and support people to access benefits they are eligible for, alongside giving advice on all money matters and budgeting. Item 3 Page 17 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.1.3 There are several sources of additional assistance accessed which can include universal credit/ housing benefit, attendance allowance and disability payment, food vouchers and many more. 3.1.4 In monetary terms this equates to £1,129,274.96 between 1st April 2026 and 31st July 2026. 3.1.5 Between 1st April 2026 and 31st July 2026 149 tenants were referred for Tenant Support Fund assessment, which have the added value of full income assessment and advice provision. 3.1.6 Of the referrals 135 have engaged with Specialist Income Advisors and 93 have qualified for assistance from the fund. Housing Perks App 3.1.7 The Housing Service is currently exploring the potential introduction of the Housing Perks App for Renfrewshire Council tenants. Housing Perks is a social enterprise mobile application, available through Apple and Google app stores, which provides access to savings of between 3% and 12% with over 200 retailers. The app also allows tenants to allocate savings generated through their purchases directly to their rent account, helping to support tenancy sustainment and reduce financial pressures on households. 3.1.8 The service is assessing the viability of implementing Housing Perks locally and reviewing the potential benefits for tenants, particularly in relation to managing household costs and preventing rent arrears. The application is already used by more than 70 social landlords, including housing providers within Renfrewshire, and has over one million registered tenancies. 3.1.9 Subject to the outcome of this assessment, consideration will be given to introducing a pilot scheme. A further report will be brought to the Communities and Housing Policy Board in due course setting out the findings of the assessment and recommendations on next steps. 3.2 Housing Innovation Project (HIP) 3.2.1 Phase 1 of the project continues to progress well and has just entered the second cycle of testing. A nine-week training programme for all staff who will use the new system begins in August 2026. The anticipated go live for Phase 1 remains Quarter 3 2026. 3.2.2 Phase 2 is gathering momentum and continues to progress in line with the agreed project timescales, with design workshops underway across both housing repairs and housing assets workstreams. 3.3 Homeless Services 3.3.1 Homeless demand levels are continuing to be challenging, with the number of households who were statutorily homeless in Renfrewshire at the end of June 2026 being 524 (a 42% increase since April 2023). Page 18 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.3.2 The impact of this increase in demand is felt across the service and has seen a rise in the number of households placed in temporary accommodation to 305. 3.3.3 The ‘Homelessness Action Plan for Renfrewshire’ which was approved by the Policy Board in May 2026 now provides a comprehensive route-map for the Council and partners, which will ensure that all possible measures are being implemented to provide everyone with temporary accommodation who needs it, and that the time they spend in temporary accommodation is minimised. 3.3.4 Our Action Plan was discussed and reviewed with the Scottish Housing Regulator at a meeting held in May 2026 and will be jointly reviewed with them again later in the year. Independent consultants, ‘Scotland’s Housing Network’ have now been appointed to critically evaluate our Action Plan, as well as support us in the delivery of the key measures. 3.3.5 A review of the progress with the first 6 months implementation of the Homelessness Action Plan for Renfrewshire will be provided to the Policy Board in January 2027. 3.4. Refugee Resettlement 3.4.1 The Service continues to respond to national/local priorities and has recently worked in partnership with the British Red Cross and neighbouring councils to develop trauma-informed support for families affected by the conflict in Gaza, with family support sessions carried out in July 2026. 3.4.2 Our Wellbeing Hub continues to deliver activities that promote integration and strengthen community cohesion. As part of the national Refugee Week, it showcased artwork at an exhibition held at ‘Off the High Street’ in the Paisley Centre, on people’s journeys to Renfrewshire and their experiences of living here. The artwork was created through sessions delivered with partners such as Open Aye, Made in Paisley, Impact Arts, and our own health and wellbeing support staff. 3.4.3 The continued development and enhancement of the provision of English- speaking lessons (ESOL) remains a core focus for the service, and in collaboration with West College and Community Learning and Development (CLAD) colleagues, there will be a further expansion of targeted ESOL provision. 3.5 Housing Support Team 3.5.1 Our ‘New Harbour Project’ continues to provide housing support to individuals at risk of homelessness - with a particular focus on those experiencing complex needs associated with alcohol use. Page 19 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.5.2 The initiative now supports 27 service users (20 men and 7 women), with referrals coming from Homeless Services, Alcohol Drugs and Recovery Services (ADRS), and Criminal Justice Social Work. Established partnerships with Kairos Women's Group, Circle, RCA Trust and Street Connect continue to strengthen the provision of specialist support and improved access to services. 3.5.3 Sustaining settled housing continues to be a key priority for the New Harbour Project, with tailored support provided around budgeting, benefits, and tenancy related matters. Close collaboration with Local Housing Teams and the Repairs service has enabled accommodation issues to be resolved promptly, supporting tenancy sustainment. 3.5.4 Performance during the first four months of the New Harbour project has been particularly encouraging, with client numbers doubling and no tenancy breakdowns recorded among services users. 3.5.5 A review on the impact of this project, which has been funded by the Council and the Alcohol & Drug Partnership, will be carried out in early 2027. 3.6 Sheltered Housing 3.6.1 The Sheltered and Amenity Housing Service continues to support the national analogue-to-digital transition and are currently working with partners to scope out options for replacing the existing ‘warden call’ system at our 10 complexes with a more modern, flexible, resilient and person-centred digital solution. This will help ensure tenants continue to receive safe, reliable support while improving the customer experience and reducing reliance on outdated systems. 3.6.2 A key priority is to engage tenants, families and staff throughout the programme of change. Consultation events, information sessions and opportunities for feedback will help ensure tenants understand the proposed developments and can influence how services are delivered. 3.7 Service Improvement: Renfrewshire Council’s Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) Agreement 3.7.1 Renfrewshire Council’s Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) Agreement has been updated to take account of a number of statutory provisions coming into force on 1 August 2026 and the final provisions that will come into effect on 6 October 2026. These provisions include: • Part 2 (Section 22) of the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 (termination of tenancies in cases involving abusive behaviour) from 1 August 2026. • Section 49 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 (qualifying period for succession) from 1 August 2026. • Section 50 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 (delivery of notices) from 1 August 2026; and Page 20 of 366
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PUBLIC • Regulation 4 of The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 (Awaab’s Law) from 6 October 2026. 3.7.2 The main changes reflected in the updated Renfrewshire Council Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) Agreement relate to: • Recently enacted powers that will enable landlords in certain domestic abuse related cases to pursue an ‘Order for Termination’ of a joint tenant’s interest in a tenancy. • Succession timeframes changing from 12 months to 6 months. • Clarity in terms of the delivery and service of documents and Notices; and • New duties on landlords in relation to rising damp and penetrating mould, which come into effect on 6 October 2026, including targeted timescales for investigation, reporting and remediation. 3.7.3 In addition to the changes arising from the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021; the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025; and The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, minor amendments have also been made to the Agreement to clarify tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities in relation to withholding rent and online harassment. 3.8 Housing Asset and Investment Single Building Assessments Progress (SBAs) 3.8.1 SBAs are a comprehensive, whole-building safety evaluation, for multi residential buildings in Scotland with external cladding, to assess risks to human life from the building's external wall system and any necessary remediation work. This standardised assessment evaluates the entire building's fire safety, including internal measures, and structural soundness, providing a consistent report to determine what work is needed to reduce any safety concerns to an acceptable level. 3.8.2 Grant funding of £800,000 from the Scottish Government’s Cladding Remediation Programme was received in 2025 and the first two SBAs were commissioned for Nethercraigs and Gleniffer Courts. Initial SBAs reports have been received and submitted for review by the Scottish Government. 3.8.3 The remaining twelve multi storeys and two mid-rise blocks are currently being surveyed by Firntec, and it is anticipated the draft reports will be ready by the end of October 2026. The draft reports will be submitted to the Scottish Government for review, in line with the process set out by the Scottish Government. Page 21 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.8.4 We continue to liaise with the Scottish Government on SBAs progress and the availability of funding to carry out certain remedial works. The Scottish Government have advised that once all SBAs in Scotland have been completed, reviewed and approved, a matrix of all remedial actions will be designed to inform the allocation of funding based on prioritising those properties with the highest level of risk and urgency of remedial measures required. 3.8.5 Additional fire safety measures have been undertaken in all high-rise blocks to gather information on vulnerable tenants and to carry out fire safety checks including ensuring smoke detection devices are operational. Information on vulnerable tenants is held in in fire safety boxes at each block which can be accessed by Scottish Fire & Rescue in the event of an incident requiring evacuation. These records will be updated regularly to ensure changes in tenancy and changes in vulnerability are kept up to date. 4. YouDecide Tenant Fund Update 4.1 A report to Policy Board on 16th May outlined the approach to Year 1 and Year 2 of the YouDecide Tenant Fund, together with a summary of the number of successful projects. The YouDecide Tenant Fund project and voting process was widely publicised, with all Council tenants receiving details of the online portal and unique login credentials for submissions and voting. Elected Members and Housing Services officers were also pre-registered to support participation where required. Leaflets and posters were displayed within local communities to raise awareness of the initiative. 4.2 30 projects were identified, with 16 projects voted to proceed by Council tenants in Year 1. Ahead of works commencing, signage is erected to highlight that the improvements are being delivered through the YouDecide Tenant Fund programme. Project information is available on the YouDecide portal and the Council’s website and, going forward, local elected members will also be notified directly of projects progressing within their ward areas. Area Project Description Current Stage Johnstone & Villages The Oaks New paths either tarred or resin leading to seating areas at the communal garden at The Oaks sheltered housing complex. Works being tendered. Start date TBC. Johnstone & Villages Altpatrick Gardens Improve Area Upgrade of patio area. Start date to be agreed on appointment of contractor. Johnstone & Villages Provost Close Seating bench and planters. Start date to be agreed on appointment of contractor. Page 22 of 366
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PUBLIC Area Project Description Current Stage Johnstone & Villages Our Bridge of Weir Art Installation Notice board to display 4x A3 artwork under the banner “Our Bridge of Weir”. Notice board currently being manufactured. Works will commence within the next 2 months. Johnstone & Villages Bin Area Slabs for MacDowall Street Create new slabbed areas for bins in the back garden. Contractor appointed. Start date 25/08/26 Johnstone & Villages 21 MacDowall Street - Clean and Paint close Clean and paint close at 21 MacDowall Street. Contractor appointed. Start date to be agreed. Paisley North Bin Area for Ferguslie Walk, Paisley New recycle bin shed area for 16– 22 Ferguslie Walk. Currently being manufactured. Expected to be installed early September 2026 Paisley North New Bin Storage Area at 120-126 Ferguslie Main Road Remove hedges and wheelie bins and replace with new bin storage area. Contractor appointed. Start date to be agreed. Paisley North 13-31 Glen Street – Clean and Paint Close Clean and paint the close. Contractor appointed. Start date to be agreed. Paisley South Slabbed Bin Area Rowan Court Slabbed area for communal bins surrounded by fencing. Works commenced on site. Paisley South Slabbed Bin Area Hamilton Court Slabbed area for communal bins surrounded by fencing. Works commenced on site. Paisley South Recreational Area, rear of 21 Neilston Road Paved seating areas for tenants. Contractor appointed. Start date to be agreed. Paisley South Bin Area for 18 Achray Drive, Foxbar Create designated bin area. Works commenced on site. Paisley South Bin Area for 14 Achray Drive, Foxbar Create designated bin area. Works commenced on site. Page 23 of 366
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PUBLIC Area Project Description Current Stage Renfrew & Gallowhill Car Park Spaces Maximisation – Arkleston Re-lining of three car parks in the Arkleston area. Works scheduled to be completed by Roads team alongside ongoing works. Renfrew & Gallowhill 3 Leven Square – Clean & Paint Close Clean and paint the close. Contractor appointed. Start date to be agreed. 5. Public Protection 5.1 Community Safety 5.1.1 The Community Support Service will move to a new operating model in the Autumn and will be rebranded as the Environmental Enforcement and Parking Service. New Environmental Compliance Officers will have a focus on a number of environmental issues such as dog fouling, litter control, abandoned vehicles, smoking, parking enforcement and other public health nuisance. A data informed approach will be taken to proactively plan resources. Recruitment is currently underway to enhance the staffing compliment with the filling of a number of vacancies arising from the new service model. 5.1.2 The Service will operate between 8am-6pm seven days along with a standby service for any emergencies. 5.1.3 A new Environmental Crime Team has replaced the previous Environmental Task Force. This team now sits within Environmental Health and will have a focus on fly-tipping and Waste Duty of Care compliance. A review of the current fly-tipping process is currently underway to identify where improvements to enforcement can be made. Following this review a communications campaign will launch later in the year. 5.2 Environmental Health 5.2.1 Officers have carried out Health and Safety Interventions in three hotels which hosted guests for the Commonwealth Games. This intervention considered legionella controls, infection control, bedbug prevention, food safety as well as general health and safety issued. 5.2.2 Officers continue to undertake health and safety interventions in relation to gas safety in catering establishments and electrical safety in outdoor establishments. Page 24 of 366
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PUBLIC 5.2.3 A key area of concern in recent times has been electrical safety in retail premises, over the course of this year officers will be undertaking interventions in retail premises regarding the inappropriate use of electrical equipment, installation and maintenance by non-competent persons giving rise to potential electric shock and fire risks. We will be working in partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to ensure businesses are given the necessary support and guidance on their responsibilities in relation to fire safety. Communications materials are being developed jointly between the Council and SFRS to distribute to businesses during these interventions. 5.3 Trading Standards 5.3.1 Operation CECE work on illicit tobacco continues to make up a large part of the Team’s activities. One member of the Team has now taken up a post within the Scottish Illegal Tobacco Team, which is a central Team, hosted within North Lanarkshire Council Trading Standards service, and which is funded by HMRC to expand on existing Operation CECE success. The Team consists of a Manager, two Officers and two tobacco detection dogs and their handler. This resource will be available to support recovery activities by Local Authorities across Scotland and in particular to support authorities where no illicit tobacco enforcement has been undertaken to date. The vacant post will be advertised as soon as possible. 5.3.2 The Team are currently prioritising visits to independent shops to raise awareness of, and to recover “Squishies”, which are an emerging toy safety issue. These are small, sensory gel or foam toys, often shaped like food or small animals, and including imitation versions of well-known brands such as NeeDoh toys. Trading Standards Officers have removed a number of squeezy dumpling toys (often sold in plastic steamer baskets ) and ‘Salted Butter’ bar squeezy toys from shops across Renfrewshire. Testing of similar products by local authorities across UK has revealed serious safety concerns. The investigations identified a number of hazards, including: • Hazardous chemicals : some products contained excessive levels of toxic chemicals, including benzene, which can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation. • Missing safety information: many toys lacked legally required safety warnings, age restrictions, UK importer details and mandatory UKCA or CE conformity markings • Strong chemical odours : non-compliant products often give off a strong synthetic or petrol-like smell, which may indicate the presence of harmful substances. • Burn and explosion risks: a worrying social media trend has encouraged children to heat these toys in microwaves. Several incidents have resulted in children suffering serious burns after the toys burst, releasing boiling, glue-like gel that sticks to the skin. Page 25 of 366
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PUBLIC 5.3.3 Just over 770 items have been signed over for destruction, from 12 premises. Advice on toy safety and importation responsibilities has been given to a further 77 traders to date. Work continues on this project, to ensure as much product is recovered as possible. 6. Connected Communities 6.1.1 Inspectors from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland (HMIE) conducted a follow up visit as part of the inspection of Community Learning and Development and met with a range of staff and partners involved in CLD provision in Renfrewshire. Their feedback was positive, noting that partnership arrangements have been strengthened and the CLD Partnership are working more effectively to improve reporting arrangements. Moving forward, the Partnership will continue to consolidate and mature partnership arrangements and maintain the pace of improvement. HMIE have advised they do not need to do any further visits. 6.1.2 Work has now started to introduce the enhanced ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) provision, following a successful funding bid. The new ESOL offer will include enhanced partnership coordination of ESOL opportunities across Renfrewshire, as well as an enhanced and more flexible programme of ESOL learning opportunities. Recruitment is now underway for staff, and a new programme is anticipated to be in place in Autumn. 6.1.3 The review of youth provision in Renfrewshire is making good progress. The first stage of mapping current activity involving young people and partner agencies is complete. The next stage will be taking the findings of the mapping exercise back to focus groups with young people and partners to identify any gaps in provision either geographically or for communities of interest, understand key issues and discuss potential solutions and responses. 6.1.4 As part of the new Connected Communities service structure, two locality officers have been appointed to the Community Partnerships team within the service to support community development capacity across a range of Connected Communities projects. A Connected Communities Officer (Grants and Investment) has also been appointed to support various funding programmes delivered across the service. 6.1.5 A key focus over the summer period has been the delivery of the Summer Fun programme. Connected Communities deliver a wide range of activities over the summer, including the summer camp programme and community programme alongside our third sector partners. Page 26 of 366
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PUBLIC 6.1.6 The summer camp programme was supported by the Summer of Sport and provided activities for a range of children and young people aged 5 to 14 with 2300 spaces available. The programme included a range of sports, games, and craft activities, providing opportunities for children and young people to stay active, socialise and engage in positive activities during the school holidays. Alongside this, the team also delivered summer programmes for young people aged 12 and over through our youth centres at Bargarran, GoZone and Foxbar. Street Stuff also continued to deliver evening community activities within identified hotspot areas, including Dargavel and the Barsail Primary School community. 6.1.7 The Family Learning 4-week programme ran over the summer holidays with 4 sessions per week across communities in Southend, West Johnstone, Renfrew, and Erskine. A variety of engaging and inclusive activities was provided, e.g. physical wellbeing activities, creative play through arts and crafts, outdoor and nature-based experiences, cooking, and baking opportunities. 6.2 Other highlights from across the Connected Communities service in the period include: • Renfrewshire’s Safe Kids Programme was delivered again in partnership with the Renfrewshire Community Safety Partnership. 2,000 P6 pupils took part in interactive workshops where they learned about staying safe online, near water and railways, the risks of drugs and alcohol, gender-based violence, and how to recognise risks, and how to respond if something goes wrong. • 22 young people from Renfrewshire achieved their Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award and were recognised at the annual Gold Award Celebration at Holyrood Palace on 4th July. Achieving a Gold Award is a significant accomplishment and reflects the commitment and dedication of the young people involved, and their volunteering contribution to their communities. • Dreamz and Beanz Coffee Morning was hosted at Foxbar Youth Drop-In by young people who are supported by the CLD and our Promise Partners at Throughcare. The young people took part in a 6-week Barista training programme and are now working on their event planning and service skills to achieve their DYA's. The young people are building their communication skills and confidence and aiming to plan further events in the community. • The team has continued to offer community-based youth work with regular provision now being delivered from Glenburn GoZone Youth Centre and the Foxbar Youth Drop In. As engagement grows, we are working with young people to identify local needs and shape future provision that responds directly to the issues and opportunities they identify. Page 27 of 366
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PUBLIC • Work has continued to improve access to services and opportunities through local delivery of the National Entitlement Card (NEC) programme. During 2026, the team completed the annual P7 bulk process, ensuring pupils had access to free bus travel ahead of their transition to secondary school, reducing financial barriers for families, supporting independent travel, and promoting equitable access to education and wider opportunities. Of the approximately 1,923 P7 pupils, 1,410 chose to use the bulk process to either receive their first NEC or upgrade from the Junior NEC to a Young Scot NEC. This demonstrates continued demand for the locally supported application process alongside the national self-service system. • New Literacies partnerships have also been established with the Job Centre to help those who have long-term health conditions and are not ready to look for work. The Adult and Family Learning Outreach staff have been meeting with Glenburn Nurseries and Douglas Street Nursery parents to establish which adult learning groups are of interest and appropriate for their needs. • Community Learning and Development Officer, Emma Muir, was shortlisted in the YouthLink Youth Worker of the Year Awards in recognition of her work on gender-based violence delivered through the Young and Equally Safe in Renfrewshire programme. Emma was named runner up, which is a fantastic achievement and reflects both her commitment and the positive impact of this work with young people. 7. Justice Social Work (JSW) 7.1 Prisoner Release Activity 7.1.1 The Board has been updated over the last year about the significant pressures brought by a persistently high prison population and the corresponding Scottish Government actions surrounding the early release of prisoners. Passed in late 2024 the Prisoners (Early Release)(Scotland) Act 2025 reduced the release threshold from 50% to 40% for “short term prisoners” (those serving a custodial sentence under four years). 7.1.2 Further legislation was recently passed on 12 May 2026 which reduced this short-term prisoner threshold further, to 30% for eligible individuals. This change has been applied retrospectively with the intention of having an impact on prisons’ capacity. Like previous early release programmes, this new change has been managed across three phased “tranches” to support safe transitions into the community. The final tranche concluded on 25 June 2026 with approximately 240 prisoners reported to be released across Scotland. 7.1.3 In Renfrewshire, 12 people were released. This brought some additional activity in terms of assessment and support activity for Justice Social Work (JSW) but was generally manageable due to its short lived and structured nature. It is important to note that exclusions remain in place for short term prisoners convicted of domestic abuse or sexual offences who continue to serve at least 50% of their sentence prior to release. Page 28 of 366
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PUBLIC 7.2 Caledonian System 7.2.1 The Caledonian System is Scotland’s accredited integrated practice intervention approach for men convicted of domestic abuse offences. This Court mandated programme aims to improve the lives of women, children and men impacted by this crime. It provides an intensive, approximately 2-year programme for sentenced men (individual and groupwork), alongside trauma informed support for partners and children. 7.2.2 Positively, recurring funding of £187,826 has now been agreed by the Scottish Government and internal planning is now well underway to implement the Caledonian System in Renfrewshire. Although the programme specific funding being made available does not fully equate to its extensive staffing requirements, the need, value and importance of having programme provision that addresses domestic abuse offending available within Renfrewshire is high. 7.2.3 By augmenting the service’s specialist Pathway’s team with some additional professional staff via the new specific grant funding and creatively utilising and upskilling existing resource via S.27 justice social work ringfenced funding the programme’s implementation is now underway. There incorporates a clear, stepped plan to sustainably provide this programme across the JSW service for the coming years. Extensive specialist staff training, provided by the national Caledonian team, is scheduled to take place across September and October this year. Following this, the programme should then be an available option as a requirement of a Community Payback Order or post release license condition from November 2026. 7.3 Third sector partnerships 7.3.1 JSW continues to strengthen its partnerships with local organisations to provide community-based support and interventions to justice experienced people and support future desistance from offending behaviours. Based on positive, recent service user and professional feedback, the following partnership agreements have continued: • Kairos Women+ “A Place to Be”. This project offers trauma-informed, community-based unpaid work placements for women involved in the justice system. The project supports women through structured placements, mentoring, and skills development in a safe, welcoming women only environment. • Renfrewshire Association for Mental Health (RAMH) – “Trauma to Recovery”. This programme offers a structured 10-week educational programme delivered through the Recovery College model. By helping justice experienced people understand how trauma affects the brain and behaviour, using clear and accessible language it provides an early, trauma-informed intervention that supports people to stabilise, engage with services and move towards positive change. Page 29 of 366
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PUBLIC • The Tannahill Centre - Based in Ferguslie Park The community hub supports some people subject to unpaid work placements, providing a variety of suitable tasks, flexibly over 7 days a week. Its placements provides wider community benefit through supporting various local community tasks from gardening and maintenance activities to local community event support. The model is consistent, staffed, and well-established. There has also been individual benefit for those supported by the Centre. For example, it has offered some further volunteering opportunities after placements have finished and built stronger local, inclusive community connections. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – Any financial elements referenced in this report will be progressed through the Council’s financial & budget planning process. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – The report details a range of activities which reflect local community and council planning themes. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights – The recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None.. 12. Climate Risk – there are a range of actions and activities throughout the Service Update Report which support the Council’s Plan for Net Zero. 13. Children’s Rights – None. Page 30 of 366
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PUBLIC 14. Cosla Policy Position – None. __________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers: None. __________________________________________________________________ Author: Gordon McNeil, Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Email: gordon.mcneil@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 31 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire – Year 5 Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Renfrewshire Council’s Housing-Led Regeneration and Renewal Programme was approved by the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 18 January 2022 with amended proposals for three of the eight regeneration areas also approved on 15 March 2022. 1.2 This programme continues to be delivered as a key Council priority, designed to deliver maximum benefits for residents and with the active involvement of services across the Council and with partners to deliver modern, high quality, energy efficient, affordable Council housing that will not only significantly enhance the Council’s housing stock but is also contributing to the wider transformation of communities across Renfrewshire. 1.3 This report provides members with an update on the progress made to date with regard to improvement programmes, rehousing initiatives, demolition, newbuild and community engagement across each of the eight areas within the ten-year Housing-Led Regeneration and Renewal programme. __________________________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Notes the further positive progress made in each of the eight regeneration and renewal areas within this ambitious ten-year programme. Item 4 Page 32 of 366
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PUBLIC 2.2 Notes that additional measures of assistance for homeowners approved by this board are having a positive impact on the number of blocks proceeding to receive enhanced improvements across the investment programme, as set out at paragraph 4.5 of this report 2.3 Authorises the Head of Housing Services to promote a Compulsory Purchase Order in relation to the two remaining privately owned commercial properties in the Howwood Road Housing Regeneration Area outlined in Table 1, Section 4.8.5. __________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The scope, complexity and timescales for delivery of regeneration activity differ in each of the regeneration areas across the programme. Works continue in line with the phasing strategy developed to take account of delivery timescales, rehousing requirements, contractor availability, maximising grant support for owner participation and consideration of wider development constraints. 3.2 Officers are working across Council services and with tenants, residents and local community groups to ensure the voice of each community is represented for each regeneration and renewal area. The approach continues to be tailored to the needs and circumstances of each area, going beyond housing and the immediate external environment, and taking account of broader issues such as links to health and wellbeing, access to outdoor space and sustainable travel and employment or training opportunities that maximise the benefits achievable for local residents. 4. Regeneration and Renewal Area Update 4.1 This annual Regeneration and Renewal update report provides an opportunity to highlight the progress that has been made in each of the 8 regeneration areas across the programme. Some minor delays to the overall programme have been experienced with regard to the investment programme, mainly due to design clarifications and the complexity of achieving all necessary statutory approvals in advance of works commencing. Similarly, an update of the delivery of newbuild development within each area has been provided where relevant. Page 33 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.2 Positive progress continues with the acquisition of private properties where acquisition is required to facilitate demolition. Of the 89 privately owned residential properties identified at the outset, all 89 have been independently valued with 72 of these addresses now successfully acquired and in Council ownership. A further 14 owners have agreed to the voluntary acquisition of their properties and these transactions are with legal services to conclude. 5 addresses have potential to be subject to Compulsory Purchase Proceedings as previously authorised by this Board and this will be progressed if this is deemed necessary (2 of the 5 have already been demolished due to their condition). 3 further owners continue to negotiate currently. Table 1 below highlights the current position across the seven areas where demolition has been approved. Table 1 4.3 Demolition has been carried out on a phased basis, in line with the rehousing and acquisition strategy for each regeneration area. Where newbuild housing is proposed on the cleared sites, a key objective of this programme is to deliver homes of a suitable type and size that will meet current and future needs and to enable existing households to remain in the area where they choose to do so. 4.4 As previously reported, all Council tenants affected by demolition have been/are being offered suitable alternative accommodation in line with the Council’s housing allocation policy and will be entitled to apply for home-loss and disturbance payments, subject to qualification criteria, where the move is in accordance with the phasing strategy that facilitates this regeneration initiative. Total to be acquired at Outset Acquired to date With Legal Services to conclude Valued and neg cont. Auchentorlie 1 0 1 (Potential CPO) 0 Howard Street 11 11 0 0 Thrushcraigs 6 3 3 (Potential CPO) 0 Broomlands 16 13 3 Waverley 4 3 1 (Potential CPO) 0 Springbank 36 29 5 2 Howwood Road 15 13 1 1 89 72 14 3 Page 34 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.5 As part of the Council's approved five-year capital programme, provision of £103.587m has been approved over the period 2026/27 to 2030/31 to support delivery of the Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme. This includes anticipated Scottish Government funding of £31.100m, resulting in a net expenditure requirement of £72.487m to be financed through HRA capital resources and associated borrowing arrangements. When combined with net expenditure incurred in previous years and planned future programme commitments, the Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme continues to remain within the original strategic planning assumption of £100m net HRA investment capacity established at the inception of the programme. 4.6 The approved five-year investment profile is set out below and reflects the current phasing of regeneration, renewal, demolition, property acquisition and new build activity across the programme. The financial position will continue to be monitored through the annual refresh of the HRA Business Plan and Capital Investment Plan to ensure ongoing affordability and alignment with programme delivery assumptions. Table 2 - Approved capital investment profile Financial Year 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 Total Planned Expenditure 18,245 20,546 21,184 21,113 22,499 103,587 Government Funding -2,919 -3,488 -3,657 -9,621 -11,415 -31,100 Net Expenditure 15,326 17,058 17,527 11,492 11,084 72,487 4.7 Owner Engagement and Participation Engagement with private owners continues to be a key factor in the successful delivery of investment and retention proposals across the Housing- led Regeneration and Renewal Programme. Whilst there has been positive engagement from many owners across the seven regeneration areas where investment is being progressed, achieving sufficient levels of participation within mixed tenure blocks remains challenging in some locations, particularly in areas with a high proportion of private ownership. Where consultation exercises have now been completed and investment works are progressing, including areas such as Howwood Road and parts of Auchentorlie, additional measures approved by the Council, including enhanced Private Sector Housing Grant assistance, strategic use of the Acquisition of Private Housing Policy within Housing Regeneration Areas, and targeted owner engagement activity, have assisted in increasing owner participation and enabling a greater number of blocks to proceed with improvement works. Notwithstanding this progress, owner engagement continues to present a significant delivery challenge across the programme, and the ability to undertake enhanced improvements within mixed tenure blocks remains dependent on securing the necessary levels of owner agreement and participation. Officers will continue to work closely with owners to maximise opportunities for investment and to ensure that owners remain fully informed of the implications of participation and non-participation as the programme progresses. Page 35 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.8 A total of 18 properties have been acquired within regeneration retention areas to date across the following areas; Howwood Road (5), Howard Street (7), Auchentorlie (3), Springbank (1), Broomlands (1), Moorpark (1). Further negotiations are ongoing where acquisition would complete the Council’s ownership in a block or complement participating owners to progress investment works. 4.8.1 Auchentorlie, Paisley Rehousing of tenants and demolition of 5, 7 and 9 Auchentorlie Quadrant is complete and a separate commission for landscaping design is underway. This commission not only covers the land cleared by the demolition of these blocks, it also includes the surrounding common areas, boundary treatments, bin storage and recycling requirements along with the design of open areas/amenity spaces. The initial draft landscaping design for the Auchentorlie area has been discussed with tenants and residents at local pop- up events where the proposed changes were met with approval. Investment & Retention Properties The Auchentorlie investment area includes 3 blocks in full Council ownership and 7 mixed tenure blocks where the investment proposals were subject to owner consultation and agreement to participate. The Housing Investment team consulted with owners in this area, having discussed the costs for fabric improvements and associated grants that are currently available to owners to encourage increased owner participation. Successful acquisition of two properties and agreement to proceed with remaining owners in 2 blocks has allowed these blocks to proceed to receive enhanced investment, bringing the total to five of ten blocks receiving enhanced improvements within this regeneration area. The regeneration and investment teams remain open to further discussion with owners of the remaining mixed tenure blocks, should there be a change of opinion in participating in works or ownership changes in the five blocks not currently proceeding with fabric improvement works, as in some instances a only one owner hasn’t agreed to participate, which has prevented other owners who do wish to participate from proceeding with these improvements. The window installation programme for Council properties in this area continues to progress well with 36 of the 47 Council properties in this area now benefitting from new triple glazed windows. Page 36 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.8.2 Howard Street Area, Paisley Investment & Retention Properties There are 18 flatted blocks within the investment programme for the Howard Street regeneration area. Following successful acquisition of a number of properties, fully Council owned blocks in this area has increased from 6 to 9, which will see an increased number of tenants benefit from this enhanced improvement programme. This leaves 9 mixed tenure blocks (33 Council tenants and 21 private owners) where further engagement is being programmed to highlight the benefits achievable from owner participation, including the current opportunity to receive enhanced grant assistance from Private Sector Housing Grant as previously approved by this Policy Board. The regeneration and investment teams remain open to further discussion with owners in this area, should there be a change of view for participating in the works programme or an ownership change that would allow the Council to proceed with fabric improvement works. The window installation programme for Council properties in this area has commenced and at the time of writing, 61 tenants have received their new windows and 22 are yet to confirm appointments. A separate commission for landscaping design has been carried out in this area, taking account of boundary treatments, bin storage and recycling requirements along with the design of open areas/amenity spaces. This information was shown to tenants and residents at a pop-up event held within the Howard Street locality. Feedback from the event is being incorporated into further consultation material for future events and discussion. Demolition Properties Tenant rehousing from all 66 properties identified for demolition in this area is now complete. Similarly, significant progress has been made with acquisition of private properties for demolition, with all 11 previously privately owned properties now voluntarily acquired by the Council. Following a successful tendering exercise, a demolition contractor started on site on 8th July 2026 to commence the demolition of 8 of the 11 blocks of flats at this location. With the recent acquisition of the last private property in the remaining 3 blocks, officers are now progressing the associated utility disconnections and demolition surveys to advance of an appointment for the final phase of demolition for this area. Page 37 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.8.3 Waverley Road, Paisley Investment & Retention Properties The Waverley Road investment area is now fully Council owned following the successful buy back of the only private property within the 6 in a block flats at this location. The external works contractor will shortly commence investment works to these blocks including balcony replacements. The window installation programme for Council properties has progressed well with 43 of the 48 Council tenants within the regeneration boundary having received their new triple glazed windows to date. Landscaping proposals are being developed following the receipt of feedback from tenants and residents as part of the neighbourhood renewal process. These proposals look to enhance the environment surrounding the blocks and will introduce better recreation and drying spaces and improved waste disposal solutions. Demolition Properties Demolition of the 12 blocks at this location is now complete, however, the last 2 blocks were removed following the serving of a demolition order, therefore the Council are not currently the full owners at this location. A CPO may be necessary if voluntary acquisition of the last remaining private ownership interest is not forthcoming in a timeous manner. Tenants, residents and local elected members were invited to an open day event earlier this year where plans of the demolition area were shown and suggestions for the future use of the cleared sites were invited. Various ideas were submitted including the possibility of future redevelopment of the land for housing. Officers will now consider the feasibility of the suggestions, noting that implementation of any future use cannot be actioned until the site is in full Council ownership. 4.8.4 Ferguslie/Broomlands, Paisley Newbuild Housing The development of the first newbuild housing within this regeneration area will be on the site at Carbrook Street. A contract award was approved for JR Group to deliver 20 newbuild homes, subject to the award of sufficient grant funding from the Scottish Government. The Council has applied for additional grant funding, based on the construction cost and the rental income. The Scottish Government is carrying out an appraisal and it is anticipated the grant awarded will be above the minimum benchmark grant. Page 38 of 366
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PUBLIC The total cost of this project will be partly met by grant funding from the Scottish Government (as provided for in Renfrewshire’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026/27 – 2030/31 and draft Local Housing Strategy Plan 2023 - 2028) and partly from the Council’s Housing Revenue Account Capital Investment Plan. The contract for this development will only be awarded if the grant is sufficient in line with the requirements of the HRA business plan. Demolition Properties The Ferguslie/Broomlands area includes the demolition of 5 blocks of flats. 13 of the 16 privately owned properties required to facilitate demolition have already been acquired by the Council and the remaining 3 owners have now also agreed the voluntary acquisition of their properties. Demolition of these blocks will be progressed on a phased basis following completion of the first phase of newbuild homes to be constructed on the Carbrook Street site. Investment & Retention Properties As previously advised, the Ferguslie/Broomlands investment area includes a very high proportion of privately owned properties. The ownership profile in this area has proven difficult in trying to engage with as many owners as possible to understand the general feeling of owners within mixed tenure blocks to quantify what blocks may be progressed for enhanced improvements at this time. Owners within the Ferguslie/Broomlands regeneration area were invited to an owner event earlier this year to discuss the investment proposals for the area and to provide feedback if they were interested in participating in a joint works programme or not. Given the low level of attendance at the event held locally, officers are continuing phone and in person visits to collate further responses and are keen to programme works where all owners are in agreement to invest in their block. The architectural design team are reviewing the external fabric of the sandstone blocks on Ferguslie Walk in this regeneration area, to consider the specification required to improve the energy efficiency of these blocks. 16 triple glazed window installations have been completed within this regeneration area to date with a further 61 to be progressed. Page 39 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.8.5 Howwood Road Area, Johnstone Investment & Retention Properties Following a successful owner consultation and engagement process, 16 owners across 8 mixed tenure blocks have agreed to participate in the improvement scheme for this area bringing the total number of blocks to receive these enhancements to 24 x 4 in a block cottage flats, all 16 Council owned bungalows and 2 terraced houses. Investment works are scheduled to commence in this area over the summer. Howwood Road Drop-in surgery and Facebook page The Howwood Road Area drop-in continues to be operated from a property within the heart of the Howwood Road area on a Tuesday afternoon and Thursday morning each week. The office is frequently attended by tenants and residents and is often used to hold information sessions by the Council’s newbuild contractor and Active Communities as they carry out their community needs assessment within this area. The closed Facebook group is actively utilised by residents with the site growing in numbers year on year, to represent over 195 households across the area at this time. Newbuild Housing Construction of the newbuild homes remain on programme with the majority of timber kits and facing brick finish now completed, giving an indication of how the site will look on completion. It has been determined that an upgrade to the electricity supply is necessary to facilitate the Council housing development. Discussions have taken place with the utility provider, and a location for the new substation has been agreed in principle. A separate report is being presented to this Policy Board requesting approval of surplus land to facilitate this substation. The first set of newbuild homes are programmed for handover towards the end of the this year / early 2027. The housing allocation process for phase 1 applicants is now underway and at the same time the application process for households within the second demolition phase has started in order to understand their housing needs. This will help to identify those who choose to remain within the Howwood Road area as part of the regeneration programme and those who may want to be considered for rehousing outwith the regeneration area. Page 40 of 366
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PUBLIC Commercial Premises The approved Regeneration and Renewal proposal for the Howwood Area includes the demolition of the existing four commercial units at 41-47 Highcraig Avenue, Johnstone. At the outset of the project, 2 of the 4 were Council owned and the other 2 were privately owned. The condition and appearance of the retail units on Highcraig Avenue continue to be a cause of blight to the area. Further engagement attempts with the owners of the two privately owned shop units continue with a view to the Council voluntarily acquiring these units for demolition. However, in the event that voluntary agreement is not forthcoming, authority is now being sought for the promotion of a compulsory purchase order in relation to the remaining two privately owned commercial properties outlined in Table 1. Despite repeated efforts to engage with the remaining private owners, voluntary agreement has not yet been forthcoming. Accordingly, authority for CPO is sought to ensure that demolition plans can proceed in accordance with the approved programme. Table 1 Address 44 Highcraig Avenue, Johnstone, PA5 0LZ 46 Highcraig Avenue, Johnstone, PA5 0LZ 4.8.6 Springbank/Mossvale, Paisley Demolition Properties The acquisition of properties approved for demolition in the Springbank/Mossvale area is progressing well with 29 of 36 properties now within Council ownership across the nine demolition blocks. Three of the five blocks within the first phase of development have been demolished and the remaining two blocks in this phase are currently receiving pre demolition service disconnections and surveys in advance of demolition in the coming months. The temporary rehousing programme for this area is complete for phase 1 blocks and is now focussed on the application process for phase 2 applicants. Newbuild Housing A feasibility study including site investigation has been completed ahead of final demolition of the two remaining blocks. An indicative draft proposal for a 52 unit development has been designed. On completion of demolition of the two remaining blocks a tender will be issued for a design team or design and build contractor to prepare a drawing package, achieve all statutory approvals and take forward Phase 1 of the newbuild for the Springbank/Mossvale area. Page 41 of 366
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PUBLIC Investment & Retention Properties The Springbank/Mossvale investment area includes 32 Council properties and 65 privately owned properties across 6 mixed tenure blocks. 18 tenants have already received their new windows and the remaining 14 are being programmed. Owners within mixed tenure properties in the Springbank retention area were invited to an owner event earlier this year to discuss the proposed investment programme and to provide feedback if they were interested in participating in a joint works programme to enhance these blocks or not. Given the relatively low level of attendance at the event held locally, officers are continuing phone and in person visits to collate further responses and hope to programme works where all owners are in agreement to invest in their block. Further events are being planned to discuss the wider environment with tenants and residents and to understand what they would like to see included as part of the laundrette upgrades to be brought forward along with discussing possible environmental improvements for the common areas surrounding their homes. Drop in Surgery Officers continue to provide a weekly drop-in session within the Mossy Café. These drop ins are not as well attended as the others; however, officers continue to be available for tenants and residents regularly within this area to answer any questions or queries they may have regarding the regeneration programme for the area. 4.8.7 Thrushcraigs, Paisley Demolition Properties The Thrushcraigs area includes the demolition of all 16 blocks of flats within the regeneration boundary. 3 of the 6 privately owned properties required to facilitate demolition have been acquired by the Council and discussions are ongoing with the remaining owners with a view to voluntarily acquiring these properties prior to demolition. However, where voluntary acquisition is not possible, the Council will utilise the Compulsory Purchase Order powers authorised by this Board earlier this year. Page 42 of 366
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PUBLIC Five wholly Council owned and vacant tenement blocks have now been demolished in the Thrushcraigs area. Tenants and residents of the remaining blocks continue to receive rehousing priority in line with the rehousing strategy agreed for this regeneration area. The remaining blocks will be taken forward for demolition as they become fully Council owned and vacant. As previously reported to the Policy Board, three blocks of flats in this area continue to be used as temporary accommodation for homeless applicants, and due to unprecedented demand for this type and size of accommodation they continue to be fully occupied at this time. These blocks are therefore within the last phase of the demolition programme. Newbuild Housing A feasibility study including site investigations have been completed ahead of the next phase of demolition of the next two blocks in this area. An indicative draft proposal for a 33-unit development has been designed. On completion of demolition of the remaining blocks a tender will be issued for a design team or design and build contractor to prepare a drawing package, achieve all statutory approvals and take forward the newbuild development. 4.8.8 Moorpark, Renfrew Investment & Retention Properties The Moorpark area has a high proportion of private owners with 143 private flats across 75 blocks. 176 properties are Council owned within this area which includes full ownership in only 8 of the 75 blocks. The Council have no ownership interest in 16 blocks. 113 triple glazed window installations have been completed to date within the Moorpark area. As the regeneration team considers the environmental plans for the wider Moorpark area including enhancements to the areas surrounding each block and any open space or path networks around the area to assist resident discussion and engagement at future Neighbourhood Renewal events, the investment team are reviewing the works that may be required to further improve the energy efficiency and appearance of the Council owned and mixed tenure blocks where owner participation is agreed. ______________________________________________________________ Page 43 of 366
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – The financial background to this investment programme was detailed in the report to Council on 17 December 2020, which confirmed that the programme would be funded through sustainable borrowing within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). A strategic review of the 30-year HRA Business Plan identified sufficient headroom to support the programme, including £100 million of additional investment capacity to support long-term planning and investment priorities. The Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme continues to be funded through the HRA Capital Investment Plan and associated borrowing arrangements approved by the Council. The programme's affordability is reviewed annually through the ongoing refresh of the 30-year HRA Business Plan, with the latest review undertaken as part of the 2026/27 rent-setting process confirming that the programme remains affordable and deliverable within approved borrowing and funding assumptions. External grant funding opportunities continue to be maximised to support delivery of regeneration objectives and minimise the impact on HRA resources. Any emerging cost pressures associated with construction, property acquisition or programme delivery continue to be monitored and managed through established capital planning and HRA business planning arrangements. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning • Our Renfrewshire is well – this investment programme is contributing to improved wellbeing and quality of life for residents. • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – this investment programme will deliver a diverse range of economic and community benefit packages over the lifetime of the project. • Our Renfrewshire is safe – ensuring our neighbourhoods are safe and attractive places to live. 4. Legal – work continues with respect to acquisitions, disposals, conveyancing, and title changes as necessary. Specific conveyancing and legal advice associated with the potential CPO for commercial properties in the Howwood Road HRA including advice and representation at any hearings/inquiries should either CPO be opposed. 5. Property/Assets – as we progress through the phases of the investment programme, there is an element of property acquisitions and disposals and demolition of some existing properties as approved by the Board. 6. Information Technology – N/A Page 44 of 366
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PUBLIC 7. Equality & Human Rights – (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – N/A 9. Procurement – a Procurement Strategy has been developed to ensure the delivery of the investment, demolition and newbuild programmes include locally deliverable community benefits from each contract. 10. Risk – a risk register has been developed to consider various risks including those relating to financial and procurement as referred to in the implications section of this report. This risk register is monitored and regularly updated throughout the delivery of the Housing led Regeneration and Renewal programme. 11. Privacy Impact – N/A 12. COSLA Policy Position – N/A 13. Climate Risk – the investment programme will contribute towards meeting the Council’s targets on climate change. 14. Children’s Rights – N/A _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers Report to the Communities and Housing Policy Board, 19 August 2025, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire – Year 4 Update’. Report to the Communities and Housing Policy Board, 20 August 2024, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire – Year 3 Update’. Report to the Communities and Housing Policy Board, 22 August 2023, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire – Year 2 Update’. Report to the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, 16 August 2022, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire – Year 1 Update’. Report to the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, 15 March 2022, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire’. Report to the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, 18 January 2022, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire’. Page 45 of 366
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PUBLIC Report to the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, 18 May 2021, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire’. Report to Council, 17 December 2020, ‘Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire’ _________________________________________________________ Author: Jennifer Murdoch, Housing Regeneration Manager Email: jennifer.murdoch@renfrewshire.gov.uk, 07811 053038 Page 46 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 __________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) requires local authority landlords and RSLs to carry out a Tenant Satisfaction Survey at least once every three years. The SHR sets out standard questions which must be asked of tenants to gauge satisfaction. To meet this requirement, we carry out a Tenant Satisfaction Survey every two years. 1.2 The survey for 2026 was carried out by independent market research specialists Research Resource between late May and 22 June 2026. The purpose of this report is to advise the Policy Board of the outcomes from the 2026 Tenant Satisfaction Survey and to highlight key areas of service strength and where improvements may be required, as identified by tenants. The report is attached at Appendix 1. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Note the contents of this report and any actions arising from it. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The aim of the survey was to find out tenants’ views on the services that Renfrewshire Council provides as a landlord, and how well these services are carried out. Additionally, the survey asks tenants to identify areas where the service can be improved. In particular, the survey focused on the following: Item 5 Page 47 of 366
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PUBLIC • The quality of information provided by the Council; • Feedback on customer care; • Quality of accommodation and the neighbourhood; • Service provision including repairs, maintenance and improvements; • Tenant involvement/opportunities for participation; • Value for money of rents; and • Service priorities. 3.2 The survey was conducted by an independent market research firm ‘Research Resource’ who undertook face-to-face interviews covering 1,200 households, representing nearly 12%of the Council’s tenanted stock. 3.3 The survey questionnaire was based on six key questions developed by the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) to assist in evaluating performance against core Charter indicators and outcomes. The answers are categorised into five possible responses: • Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied, Dissatisfied and Very Dissatisfied. 3.4 In addition to the six Charter questions, the survey has a total of 35 questions covering all aspects of service delivery that assists in service planning and future priorities. The full survey is appended at Appendix 1 of this report. It provides independent information on our tenants’ views in relation to: • Their own homes, neighbourhoods and general environment. • Services provided, and how these could be improved. • Value for money; and • How we communicate with them and how they prefer to receive information. 4. Survey findings and actions 4.1 The 2026 survey demonstrates improvement across all core ARC indicators, with results now showing significant improvement from the previous surveys and exceeding Scottish Local Authority averages. All six Scottish Social Housing Charter indicators recorded improvements and now exceed the Scottish Local Authority average Headline results include: • Overall satisfaction: 91% (up from 72% in 2024) • Quality of housing: 88% (up from 72% in 2024) • Repairs satisfaction: 86% (up from 73% in 2024) • Neighbourhood management: 91% (up from 75% in 2024) • Value for money: 95% (up from 70% in 2024) Across all measures, the service is now consistently performing above ARC comparator benchmarks and Scottish Local Authority averages. Page 48 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.2 Overall satisfaction 91% of tenants surveyed were very or fairly satisfied with the overall service provided by Renfrewshire Council as a landlord. This represents improvement from previous surveys and better than the Scottish average for local authorities. This level of satisfaction demonstrates stronger tenant confidence in our housing landlord services. Taking everything into account, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the overall service provided by Renfrewshire Council as your landlord? 2026 2024 2022 Local Authority average 24/25 91 % 72 % 82 % 80 % 4.3 Communication and participation When asked how well the Service keeps tenants informed, 93% were very or fairly satisfied. This is an 18 point percentage increase from the previous survey and is considerably better that the local authority average. Both indicators exceed ARC benchmarks and demonstrate effective multi- channel communication and improved tenant engagement and involvement opportunities. How good or poor do you feel your landlord (Renfrewshire Council) is at keeping you informed about their housing services and decisions? 2026 2024 2022 Local Authority average 24/25 93% 75% 91% 82% Satisfaction with opportunities to participate also saw an increase from 2024 by 10 percentage points to 94%. Also, much higher than the local authority average. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the opportunities given to you to participate in your landlord’s (Renfrewshire Council’s) decision making processes? 2026 2024 2022 Local Authority average 24/25 94% 84% 99% 80% Further analysis of the opportunities to participate highlight that tenants continue to prefer traditional communication methods, with letters (86%) and telephone calls (29%) the most popular options, consistent with the 2022 and 2024 surveys. Preference for letters increases with age, while younger tenants are more likely to favour digital communication such as email and SMS, with this preference declining significantly among older age groups. Page 49 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.4 Quality of Housing The majority of tenants (88%) were very or fairly satisfied with the quality of their home, demonstrating a sizeable increase from the previous survey (72%). This level of satisfaction is also higher than the Scottish local authority average. Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the quality of your home? 2026 2024 2022 Local Authority average 24/25 88% 72% 85% 79% 4.5 Repairs The survey asks wide ranging questions on the repairs service. All respondents were asked generally how satisfied they are with the way Renfrewshire Council as their landlord deals with repairs and maintenance. Most respondents (86%) were very or fairly satisfied in this respect compared to 73% in 2024. Repairs remain the primary reason tenants contact the Council, accounting for 76% of all recent housing-related enquiries. Feedback from satisfied tenants focused on: • Quality of workmanship. • Speed of attendance. • Repairs being completed at the first visit. Where dissatisfaction was reported, it primarily related to: • Repair completion times. • Outstanding repairs. • Quality of workmanship in some cases. 4.6 Contact with the Housing Service Communication preferences vary significantly by age. Older tenants are more likely to prefer traditional written communication by letter, with 92% of those aged 65 and over selecting this option compared to 70% of tenants aged 16- 34. Conversely, younger tenants are more likely to favour digital channels such as email and SMS, with 60% of those aged 16-34 preferring these methods. 90% of respondents say that they use the internet. more than half of tenants (61%) stated they access the internet via home Wi-Fi, while 77% connect to the internet via a mobile phone. Page 50 of 366
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PUBLIC Given that many of our tenants are well connected digitally, we will be able to explore modern methods of communications to provide modern channels of consultation and information. In addition, the findings of the survey will enable greater interaction in digital communications when the new housing management system becomes operational 4.7 Neighbourhood management Nine out of ten respondents were very satisfied or satisfied with our contribution to the management of the neighbourhood that they live in (91%). This reflects the considerable increase in service delivery in estate and neighbourhood management through the expansion of the Neighbourhood Environmental Trainee Team. Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with your landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood you live in? 2026 2024 2022 Local Authority average 24/25 91% 75% 87% 80% The survey highlights generally positive views of neighbourhoods, with 44% of tenants reporting no significant problems or issues within their area. When asked about the best aspects of their neighbourhood, tenants most frequently identified: • Good neighbours and community spirit (33%) • Quiet and peaceful surroundings (25%) • Good location and accessibility (9%) Where issues were identified, the most common concerns related to: • Communal services including close cleaning and grass cutting (8%) • Anti-social behaviour (6%) • Drug and alcohol related issues (4%) These findings support the continued focus on environmental management and estate-based service delivery, including the establishment of the Housing Estate Manager post. 4.8 Rents and benefits Almost 95% of respondents considered their rent represents very good or fairly good value for money. Taking into account the accommodation and services your landlord provides, to what extent do you think your rent represents value for money? 2026 2024 2022 Local Authority average 24/25 95% 70% 83% 80% Page 51 of 366
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PUBLIC The 95% satisfaction score for rent value for money represents the largest improvement across all Charter indicators, increasing by 23 percentage points since 2024. This result suggests that tenants recognise improvements to housing services and investment activity despite ongoing pressures associated with the cost of living and annual rent increases. This survey asked tenants their views on differential rents, for new build properties and properties that have had improvements to make the property more energy efficient. This is the first time we have asked tenants a question on this subject, most tenants were not supportive of differential rent charging, with 34% unsure about increasing rent for new-build, improved or energy-efficient homes and 41% not supportive of higher rents. We will look to explore this in more detail in future tenant engagement to arrive at an informed decision. 4.9 Service Improvements and Tenants Priorities All respondents were asked an open question regarding what they thought the best thing about the Housing Services that Renfrewshire Council provides. The most popular response was that the Council provided good services or that tenants were happy overall, customer service and staff being helpful or friendly had a high response rate as did general satisfaction with the repairs service. Tenants were also asked to provide an open response to the parts of the housing service of Renfrewshire Council that could be improved upon. The most common answer to this was that nothing needed changed, however where there were specific observations, they identified communal services, such as grass cutting or cleaning, upgrading and improving homes with a small number of respondents suggesting improvements to repairs. 5. Next steps and customer engagement 5.1 Whilst the survey clearly demonstrates overall tenant satisfaction is high, some of the detailed narrative from respondents highlights some areas for improvement. We will continue to work for improvements in all aspects of service delivery including repairs performance, communal areas management (such as grass cutting), tenant participation and continued investment in properties. The service has been working on these areas, last year saw increased investment in the NETTS Team and a Housing Services Estates manager, a new Tenant Participation Strategy is being worked on in collaboration with the Tenants Scrutiny Panel and regeneration and investment in our stock will continue. Progress against these areas will be monitored through existing performance reporting arrangements and future tenant feedback exercises. ___________________________________________________________________ Page 52 of 366
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None 2. HR & Organisational Development – None 3. Community/Council Planning • Building strong, safe, and resilient communities – Improving and maintaining neighbourhoods and homes. • Working together to improve outcomes – Increasing resident satisfaction with neighbourhoods and communities. 4. Legal – None 5. Property/Assets – None 6. Information Technology – None 7. Equality & Human Rights – The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None 9. Procurement – None 10. Risks – None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Risk – None 13. Children’s Rights – None 14. COSLA Policy Position – N/A ___________________________________________________________________ Page 53 of 366
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PUBLIC Background Papers The foregoing background papers will be retained within Housing Services for inspection by the public for the prescribed period of four years from the date of the meeting. • Report to the Communities and Housing Policy Board on 13 May 2025, ‘Scottish Social Housing Charter: Annual Return 2024/25.’ ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Paul McLean, Housing Lead Officer (Performance, Policy & Participation) E Mail: paul.mclean@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 54 of 366
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Cert No. 0501 036 PUBLIC Prepared by: Prepared for: Research Resource Renfrewshire Council Contact: Lorna Shaw Contact: Paul McLean Tel: 0141 641 6410 E-mail: Lorna.shaw@researchresource.co.uk Tel: 0141 618 6264 E-mail: paul.mclean@renfrewshire.gov.uk Renfrewshire Council Tenant Satisfaction Survey July 2026 Page 55 of 366
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2 PUBLIC Report written by: Rosemary Stafford Date: 02/07/2026 Reviewed by: Elaine MacKinnon/ Lorna Shaw Date: 02/07/2026 Page 56 of 366
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3 PUBLIC Renfrewshire Council Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 Contents DIRECTOR’S OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................ 5 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................... 5 2. INTRODUCTION, BACKGROUND AND METHODOLOGY ............................................................. 9 2.1. Introduction and background ............................................................................................. 9 2.2. Background and objectives ................................................................................................ 9 2.3. Research method ............................................................................................................... 10 2.4. Questionnaire design .......................................................................................................... 10 2.5. Sample size .......................................................................................................................... 11 2.6. Interviewing and quality control ........................................................................................ 13 2.7. Survey Analysis and Reporting ........................................................................................... 13 2.8. Report Structure .................................................................................................................. 14 3. OVERALL SATISFACTION .............................................................................................................. 15 3.1. Satisfaction with Renfrewshire Council as a landlord (Q1) .............................................. 15 4. MOVING INTO YOUR HOME ....................................................................................................... 18 4.1. Length of tenancy (Q2) ...................................................................................................... 18 4.2. Satisfaction with condition of new home (Q3) ................................................................. 19 4.3. Satisfaction with current type of house (Q4) .................................................................... 20 4.4. Number of rooms (Q5/6) .................................................................................................... 21 5. COMMUNICATION AND PARTICIPATION ................................................................................... 22 5.1. Keeping tenants informed (Q7) ......................................................................................... 22 5.2. Tenant Participation Opportunities (Q8) ........................................................................... 24 5.3. Satisfaction with opportunities for participation (Q11/12) ............................................... 25 6. CONTACT WITH HOUSING SERVICES .......................................................................................... 28 6.1. Contacting Housing Services (Q13/14) ............................................................................. 28 6.2. Internet use (Q15/16) .......................................................................................................... 29 6.3. Contacting the Council about a housing matter (Q17-20) ............................................ 31 7. THE REPAIRS SERVICE ................................................................................................................... 33 7.1. General satisfaction with repairs and maintenance (Q21/22) ....................................... 33 8. THE HOME .................................................................................................................................... 35 Page 57 of 366
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4 PUBLIC 8.1. Overall satisfaction with quality of the home (Q23/24) ................................................... 35 8.2. Multi-storey blocks (Q25) .................................................................................................... 38 9. NEIGHBOURHOOD MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................ 39 9.1. Landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood (Q26) ................. 39 9.2. Change in the neighbourhood over the past year (Q27) ............................................... 41 9.3. Best thing about the neighbourhood (Q28) ..................................................................... 42 9.4. Greatest problems or issues in the neighbourhood (Q29) ............................................... 43 10. RENT AND BENEFITS .................................................................................................................. 44 10.1. Value for money (Q30/31) ................................................................................................. 44 10.2. Housing benefit and Universal Credit (Q32) ..................................................................... 46 10.3. Charging higher rents for new/ improved homes (Q33) ................................................. 46 11. SERVICE PRIORITIES AND IMPROVEMENTS ............................................................................. 48 11.1. Best aspect of service provided (Q34) .............................................................................. 48 11.2. Service improvement (Q35) ............................................................................................... 49 12. HOUSEHOLD INFORMATION ................................................................................................... 50 12.1. Equalities overview .............................................................................................................. 50 12.2. Tenant or partner (Q36) ...................................................................................................... 50 12.3. Age and gender (Q37/38) ................................................................................................. 51 12.4. Household composition (Q39) ........................................................................................... 51 12.5. Disability status (Q40/41) .................................................................................................... 52 12.6. Ethnicity (Q42) ..................................................................................................................... 52 13. CONCLUSIONS ........................................................................................................................ 53 13.1. Areas of high performance ................................................................................................ 53 13.2. Areas for consideration and focus for improvement ....................................................... 53 13.3. Overall conclusion .............................................................................................................. 54 APPENDIX 1: Survey Questionnaire APPENDIX 2: Technical Report Summary Page 58 of 366
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5 PUBLIC DIRECTOR’S OVERVIEW 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND Research Resource was commissioned by Renfrewshire Council to undertake their 2026 Tenant Satisfaction Survey. The aim of the research was to seek tenants’ views on the services that Renfrewshire Council provides as a landlord, how well it performs these services and to help identify areas where the service can be improved. A total of 1,200 interviews were carried out with tenants using a face to face methodology. 1,200 interviews provide data accurate to +2.66% (based upon a 50% estimate at the 95% confidence interval). Interviews were spread across all areas of Renfrewshire Council’s stock. CHARTER INDICATORS The table over the page shows the results for the Scottish Housing Regulator key indicators for the Scottish Social Housing Charter Annual Return for Renfrewshire Council. The results in the table below show the levels of satisfaction reported in Renfrewshire Council’s 2022, 2024 and 2026 tenant satisfaction surveys. The trend column shows the difference between 2024 and 2026. This column indicates where there has been a statistically significant change between 2024 and 2026, as is shown in the key below. These have also been benchmarked against the Scottish Local Authority average in the Annual Return on the Charter 2024/25 in order to provide some wider context to the results. This analysis shows that satisfaction levels have increased significantly across the board for all indicators for 2026 compared to 2024. Renfrewshire Council is also performing above the LA average for all Scottish averages in 2024/25. Key Significant increase Slight increase No change Slight decrease Significant decrease Page 59 of 366
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6 PUBLIC Scottish Social Housing Charter Indicators [2022/2024/2026 TSS and LA Scottish Average comparison] 2022 2024 2026 Trend 2024 vs 2026 LA Scottish Average 2024/25 1 - Taking everything into account, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the overall service provided by your landlord? (% very/ fairly satisfied) 82% 72% 91% 80% 2 - How good or poor do you feel your landlord is at keeping you informed about their services and decisions? (% very/ fairly good) 91% 75% 93% 82% 5 - How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the opportunities given to you to participate in your landlord’s decision making processes? (% very/fairly satisfied) 99% 84% 94% 80% 7 - Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the quality of your home? (% very/fairly satisfied) 80% 72% 88% 79% 13 - Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with your landlord's contribution to the management of the neighbourhood you live in? (% very/fairly satisfied) 87% 75% 91% 80% 25 - Taking into account the accommodation and the services your landlord provides, do you think the rent for this property represents good or poor value for money? Is it….? (% very/ fairly good) 83% 70% 93% 80% KEY FINDINGS The key findings of Renfrewshire Council’s 2026 Tenant Satisfaction Survey are as follows: Overall satisfaction The majority of respondents (91%) were very or fairly satisfied with the overall service provided by Renfrewshire Council as a landlord. Moving into your home Just under 9 in 10 (87%) of the tenants who had moved into their current home within the last five years were very or fairly satisfied with the condition of their home when they moved in. All respondents were then asked if they were happy with the type of house they currently have. The majority of respondents stated yes (94%). More than 9 in 10 respondents felt they had about the right number of rooms in their home (96%). Page 60 of 366
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7 PUBLIC Communication and participation More than 9 in 10 tenants (93%) felt their landlord was very or fairly good at keeping them informed about their services and decisions. Renfrewshire Council’s Housing service uses a range of different methods to contact and consult with tenants. The methods tenants would prefer Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Service to use to consult with them about issues that may affect them were by letter (86%), via telephone call (29%) or by email or SMS text message (27%). Over 9 in 10 respondents (94%) were very or fairly satisfied with the opportunities given to them to participate in their landlord’s decision-making processes. Contact with housing services The majority of tenants would prefer to use the telephone to get in touch with their landlord (95%). Letters were the preferred method tenants would like their landlord to use when getting in touch with them (70%). More than half of tenants (61%) stated they access the internet via home Wi-Fi (56% in 2024), while 77% connect to the internet via a mobile phone (38% in 2024). Just 1 in 10 tenants said they did not use the internet and less than 1% access the internet at a public building such as a library. Around a third of tenants (32%) have contacted Renfrewshire Council about a housing matter in the last 12 months. Of these respondents, over half (57%) said they contacted the contact centre, 28% had contacted a repairs and maintenance officer and 14% contacted a housing officer. Of tenants who had contact with the Council within the last 12 months, 79% said they found staff to be helpful. Repairs Over one in four tenants (27%) have had repairs carried out in the last 12 months. The majority of respondents (86%) were very or fairly satisfied in this respect, 9% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and 5% were very or fairy dissatisfied. Your home The majority of tenants (88%) were very or fairly satisfied with the quality of their home. Just over 1 in 10 tenants (11%) said they lived in a multi storey property and received a concierge or caretaker service. All respondents were satisfied with the common areas, cleanliness and the condition of the block and that the caretaker is easy to contact. Page 61 of 366
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8 PUBLIC Neighbourhood management Tenants were asked to rate how satisfied or dissatisfied they were with their landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood they live in, 91% of tenants were very or fairly satisfied in this respect. Tenants were most likely to say the best thing about their neighbourhood is that they have good neighbours or it is a good area to live (33%), or that it is quiet and peaceful (25%). Tenants were then asked what they perceive to be the greatest problems or issues in their neighbourhood. Over 4 in 10 tenants (44%) did not believe there were any problems or issues in their neighbourhood. Where tenants did believe an issue to be present, this was most likely in relation to communal services (8%), regarding anti-social behaviour (6%) and where they had experienced drug or alcohol problems (4%). Rent and benefits More than nine in ten respondents (93%) were of the opinion their rent represents very or fairly good value for money. Just under 1 in 4 respondents (22%) stated that they were in receipt of full housing benefit, 1% were in receipt of partial housing benefit, 33% were in receipt of Universal Credit, 6% received partial Universal Credit, 25% said they did not receive any housing benefit and 3% stated they did not know. Tenants were asked if they think the Council should charge higher rents for new build homes, newly improved homes and homes that are more energy efficient. Most tenants were not supportive of differential rent charging, with 34% unsure about increasing rent for new-build, improved or energy-efficient homes and 41% not supportive of higher rents. Just 13% would be happy with this if the Council were to focus on new build homes only and 10% would like to see new build homes, improved and energy efficient homes. Page 62 of 366
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9 PUBLIC 2. INTRODUCTION, BACKGROUND AND METHODOLOGY 2.1. Introduction and background This report represents and discusses the findings to emerge from Renfrewshire Council’s Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026. 2.2. Background and objectives The aim of the research was to seek tenants’ views on the services that Renfrewshire Council provides as a landlord, how well it performs these services and to help identify areas where the service can be improved. Specifically, the research was designed to provide customers views on the following: The quality of information provided by the Council; Feedback on customer care; Quality of accommodation and the neighbourhood; Service provision including repairs, maintenance and improvements; Tenant involvement/ opportunities for participation; Value for money for rent; Service priorities. It is against this background that Research Resource were commissioned to carry out Renfrewshire Council’s 2026 Tenant Satisfaction Survey. Page 63 of 366
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10 PUBLIC 2.3. Research method We note that the guidance on surveying tenants and service users prepared on behalf of the Regulator debates the use of a range of different methodologies for carrying out the survey, including postal, online, telephone and face to face survey methods. However, given the requirement to achieve a robust level of data and ensuring a representative sample of tenants was interviewed, it was decided that the tenant survey was carried out utilising an interviewer led face to face methodology which is a change from the method that has been used for Renfrewshire Council’s previous tenant satisfaction surveys, a telephone survey methodology. An interviewer led methodology provides a high quality and positive response to the research, whilst still allowing control over the representativeness of the survey sample. Our primary reasons for recommending an interviewer led methodology were: Administering the survey utilising an interviewer led methodology allows us to maximise the response rate. The proposed methodology is an inclusive methodology and allows interviewers to ensure that, for example, elderly or those with a disability or literacy problems can be included in the process. It also lets us identify any potential barriers to participation which can be raised and addressed in partnership with the Council. Facilitates high quality of survey output as it allows the interviewer to build up a rapport with the participant ensuring that the questionnaire is answered in full and allowing explanation of the necessity for asking personal data. Given the geographical spread of tenants this method was the most practical and cost- effective option for delivery of the research. It should be noted that previous tenant satisfaction surveys in 2022 and 2024 were undertaken using a telephone methodology. 2.4. Questionnaire design After consultation with Renfrewshire Council’s representatives, a survey questionnaire was agreed which fully met the information needs and requirements of the organisation and included all issues of importance for tenants. In developing the questionnaire, the following issues were considered: The information needs listed in the survey brief; The Scottish Social Housing Charter indicators upon which Renfrewshire Council is required to report; Research Resource experience in relation to customer satisfaction surveying. A copy of the questionnaire can be found in Appendix 1 of this report. Page 64 of 366
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11 PUBLIC 2.5. Sample size The aim of the survey was to achieve a robust level of data upon which the Council can have confidence making decisions upon. Overall, a total of 1,200 interviews were achieved with tenants from an overall population of 10,225 tenants, providing data accurate to +2.66% (based upon the 95% confidence level and a 50% estimate). A representative sample of the Council’s tenants was drawn from which it was sought to achieve the targeted 1,200 interviews. The sample was spread across each area of the Council’s stock to ensure coverage of all house types and sizes. The guidance from the Scottish Housing Regulator states that in all surveys, particularly postal surveys, some groups are more likely than others to respond. This means that certain subgroups will be under-represented, and others will be over-represented in the final achieved sample (i.e. all the people who responded). Weighting ensures that received responses are representative of the whole survey population. The guidance suggests that social landlords will be likely to have suitable information on the population in terms of dwelling type (flats, semi- detached house, detached, terraces) and the number of bedrooms. The following tables show the sample profile broken down by area, office, property type and property size compared to the population. As can be seen below, the interview profile is relatively in line with the overall tenant population profile. We are comfortable however, that the coverage of the tenant population is sufficiently close that weighting of survey data is not required. The data reported is therefore unweighted. House type No. tenants % tenants No. interviews % interviews Deck access Flat 171 1.7% 19 1.6% Deck access Maisonette 196 1.9% 23 1.9% Detached Bungalow 21 0.2% 1 0.1% Detached House 2 0.0% 1 0.1% End terrace Bungalow 120 1.2% 14 1.2% End terrace House 637 6.2% 56 4.7% Mid terrace Bungalow 99 1.0% 8 0.7% Mid terrace House 973 9.5% 97 8.1% Multi-storey Flat 901 8.8% 122 10.2% Own Door Flat 2363 23.1% 262 21.8% Permanent Prefab 15 0.1% 0 0.0% Semi-detached Bungalow 112 1.1% 8 0.7% Semi-detached House 619 6.1% 90 7.5% Tenement Flat 3593 35.1% 449 37.4% Walk Up Flat 325 3.2% 44 3.7% Walk Up Maisonette 78 0.8% 6 0.5% Grand Total 10225 100.0% 1200 100.0% Page 65 of 366
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12 PUBLIC No. bedrooms No. tenants % tenants No. interviews % interviews 0 295 2.9% 18 1.5% 1 2808 27.5% 355 29.6% 2 5008 49.0% 594 49.5% 3 1915 18.7% 216 18.0% 4 196 1.9% 17 1.4% 5 2 0.0% 0 0.0% 7 1 0.0% 0 0.0% Grand Total 10225 100.0% 1200 100.0% Office No. tenants % tenants No. interviews % interviews FERGUSLIE PARK 291 2.8% 32 2.7% FOXBAR 851 8.3% 83 6.9% GALLOWHILL 986 9.6% 121 10.1% GLENBURN 816 8.0% 110 9.2% J'STONE & VILL 2354 23.0% 247 20.6% J'STONE CASTLE 621 6.1% 63 5.3% PAISLEY 2763 27.0% 351 29.3% RENFREW 1543 15.1% 193 16.1% Grand Total 10225 100.0% 1200 100.0% Page 66 of 366
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13 PUBLIC Area No. tenants % tenants No. interviews % interviews BISHOPTON 135 1.3% 20 1.7% BRIDGE OF WEIR 192 1.9% 20 1.7% CARTSIDE 165 1.6% 27 2.3% COCHRANE CASTLE 39 0.4% 7 0.6% CORSEFORD 62 0.6% 12 1.0% DYKEBAR 15 0.1% 3 0.3% ELDERSLIE 300 2.9% 6 0.5% FERGUSLIE PARK 243 2.4% 21 1.8% FOXBAR 859 8.4% 85 7.1% GALLOWHILL 985 9.6% 120 10.0% GLENBURN 808 7.9% 109 9.1% GOCKSTON 44 0.4% 0 0.0% HOUSTON 38 0.4% 0 0.0% HOWWOOD 65 0.6% 0 0.0% HUNTERHILL 376 3.7% 41 3.4% INCHINNAN 50 0.5% 10 0.8% JOHNSTONE 1021 10.0% 99 8.3% JOHNSTONE CASTLE 322 3.1% 57 4.8% KILBARCHAN 156 1.5% 20 1.7% KIRKLANDNEUK 283 2.8% 34 2.8% LINWOOD 413 4.0% 40 3.3% LOCHFIELD 257 2.5% 35 2.9% LOCHWINNOCH 163 1.6% 20 1.7% LOUNSDALE 68 0.7% 18 1.5% MOORPARK 120 1.2% 9 0.8% PAISLEY 1927 18.8% 245 20.4% RALSTON 10 0.1% 0 0.0% RENFREW 840 8.2% 107 8.9% SPATESTON 39 0.4% 2 0.2% WHITEHAUGH 116 1.1% 20 1.7% Grand Total 10225 100.0% 1200 100.0% 2.6. Interviewing and quality control All interviewing was undertaken by Research Resource’s highly trained and experienced interviewers’, all of whom are highly experienced in undertaking tenant satisfaction surveys for Housing Associations and Local Authorities. Interviewing took place between the 26th of May and the 19th of June 2026. 2.7. Survey Analysis and Reporting Survey data has been analysed and reported on in a number of ways. Data has been analysed by area and key variables as agreed by the organisation. Where any particular trends or issues are found for any one key group, this is detailed in the survey report. Page 67 of 366
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14 PUBLIC Where relevant, data has been compared to the Council’s 2022 and 2024 tenant satisfaction survey results with significant changes in satisfaction highlighted in the report. Please note that not all percentages sum to 100% due to rounding. 2.8. Report Structure This document details the key findings to emerge from the survey for Renfrewshire Council. Chapter 3. OVERALL SATISFACTION Chapter 4. MOVING INTO YOUR HOME Chapter 5. COMMUNICATION AND PARTICIPATION Chapter 6. CONTACT WITH HOUSING SERVICES Chapter 7. THE REPAIRS SERVICE Chapter 8. THE HOME Chapter 9. NEIGHBOURHOOD MANAGEMENT Chapter 10. RENT AND BENEFITS Chapter 11. SERVICE PRIORITIES AND IMPROVEMENTS Chapter 12. HOUSEHOLD INFORMATION Chapter 13. CONCLUSIONS APPENDIX 1: QUESTIONNAIRE APPENDIX 2: TECHNICAL REPORT SUMMARY Page 68 of 366
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15 PUBLIC 3. OVERALL SATISFACTION 3.1. Satisfaction with Renfrewshire Council as a landlord (Q1) The survey opened by asking tenants how satisfied they were with the Council as their landlord. The majority of respondents (91%) were very or fairly satisfied in this respect, an increase from the 72% reported in 2024 and 82% in 2022. Renfrewshire Council is performing above the ARC 2024/2025 Local Authority average of 80% with regards to satisfaction with the overall service. Analysis by area reveals Ferguslie Park respondents reported the highest levels of satisfaction (100%) while Gallowhill respondents were least likely to be satisfied (85%). Q1 Taking everything into account, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the overall service provided by Renfrewshire Council as your landlord? [Analysed by office] PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOWHILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Very satisfied 36.8% 15.6% 27.5% 35.5% 30.1% 12.0% 7.4% 63.5% Fairly satisfied 59.0% 84.4% 61.9% 54.5% 57.0% 75.9% 77.7% 27.0% Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 2.3% - 8.5% 1.8% 8.3% 8.4% 9.9% 6.3% Fairly dissatisfied 1.4% - 1.6% 4.5% 3.1% 1.2% - 1.6% Very dissatisfied 0.6% - 0.4% 3.6% 1.6% 2.4% 5.0% 1.6% No opinion - - - - - - - - % Satisfied 96% 100% 89% 90% 87% 88% 85% 90% Page 69 of 366
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16 PUBLIC Respondents who were not satisfied with the overall service provided by Renfrewshire Council as their landlord were then asked to explain why they felt this way. Respondents were most likely to state this was due to poor communal services (23%), due to outstanding repairs (21%), dissatisfaction with the repairs service (20%) and where tenants believed their home required upgrades (17%). Q1a If not satisfied, can you explain why? Base: All who were not satisfied, n=145 No. % Poor communal services e.g. close cleaning/ grass cutting 25 22.5% Repairs outstanding/ not completed 23 20.7% Poor repairs service 22 19.8% Home needs upgrades e.g. kitchen/ bathroom 19 17.1% Problems with ASB/ ASN 12 10.8% Poor customer service 12 10.8% Don't see/ hear much from them 10 9.0% Problems with damp/ mould 7 6.3% Issues with vermin 3 2.7% Issues with bins 2 1.8% Rent too expensive/ keeps increasing 1 0.9% Other 1 0.9% Further analysis reveals that the results to this question vary significantly in terms of: Age: Tenants aged 35-44 (95%) and aged 65 and over (93%) were more likely to be satisfied with the overall service than tenants aged 45-64 (86%). Sex: Males were more likely to have expressed satisfaction (93%) than females (89%). Disability: Those who had a disability were less likely to be satisfied with the overall service (86%) than those who did not have a disability (93%). Ethnicity: White Scottish/ British respondents were less likely to be satisfied (90%) than other ethnicities (97%). Property type: Those who lived in tenement flats were less satisfied (86%) than all other property types (between 90% and 98% satisfaction). Length of stay: Those who lived in their home between 11 and 20 years (87%) were less likely to be satisfied than those who lived in their home between 3 and 10 years (93%). Page 70 of 366
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18 PUBLIC 4. MOVING INTO YOUR HOME 4.1. Length of tenancy (Q2) Respondents were asked to specify how long they had been a tenant of Renfrewshire Council. This revealed 8% had been Council tenants for 2 years or less, 58% for between 3 and 10 years and 34% for more than 11 years. The proportion of tenants who have lived in their home for less than 2 years has seen a decrease from 20% in 2024. Those who lived in Foxbar had the highest proportion of respondents who were new tenants of 2 years or less (16%) while Ferguslie Park and Johnstone Castle had no tenants living in their home for less than 2 years. Johnstone and Villages had the highest proportion of respondents living in their home for 11 or more years (41%). Q2 How long have you/ your household been a Renfrewshire Council tenant? [Analysed by office] PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOWHILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Under 1 year 2.8% - 0.4% 0.9% 1.6% 3.6% 0.8% - 1-2 years 4.8% - 5.3% 4.5% 8.8% 12.0% 7.4% 1.6% 3-5 years 13.4% 6.3% 13.0% 23.6% 19.2% 27.7% 13.2% 9.5% 6-10 years 40.5% 87.5% 40.9% 40.0% 36.8% 21.7% 58.7% 54.0% 11-20 years 25.4% 6.3% 21.5% 22.7% 20.2% 24.1% 13.2% 14.3% 21+ years 12.8% - 19.0% 8.2% 13.5% 10.8% 6.6% 20.6% Don’t know/ can’t remember 0.3% - - - - - - - Page 72 of 366
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19 PUBLIC 4.2. Satisfaction with condition of new home (Q3) Tenants who stated they have moved into their current home within the last five years were then asked how satisfied they were with its condition when they moved in. Just under 9 in 10 respondents (87%) were very or fairly satisfied with the condition of their home when they moved in, 9% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, and just 4% were very or fairly dissatisfied. The proportion of respondents who were either very or fairly satisfied is higher than was reported in 2022 (73%) and in 2024 (72%). Of the 12 tenants who were not satisfied with the condition of their home when they moved in, 6 said their home was in poor condition or run down, 5 said their home needed repairs, 1 tenant said their home needed redecoration and 1 tenant said the kitchen needed upgraded. Page 73 of 366
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20 PUBLIC 4.3. Satisfaction with current type of house (Q4) All respondents were then asked if they were happy with the type of house they currently have. The majority of respondents stated yes (94%) while 5% stated no and 1% said they were unsure. The proportion of respondents who were happy with their type of house has increased from 87% in 2022 and 81% in 2024. As shown in the table below satisfaction with house type ranged from 91% in terms of tenement flats to 98% for multi storey and own door flats. Q4 Are you happy with the type of house you currently have? Base Yes No Don’t know Multi storey flat 122 98% 2% - Own door flat 262 98% 1% 0% Other flat/ maisonette 92 96% 3% 1% Terraced house 153 95% 3% 2% Bungalow/ detached or semidetached house 122 93% 6% 2% Tenement flat 449 91% 8% 0% Those who were not happy with the type of house they currently have were asked to explain why this was. Tenants were most likely to state this was due to the property being too small (25%), where they would like a front and back door (19%) or level access (19%). Q4a Are you happy with the type of house you currently have? If no (why is that?) Base: All who were not satisfied, n=59 No. % Home is too small/ big 15 25.4% Would like a back/ front door 11 18.6% Require ground floor/ level access 11 18.6% Poor quality/ condition of home 9 15.3% Don't like living here/ area 4 6.8% Would like a property with a garden 4 6.8% Don't like living in high rise 3 5.1% Receive poor communal services e.g. close cleaning/ grass cutting 3 5.1% Other 1 1.7% Page 74 of 366
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21 PUBLIC 4.4. Number of rooms (Q5/6) More than 9 in 10 respondents (96%) felt they had about the right number of rooms in their home, while 2% felt they had too few and 1% felt they had too many. The proportion of respondents who said the number of rooms they had was about right has increased from 85% in 2022 and 83% in 2024. Analysis by number of rooms indicates that those living in bedsits were most likely to say they had too few rooms (11%). Where respondents said they had too many bedrooms this was spread across 2 and 3 bedroom properties (either 1% or 2%). Analysis by age reveals that tenants aged 16-24 (8%) were most likely to say they had too few bedrooms, while those aged 65+ (5%) were most likely to say they had too many bedrooms. Tenants who live in 2 parent households (10%) were most likely to say they had too few bedrooms. The proportion of respondents who said they had too many bedrooms does not vary significantly by household composition. Four out of the 17 tenants who felt that they had too many rooms said they would be willing for someone from Housing Service’s to contact them to discuss if they would be willing to move to a smaller property and provided their contact details for follow up. Page 75 of 366
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22 PUBLIC 5. COMMUNICATION AND PARTICIPATION 5.1. Keeping tenants informed (Q7) More than 9 in 10 respondents (93%) felt their landlord was very or fairly good at keeping them informed about their services and decisions, while 6% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and 1% were very or fairly dissatisfied. The proportion of tenants who felt Renfrewshire Council were very or fairly good at keeping them informed has increased since the previous survey, from 75% in 2024 to 93% in 2026. Satisfaction is more in line with the 2022 survey where 91% of tenants expressed satisfaction in this respect. The 2026 results are higher than the ARC 2024/25 LA average of 82%. Analysis by area shows that all tenants who lived in Ferguslie Park (100%) said they feel their landlord is very or fairly good at keeping them informed. Those who lived in Glenburn were least likely to feel this way (86%). These findings are consistent with the 2024 survey. Q7 How good or poor do you feel your landlord (Renfrewshire Council) is at keeping you informed about their housing services and decisions? [Analysed by office] PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOWHILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Very good 25.9% - 37.7% 27.3% 28.0% 2.4% 14.9% 49.2% Fairly good 68.1% 100.0% 58.7% 59.1% 60.6% 85.5% 82.6% 44.4% Neither good nor poor 5.4% - 3.2% 8.2% 9.3% 8.4% 2.5% 6.3% Fairly poor 0.6% - 0.4% 4.5% 2.1% 1.2% - - Very poor - - - 0.9% - 2.4% - - % Good 94% 100% 96% 86% 89% 88% 98% 94% Page 76 of 366
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23 PUBLIC The results to this question vary significantly in terms of: Age: Tenants aged 16-34 were less likely to be satisfied in this respect (88%) than all other age groups (between 93% and 95%). Disability: Households with a disability were less likely to say their landlord was good at keeping them informed (88%) than households with no disability (95%). House type: Those living in terraced houses and tenement flats (90%) were less likely to be satisfied than those who lived in multi stories (98%) and own door flats (96%) Page 77 of 366
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24 PUBLIC 5.2. Tenant Participation Opportunities (Q8) Tenants were most likely to say they would prefer to be consulted by letter (86%) or by telephone call (29%). These were also the two most popular options identified in the 2022 and 2024 surveys. Analysis by age reveals that as age increases the preference for written communications via letter also increases for example 70% of tenants aged 16-34 preferred to be kept informed in this way compared to 92% of tenants aged 65 and over. Digital communications on the other hand such as email or SMS communication is most likely to be preferred by tenants aged 16-34 (60%), and this decreases with aged to just 3% for those aged 65 and over. Q8 Renfrewshire Council’s Housing service uses a range of different methods to contact and consult with tenants. Which methods do you prefer Renfrewshire Council Housing Service to use to consult with you about issues that may affect you? (tick as many that apply) Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % By letter 1037 86.4% Telephone call 346 28.8% By email/ SMS text 322 26.8% Magazine / Newsletter 123 10.3% Online 224 18.7% Personal visit 111 9.3% Organised public meetings 14 1.2% Through Tenants and Residents Associations 5 0.4% Through Tenants Forums 4 0.3% By Focus Group 3 0.3% Other - specify 6 0.5% None - - Page 78 of 366
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25 PUBLIC 5.3. Satisfaction with opportunities for participation (Q11/12) The majority of respondents (94%) were very or fairly satisfied with the opportunities given to them to participate in their landlord’s decision-making processes, compared to 5% who were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and 1% who were very or fairly dissatisfied. The proportion of tenants who were very or fairly satisfied in this respect has increased from 84% in 2024, however it is lower than the 2022 survey where 99% expressed satisfaction. The 2026 result is above the ARC 2024/25 LA average of 80%. Analysis by area shows that satisfaction with participation opportunities ranged from 86% in Glenburn to 100% in Gallowhill and Ferguslie Park. Q11 How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the opportunities given to you to participate in your landlord’s (Renfrewshire Council’s) decision making processes? PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOWHILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Very satisfied 29.1% 9.4% 42.5% 28.2% 27.5% 2.4% 8.3% 66.7% Fairly satisfied 68.4% 90.6% 52.2% 58.2% 60.6% 86.7% 91.7% 25.4% Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 2.3% - 5.3% 9.1% 7.8% 7.2% - 7.9% Fairly dissatisfied 0.3% - - 3.6% 4.1% 1.2% - - Very dissatisfied - - - 0.9% - 2.4% - - % satisfied 97% 100% 95% 86% 88% 89% 100% 92% Page 79 of 366
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26 PUBLIC Tenants who were not satisfied with the opportunities given to them to participate in their landlord’s decision-making processes were then asked for suggestions for improvement. Just over a quarter stated they were not aware they could become involved (27%). Q12 What could Renfrewshire Council do to make you satisfied with the opportunities for getting involved? Base: Not satisfied with participation opportunities, n=74 No. % Not aware of opportunities available 20 27.0% Decisions made without consulting tenants/ need to listen 9 12.2% Not interested/ no time 7 9.5% Not enough opportunities to participate 6 8.1% Need more information on what they do e.g. letters/ online 5 6.8% Don't know what influence we have on decisions 5 6.8% Other 1 1.4% Don't know 22 29.7% Further analysis indicates that the results to this question vary significantly in terms of: Age: Younger tenants were less likely to be satisfied with participation opportunities (88%) than older tenants aged 65 and over (97%). Disability: Households with a disability were less likely to be satisfied with participation opportunities (89%) than households with no disability (95%). Property type: Those who lived in tenement flats were less likely to be satisfied (91%) than those who lived in bungalows or detached/ semi-detached houses (98%). Page 80 of 366
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28 PUBLIC 6. CONTACT WITH HOUSING SERVICES 6.1. Contacting Housing Services (Q13/14) Respondents were asked about the methods they would prefer to use when getting in touch with their landlord and also the methods they would prefer their landlord to use when they need to get in touch with them. Telephone contact was by far and away the most preferred way for tenants to use when they need to get in touch with their landlord (96%), followed by email (26%). Letters were the preferred method tenants would like their landlord to use when getting in touch with them (70%), followed by telephone (52%). Q13 Which of the following methods would you prefer to use when getting in touch with your landlord and which would you prefer your landlord to use when getting in touch with you? Q13 Which of the following methods would you prefer to use when getting in touch with your landlord? Q14 Would you prefer your landlord to use when getting in touch with you? [ALL THAT APPLY] Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % No. % Email 311 25.9% 340 28.3% Phone 1146 95.5% 620 51.7% In person 137 11.4% 154 12.8% Online 71 5.9% 114 9.5% Letter 138 11.5% 838 69.8% Other 2 0.2% 1 0.1% Dedicated Housing App 33 2.8% Text message 285 23.8% Analysis by age shows that digital communications such as email contact and online contact were most likely to be preferred by younger tenants, and that the preference level decreases with age. Page 82 of 366
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29 PUBLIC 6.2. Internet use (Q15/16) More than half of tenants (61%) stated they access the internet via home Wi-Fi (56% in 2024), while 77% connect to the internet via a mobile phone (38% in 2024). Internet access is 91% or greater for tenants aged under 55 and only drops off significantly beyond the age of 75 where internet access is just 43%. Just 1 in 10 tenants said they did not use the internet and less than 1% access the internet at a public building such as a library. Analysis by age of respondent shows that as age increases, the proportion of tenants who do not use the internet generally increases with those aged 75 and over being most likely to say they do not use the internet (57%). Page 83 of 366
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30 PUBLIC Following on from this, respondents were asked if they would be interested in an optional home Wi-Fi service provided by the Council available for an additional charge. Just 4% were interested in this. 25% said they were interested but was cost dependent, 56% were uninterested and 15% were unsure. Analysis by office is shown in the table below. As can be seen below, tenants who lived in Glenburn (46%), Renfrew (43%), and Johnstone Castle (44%) were most likely to say they would be interested or potentially interested depending on cost. On the other hand no Ferguslie Park tenants answered in this way. Q16b Would you be interested in an optional home Wi-Fi service provided by the Council available for an additional charge? PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOW- HILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Yes 3% - 1% 9% 7% 7% - 6% Potentially, but would depend upon the cost 24% - 22% 37% 35% 20% 7% 38% No 58% 97% 66% 37% 44% 37% 91% 21% Don't know 15% 3% 11% 16% 14% 35% 2% 35% Page 84 of 366
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31 PUBLIC Those who do not currently use the internet were significantly more likely to say they would not be interested in this service (84%) than those who do access the internet (53%). Analysis by age revealed that as age increases, the proportion of tenants who answered yes, or potentially yes both decreased with age. Q16b Would you be interested in an optional home Wi-Fi service provided by the Council available for an additional charge? Access the internet Do not use internet Base 1076 124 Yes 4.6% - Potentially, but would depend upon the cost 27.2% 3.2% No 53.0% 83.9% Don't know 15.2% 12.9% 6.3. Contacting the Council about a housing matter (Q17-20) Around a third of tenants (32%) have contacted Renfrewshire Council about a housing matter in the last 12 months (61% in 2024). Of these respondents, over half (57%) said they contacted the contact centre, 28% had contacted a repairs and maintenance officer and 14% contacted a housing officer. Q18 Who did you contact? Base: All who had been in contact, n=386 No. % Contact Centre 221 57.3% Repairs and maintenance officer 107 27.7% Housing Officer 52 13.5% Other 6 1.6% Tenants were most likely to have contacted the Council about repairs (76%, 73% in 2024). This was followed by moving house (6%) and about garden or close maintenance (4%). In 2024 the top three reasons for making contact were about repairs (73%), moving house (9%) and regarding a neighbour or anti-social behaviour problem (5%). Q19 What did you last contact the Council about? Base: All who had been in contact, n=386 No. % Repairs 292 75.6% Moving House (Housing Options) 22 5.7% Garden/close maintenance 17 4.4% Housing improvements & Investment 14 3.6% Adaptations 9 2.3% Universal Credit/Housing benefit 9 2.3% Rent enquiry 8 2.1% Neighbour problem or Anti-Social Behaviour 6 1.6% Homelessness 1 0.3% Other 8 2.1% Page 85 of 366
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32 PUBLIC Seventy nine percent of tenants (80% in 2024) who had contact with the Council within the last 12 months found staff to be helpful, while 11% said staff were unhelpful (11% in 2024) and 11% said staff were neither helpful nor unhelpful (9% in 2024). Analysis by reason for contact reveals that all tenants who had contacted the Council about adaptations, Universal Credit or Housing Benefit and homelessness found staff to be helpful. Those who contacted the Council about neighbour problems or anti-social behaviour were least likely to have found staff helpful (33%). Q22 What did you last contact the Council about? Base Helpful Unhelpful Neither Adaptations 9 100% - - Universal Credit/Housing benefit 9 100% - - Homelessness 1 100% - - Rent enquiry 8 88% - 13% Repairs 292 82% 9% 9% Moving House (Housing Options) 22 73% 9% 18% Housing improvements & Investment 14 64% 14% 21% Garden/close maintenance 17 41% 29% 29% Neighbour problem or Anti-Social Behaviour 6 33% 50% 17% Page 86 of 366
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33 PUBLIC 7. THE REPAIRS SERVICE 7.1. General satisfaction with repairs and maintenance (Q21/22) Over one in four tenants (27%) have had repairs carried out in the last 12 months. These respondents were asked generally, how satisfied they are with the way Renfrewshire Council as their landlord deals with repairs and maintenance. The majority of respondents (86%) were very or fairly satisfied in this respect, 9% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and 5% were very or fairy dissatisfied. Satisfaction has increased from 71% in 2024 to 86% in 2026 and dissatisfaction has decreased from 16% in 2024 to 5% in 2026. All respondents who had reported repairs in the last 12 months were asked how satisfied or dissatisfied they were with the repairs service they experienced. A third of tenants (33%) were complimentary on the quality of the service and 31% said that the tradespersons attended quickly. A further 12% said they had no issues or complaints and 8% said the repair took too long to complete. Q22a Tell us why you were satisfied or dissatisfied? Base: Reported repairs in last 12 months, n=329 No. % Good quality/ service 108 32.8% Attended fast/ quickly 103 31.3% No issues/ complaints 38 11.6% Repair took too long to complete 27 8.2% It was fixed first time 25 7.6% Repair not complete/ still outstanding 22 6.7% Poor quality of workmanship 17 5.2% Lack of communication/ difficult to get through to someone 7 2.1% Other 2 0.6% Page 87 of 366
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34 PUBLIC Analysis by demographic reveals that overall satisfaction varies significantly in terms of: Age: Analysis by age indicates that older respondents aged 65 and over (94%) were more likely to be satisfied with the repairs service than those aged 16-34 (81%). Household composition: Analysis by household composition indicates that 1 parent families were less likely to be satisfied with the repairs service (79%) than single adult households (91%). Length of stay: Tenants who had lived in their home for 21 years or more were most likely to be satisfied with the repairs service (97%). Page 88 of 366
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35 PUBLIC 8. THE HOME 8.1. Overall satisfaction with quality of the home (Q23/24) Just under 9 in 10 tenants (88%) were very or fairly satisfied with the quality of their home, compared to 9% who were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and 3% who were very or fairly dissatisfied. The proportion of respondents who were satisfied with the quality of their home is higher than was reported in 2022 (80%) and in 2024 (72%). The 2026 result is higher than the ARC 2024/25 LA average of 79%. All respondents living in Ferguslie Park were satisfied with the repairs service they received compared to 79% of Gallowhill residents. Q23 Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the quality of your home? PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOWHILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Very satisfied 29.6% - 17.0% 23.6% 20.2% 12.0% 5.0% 42.9% Fairly satisfied 64.1% 100.0% 72.1% 62.7% 62.2% 74.7% 74.4% 49.2% Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 4.8% - 10.1% 6.4% 14.5% 7.2% 15.7% 4.8% Fairly dissatisfied 1.1% - 0.4% 4.5% 2.6% 3.6% 2.5% 3.2% Very dissatisfied 0.3% - 0.4% 2.7% 0.5% 2.4% 2.5% - % satisfied 94% 100% 89% 86% 82% 87% 79% 92% Page 89 of 366
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36 PUBLIC Respondents who were not satisfied with the quality of their home were asked to explain why this was. Respondents were most likely to say this was where their home required repairs (28%) or where they felt their home required new windows or doors. Q24 Can you please explain why you are not satisfied with the quality of your home? Base: Not satisfied with quality of the home, n=139 No. % Home is in need of repairs 39 28.1% New windows/ doors 28 20.1% Need to upgrade kitchen 21 15.1% Problems with damp/ mould 16 11.5% General upgrades/ improvements needed 16 11.5% Heating/ boiler issues 12 8.6% Update bathroom 10 7.2% Walls are cracking/ holes in them 10 7.2% Poor quality/ condition of home 9 6.5% Outside maintenance e.g. gutters/ roof 7 5.0% Home is too small/ big 6 4.3% Issues with close e.g. mess/ needing painted 6 4.3% Other 3 2.2% Analysis by demographic indicates that the results vary significantly in terms of: Age: Satisfaction with the quality of the home is highest amongst the 65 and over age category (92%) and lowest for those aged 16-34 (85%). Sex: Females were less satisfied with the quality of their home (86%) than males (92%). Household composition: Other households (this includes other household compositions such as households with 3 or more adults or multi-generational households) were least likely to be satisfied with the quality of their home (71%), while single adults (90%) and 2 adult households (91%) were most likely to be satisfied with the quality of their home. Disability: Households with a disability were less likely to be satisfied with the quality of their home (85%) than tenants who did not have a disability (90%). Property type: Those living in tenement flats were less likely to be satisfied (84%) than those who lived in multi storey flats (99%). Page 90 of 366
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37 PUBLIC Page 91 of 366
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38 PUBLIC 8.2. Multi-storey blocks (Q25) Just over 1 in 10 tenants (11%) said they lived in a multi storey property. Tenants who lived in multi storey properties and who received a concierge or caretaker service were asked for their opinions on the service. Satisfaction levels were very high at 100% for most aspects with the exception of the facilities provided in the block (99%) and the security of the block (94%). As can be seen in the chart below satisfaction levels have improved for all three aspects that were asked about in the 2022 and 2024 surveys. Q25 If you live in a high rise block could you please provide answers on the following: What do you think of: [% Good 2022/2024/2026 comparison] 2022 2024 2026 Is the caretaker/ concierge easy to contact 94% 95% 100% General attitude of Caretaker / concierge staff 98% 94% 100% The cleanliness of your block 93% 85% 100% Page 92 of 366
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39 PUBLIC 9. NEIGHBOURHOOD MANAGEMENT 9.1. Landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood (Q26) Tenants were asked to rate how satisfied or dissatisfied they were with their landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood they live in. More than nine in ten tenants were very or fairly satisfied in this respect (91%), compared to 7% who were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and 2% who were very or fairly dissatisfied. Satisfaction has increased from 87% in 2022 and 75% in 2024. The 2026 result is higher than the ARC 2024/25 LA average of 80%. Analysis by area reveals that satisfaction with the Council’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood ranges from 88% for tenants living in Johnstone and the Villages and in Gallowhill to 100% for those living in Ferguslie Park. Q26 Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with your landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood you live in? [Analysed by office] PAISLEY FERGUSLIE PARK J'STONE & VILL GLENBURN RENFREW FOXBAR GALLOWHILL J'STONE CASTLE Base 351 32 247 110 193 83 121 63 Very Satisfied 31.9% 9.4% 30.4% 34.5% 36.3% 10.8% 6.6% 65.1% Satisfied 59.0% 90.6% 57.9% 57.3% 58.0% 78.3% 81.0% 33.3% Neither 7.7% - 10.1% 3.6% 5.2% 8.4% 11.6% 1.6% Dissatisfied 1.1% - 1.2% 3.6% 0.5% - - - Very dissatisfied 0.3% - 0.4% 0.9% - 2.4% 0.8% - % Satisfied 91% 100% 88% 92% 94% 89% 88% 98% Page 93 of 366
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40 PUBLIC Analysis by demographic shows that overall satisfaction varies significantly with regards to: Age: Tenants aged 65 and over were more likely to be satisfied in this respect (95%) than tenants aged 16-34 (86%). Sex: Females were less likely to be satisfied (93%) than males (89%). Household composition: Single adult households and 2 adult households were most likely to be satisfied (92%), and 1 parent families were least likely (88%). Disability: Households who had a disability (88%) were less likely to be satisfied than households with no disability (93%). Property type: Those living in tenement flats were less likely to be satisfied in this respect (85%) than all other property types. Length of stay: Tenants who had lived in their home for 21 years or more were more likely to be satisfied (94%) than tenants who had lived in their home less than 2 years (87%). Page 94 of 366
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41 PUBLIC 9.2. Change in the neighbourhood over the past year (Q27) Just 4% have noticed a change in the neighbourhood over the past year. Those living in Foxbar were most likely to have seen a change (11%). No respondents living in Johnstone Castle and in Ferguslie Park had noticed changes. Where respondents had noticed a change they were asked to elaborate on the differences. The open ended comments have been coded thematically and show that over 6 in 10 respondents (62%) had experienced anti-social behaviour issues and a further 17% said the area had gone downhill. Area analysis indicated that those living in Johnstone and the villages were most likely to believe the area has gone downhill (56%), while those living in Paisley (76%), Glenburn (75%) and in Foxbar (78%) were most likely to have experienced anti-social behaviour. Q27a Could you elaborate on the differences Base: Have seen a difference in their neighbourhood, n=52 No. % ASB/ ASN issues 32 61.5% Area gone downhill 9 17.3% Happy/ got better 6 11.5% Place is a mess with litter/ rubbish 5 9.6% No maintenance been done e.g. close cleaning/ grass cutting 5 9.6% Page 95 of 366
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42 PUBLIC 9.3. Best thing about the neighbourhood (Q28) All respondents were then asked an open question relating to the best things about living in their neighbourhood. Answers have been coded thematically to allow for quantitative analysis. Tenants were most likely to say the best thing about their neighbourhood is that they have good neighbours or is a good area to live (33%), or that it is quiet and peaceful (25%). Q28 What is best thing about living in your neighbourhood? Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % Good neighbours/ area 397 33.1% Quiet/ peaceful 297 24.8% Central for everything 103 8.6% Happy/ no issues/ problems 99 8.3% Always lived here/ been here long time 84 7.0% Maintain the area 58 4.8% Close to local amenities/ good amenities 43 3.6% Close to family/ friends 36 3.0% It is ok/ fine 30 2.5% Good concierge/ warden 13 1.1% Feel safe 10 0.8% Affordable rent 1 0.1% Other 3 0.3% Don't know 130 10.8% Page 96 of 366
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43 PUBLIC 9.4. Greatest problems or issues in the neighbourhood (Q29) Tenants were then asked what they perceive to be the greatest problems or issues in their neighbourhood. Again, answers have been coded thematically. As can be seen from the table below, over 4 in 10 tenants (44%) did not believe there were any problems or issues in their neighbourhood. Where tenants did believe an issue to be present, this was most likely in relation to communal services (8%), regarding anti-social behaviour (6%) and where they had experienced drug or alcohol problems (4%). Q29 And what would you say is the greatest problem or issue in your neighbourhood? Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % Nothing/ no issues 528 44.0% Communal services e.g. close cleaning/ grass cutting 99 8.3% ASB/ ASN issues 74 6.2% Drug / Alcohol problems 47 3.9% Parking issues 40 3.3% Litter/ rubbish in area 25 2.1% Dog fouling 23 1.9% Lack of activities for kids/ kids hanging about 22 1.8% Bins e.g. not enough/ overflowing 21 1.8% Speeding cars 19 1.6% Don't feel safe 6 0.5% Derelict buildings 5 0.4% Need to vet tenants 2 0.2% Other 7 0.6% Don't know 318 26.5% Page 97 of 366
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44 PUBLIC 10. RENT AND BENEFITS 10.1. Value for money (Q30/31) Tenants were asked to rate the extent to which they considered their rent to be value for money. Over 9 in 10 tenants (93%) were of the opinion their rent represents very or fairly good value for money, compared to 6% who said it represented neither good nor poor value and 1% who said it represented very or fairly poor value for money. The proportion of respondents who felt their rent represented very or fairly good value for money has increased from 83% in 2022 and 70% in 2024 to 93% in 2026. Renfrewshire Council is performing above the ARC 2024/2025 LA average (80%) with regards to value for money for rent. Respondents were asked to explain why they said their rent was not good value for money. As can be seen from the table below, the main reason was where tenants said rents were too expensive or dissatisfaction with rent increases (52%) or where they were unhappy with the quality of services (25%). Q31 Can you please explain why you say that value for money for your rent is not good? Base: Do not think rent is good value, n=88 No. % Too expensive/ keeps increasing 46 52.3% Receive poor services 22 25.0% Don't pay rent/ receive housing benefit 6 6.8% Homes needing upgrades 6 6.8% It is ok 5 5.7% Poor value for size 4 4.5% Don't know 4 4.5% Page 98 of 366
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45 PUBLIC Analysis of this question by demographic indicates that value for money varies significantly in terms of: Household composition: Single adults were most likely to say their rent was good value for money (95%) and “other” households (including households with 3 or more adults, multi-generational households etc) were least likely (84%). Property type: Multi storey flats (99%) were most likely to say rents were good value than tenement flats (88%). Page 99 of 366
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46 PUBLIC 10.2. Housing benefit and Universal Credit (Q32) Just under 1 in 4 respondents (22%) stated that they were in receipt of full housing benefit, 1% were in receipt of partial housing benefit, 33% were in receipt of Universal Credit, 6% received partial Universal Credit and 25% said they did not receive any housing benefit and 3% stated they did not know. Q32 Does your household currently receive housing benefit?/Universal Credit? 2022 2024 2026 Base 1316 1223 1200 Yes, Full housing benefit 51.1% 47.3% 22.3% Yes, Partial housing benefit 3.6% 7.1% 1.2% Yes Universal Credit 20.5% 17.4% 33.3% Yes, Partial Universal Credit* * * 5.6% Don’t receive housing benefit 23.9% 25.0% 37.4% Don’t know 0.9% 3.1% 0.3% * New option in 2026 10.3. Charging higher rents for new/ improved homes (Q33) Tenants were asked if they think the Council should charge higher rents for new build homes, newly improved homes and homes that are more energy efficient. Four in ten respondents were not in favour of this (41%) and a further 34% were unsure. On the other hand 13% would be happy with this if the Council were to focus on new build homes only and 10% would like to see new build homes, improved and energy efficient homes. Page 100 of 366
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47 PUBLIC The results to this question have been compared to the City of Edinburgh Council’s 2023 Rent Consultation. It should be noted that the Renfrewshire Council survey included an option for homes to be energy efficient which wasn’t included in the CEC survey. As can be seen below, the proportion of respondents answering no to this question is broadly similar for CEC (39%) and Renfrewshire Council (41%). On the other hand, more Renfrewshire tenants answered don’t know (34%) than CEC tenants (16%). A similar proportion said they would like to see their landlord focusing on newly completed homes (12% for CEC and 13% for Renfrewshire Council) or newly modernised homes only (2% for both CEC and Renfrewshire Council). Renfrewshire Council tenants were less likely (10%) than CEC tenants (31%) to have answered the ‘yes to all’ option. CEC 2023 (n=943) Renfrewshire Council TSS 2026 Yes, newly completed homes only 12% 13.1% Yes, newly modernised homes only 1.9% 2.4% Yes, houses that are energy efficient * 0.1% Yes, to all 31.3% 9.8% No 38.9% 41.2% Don’t know 15.9% 33.5% * Not an option in CEC survey Page 101 of 366
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48 PUBLIC 11. SERVICE PRIORITIES AND IMPROVEMENTS 11.1. Best aspect of service provided (Q34) All respondents were then asked an open question regarding what they thought was the best thing about the Housing Services that Renfrewshire Council provides. As can be seen from the table below, 21% of tenants reported good services or that they were happy overall, 17% spoke about customer service for example staff being helpful or friendly, 13% said they had no issues or complaints and 13% were happy with the repairs service. Q34 What do you think is the best thing about the Housing Service that Renfrewshire Council provides? [PROBE FULLY] Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % Good services/ happy overall 256 21.3% Customer service e.g. staff helpful/ friendly 205 17.1% No issues/ complaints 160 13.3% Repairs service 158 13.2% Affordable rent / cheaper than private 54 4.5% Good/ secure homes 44 3.7% Maintain the area 23 1.9% Good concierge/ warden service 20 1.7% Like the area/ neighbours 8 0.7% Upgrades/ improvements to homes 6 0.5% Don't know 291 24.3% Page 102 of 366
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49 PUBLIC 11.2. Service improvement (Q35) Tenants were then given the opportunity to provide an open response to the parts of the housing service of Renfrewshire Council that could be improved upon. Over one in four tenants stated ‘none’ (28%) and a further 43% answered ‘don’t know’ to this question. Where a suggestion was provided, this was most likely to be in relation to communal services (7%) and upgrading and improving homes (7%). Q35 If you were to recommend a key area for improvement for the Housing Service that Renfrewshire Council provides, what would it be? [PROBE FULLY] Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % Nothing/ no issues 333 27.8% Communal services e.g. close cleaning/ grass cutting/ back court 84 7.0% Upgrades/ improvements to homes 82 6.8% Repairs service 46 3.8% Build new homes 43 3.6% Lower rents/ keep affordable 28 2.3% Allocation of homes/ vet tenants 16 1.3% Customer service 16 1.3% Fix the parking issues 15 1.3% Sort the bin areas 14 1.2% Deal with ASB/ ASN 11 0.9% More for kids in area 9 0.8% Deal with damp/ mould 6 0.5% Better communication/ listen to tenants 6 0.5% Other 4 0.3% Don't know 512 42.7% Page 103 of 366
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50 PUBLIC 12. HOUSEHOLD INFORMATION 12.1. Equalities overview 12.2. Tenant or partner (Q36) Almost all respondents (95%) who took part in the survey were the tenant of the house, while 5% were the tenant’s partner or spouse. Page 104 of 366
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51 PUBLIC 12.3. Age and gender (Q37/38) Just over half of respondents (54%) were female, while 46% were male. In terms of the age profile of respondents, 17% were aged 18 to 34, 28% were aged 35 to 44, 33% were aged 45 to 64 and 23% were aged over 65. Just 1 respondent refused to provide their age. Q37 What is your age? Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % 16-24 26 2.2% 25-34 176 14.7% 35-44 330 27.5% 45-54 211 17.6% 55-64 180 15.0% 65-74 213 17.8% 75+ 63 5.3% Prefer not to say 1 0.1% 12.4. Household composition (Q39) In terms of household composition, 49% consisted of single adults, 20% were two adult households, 4% consisted of three of more adults, 16% were one-parent families and 11% were two parent families. Q39 How would you describe the composition of your household? Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % One adult under 60 320 26.7% One adult aged 60 or over 265 22.1% Two adults both under 60 140 11.7% Two adults both over 60 68 5.7% Two adults, at least one 60 or over 30 2.5% Three or more adults, 16 or over 47 3.9% 1 parent family with children at least 1 under 16 192 16.0% 2 parent family with children at least 1 under 16 134 11.2% Other (please specify) 4 0.3% Page 105 of 366
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52 PUBLIC 12.5. Disability status (Q40/41) More than 1 in 4 households (28%) stated that they or someone in their household had a long- term illness, health problem or disability that limits their daily activities or the work they can do (including problems due to old age). The most common long-term illness, health problem or disability cited was mobility or physical disabilities (70%), followed by mental ill health (18%). Q41 What is the nature of their disabilities? Base: Have a disability, n=338 No. % Mobility/ physical disabilities 236 69.8% Mental ill health 60 17.8% Being frail due to old age 14 4.1% Difficulties with sight 6 1.8% Difficulties with hearing 6 1.8% Drug/ Alcohol dependency 3 0.9% Learning difficulties 2 0.6% Other 15 4.4% Prefer not to say 42 12.4% 12.6. Ethnicity (Q42) Almost all tenants (92%) were White Scottish (88%) or White other British (4%). Q42 Can you tell me which of the following groups you consider you belong to? Base: All respondents, n=1200 No. % White Scottish 1060 88.3% White Other British 2 0.2% White Irish - - Gypsy/ Traveler - - Polish 83 6.9% Any other white ethnic group (please specify) 1 0.1% Any mixed or multiple ethnic groups (please specify) 2 0.2% Pakistani, Pakistani Scottish or Pakistani British 12 1.0% Indian, Indian Scottish or Indian British 9 0.8% Bangladeshi, Bangladeshi Scottish or Bangladeshi British - - Chinese, Chinese Scottish or Chinese British 4 0.3% Any other Asian, Asian Scottish or Asian British (please specify) 1 0.1% African, African Scottish or African British 8 0.7% Caribbean, Caribbean Scottish or Caribbean British - - Black, Black Scottish or Black British - - Any other African, Caribbean or Black (please specify) - - Arab, Arab Scottish or Arab British 5 0.4% Any other group (please specify) 9 0.8% Prefer not to say 4 0.3% Page 106 of 366
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53 PUBLIC 13. CONCLUSIONS The 2026 Tenant Satisfaction Survey presents a very positive picture of Renfrewshire Council’s performance as a landlord. Based on 1,200 tenant interviews, the findings show strong levels of satisfaction across the main service areas and a clear improvement since the 2024 survey. Importantly, the Council is performing above the Scottish Local Authority average across the key Scottish Social Housing Charter indicators included in the report. 13.1. Areas of high performance Overall satisfaction is a particular strength, with 91% of tenants very or fairly satisfied with the service provided by Renfrewshire Council as their landlord. This is a substantial improvement from 72% in 2024 and is also above the 2024/25 Local Authority average of 80%. The Council also performs strongly in relation to communication and tenant involvement. More than nine in ten tenants felt the Council was good at keeping them informed about services and decisions, and 94% were satisfied with opportunities to participate in decision-making. There are also very strong findings in relation to tenants’ homes and neighbourhoods. Satisfaction with the quality of the home stands at 88%, satisfaction with neighbourhood management is 91%, and 94% of tenants are happy with the type of home they currently have. In addition, 96% felt they had about the right number of rooms. These results indicate that most tenants feel their home and local environment meet their needs. Value for money is another notable area of high performance. The survey shows that 93% of tenants felt their rent represented good value when taking account of both accommodation and services. This is well above the Scottish Local Authority average and represents a strong endorsement of the perceived value of the Council’s housing offer. 13.2. Areas for consideration and focus for improvement While the overall results are strong, the report highlights several areas where continued focus could help sustain and further improve tenant satisfaction. Among tenants who were not satisfied overall, the most common reasons related to communal services, outstanding repairs, dissatisfaction with the repairs service, and the need for home upgrades. These issues should remain a priority for service review and improvement planning. Repairs performance is positive overall, with 86% of tenants satisfied with repairs carried out in the last 12 months. However, repairs are also one of the main reasons given by dissatisfied tenants. This suggests that the Council should continue to focus on repair completion, communication during the repairs process, and consistency of service experience. The results also point to some variation across areas and tenant groups. For example, overall satisfaction was highest in Ferguslie Park and lower in Gallowhill. Tenants living in tenement flats, tenants with a disability, and those in some longer tenancy groups were also less likely to be satisfied overall. These differences suggest that targeted follow-up actions may be useful to Page 107 of 366
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54 PUBLIC understand whether particular service or property-related issues are affecting specific groups or locations. Neighbourhood and communal service issues should also remain an area of focus. Although satisfaction with neighbourhood management is high, tenants who identified problems most commonly referred to communal services, anti-social behaviour, and drug or alcohol-related issues. Continued partnership working and clear communication about actions taken may help maintain confidence in neighbourhood management. 13.3. Overall conclusion Overall, the 2026 survey findings are very encouraging. They show a strong recovery and improvement since 2024, with high satisfaction across the main Charter measures and performance above the Local Authority average. The key challenge now is to sustain these positive results while focusing improvement activity on the areas that matter most to dissatisfied tenants: repairs, communal services, home condition and localised neighbourhood concerns. Page 108 of 366
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55 PUBLIC Appendix 1 Survey Questionnaire Page 109 of 366
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56 PUBLIC Overall satisfaction 1. [SSHC1] Taking everything into account, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the overall service provided by Renfrewshire Council as your landlord? Very satisfied 1 Fairly satisfied 2 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 3 Fairly dissatisfied 4 Very dissatisfied 5 No opinion 6 [CODE 3,4,5] If not satisfied, can you explain why? [INTERVIEWER: PLEASE NOTE THAT IF TENANT MENTIONS SERVICES OR ISSUES THAT ARE NOT HOUSING SERVICE ISSUES, REMIND THEM IT RELATES TO THE HOUSING SERVICE AND ASK THEM ABOUT THE LANDLORD SERVICE] Your home 2. How long have you lived in your current home? Under 1 year 1 Go to Q3 for less than two years 1-2 years 2 3-5 years 3 Go to Q4 6-10 years 4 11-20 years 5 21+ years 6 Don’t know/ can’t remember 7 3. If you moved into your current home in the past two years, how satisfied were you with its condition?) Very satisfied 1 Fairly satisfied 2 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 3 Fairly dissatisfied 4 Very dissatisfied 5 Don’t know/ Can’t remember 6 If dissatisfied, why were you not satisfied with the condition of your home when you moved in? 4. Are you happy with the type of house you currently have? Yes 1 No (why is that?) 2 Don’t know 3 5. Do you think the number of rooms you have in your home is….? Too few 1 Go to Q7 Too many 2 Go to Q6 About right 3 Go to Q7 6. If too many, would you be willing for someone from Renfrewshire Council to contact you to discuss if you would be willing to move to a smaller property ….? Page 110 of 366
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57 PUBLIC Yes (confirm that respondent happy for contact details to be passed over to the Council so that they can be contacted in this respect. All other responses will remain confidential and anonymous) 1 No 2 Communication and Participation 7. [SSHC2] How good or poor do you feel your landlord (Renfrewshire Council) is at keeping you informed about their housing services and decisions? Very good 1 Fairly good 2 Neither good nor poor 3 Fairly poor 4 Very poor 5 8. Renfrewshire Council’s Housing service uses a range of different methods to contact and consult with tenants. Which methods do you prefer Renfrewshire Council Housing Service to use to consult with you about issues that may affect you? (tick as many that apply) By letter 1 Telephone call 2 By e mail/SMS text 3 Magazine / Newsletter 4 Online 5 Personal visit 6 Organised public meetings 7 Through Tenants and Residents Associations 8 Through Tenants Forums 9 By Focus Group 10 Other 11 None 12 9. If Renfrewshire Council was looking to discuss any points similar to those raised in the survey, would you be willing to participate? Yes 1 Go to Q10 No 2 Go to Q11 10. If you are willing would you be happy for us to pass your contact details on to Renfrewshire Council so they can get in touch about any potential opportunities? All your other responses will remain completely confidential. Yes 1 Go to Q11 No 2 11. [SSHC5] How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the opportunities given to you to participate in your landlord’s (Renfrewshire Council’s) decision making processes? Very satisfied 1 Go to Q13 Fairly satisfied 2 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 3 Go to Q12 Fairly dissatisfied 4 Very dissatisfied 5 Page 111 of 366
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58 PUBLIC 12. What could Renfrewshire Council do to make you satisfied with the opportunities for getting involved? Go to Q13 Contact with Housing Services 13. How do you want to contact Renfrewshire Council Housing Service? [ALL THAT APPLY] Email 1 Phone 2 In person 3 Online 4 Letter 5 Other (please specify) 6 14. How would you prefer Renfrewshire Council Housing Service to contact you? [ALL THAT APPLY] Email 1 Phone 2 In person 3 Online 4 Dedicated Housing App 5 Letter 6 Text message 7 Other (please specify) 8 15. How do you access the internet? ALL THAT APPLY Home wifi 1 Got to Q16b Mobile phone 2 At a public building like a library 3 Other (please specify) 4 Do not use the internet 5 Go to Q16 16. If you do not have access to the internet, what is the reason Too expensive 1 I am not interested in the internet 2 I do not have a device that allows access the internet 3 I don’t think I have the skills/online safety awareness to navigate the internet 4 Other (please specify) 5 (Note to Research resource, Q16 provide neighbourhood breakdown of responses) 16b. Would you be interested in an optional home Wi-Fi service provided by the Council available for an additional charge?” Yes 1 Potentially, but would depend upon the cost 2 No 3 Don’t know 4 17. Have you contacted Renfrewshire Council about a housing matter in the last 12 months? Page 112 of 366
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59 PUBLIC Yes 1 Go to Q18 No 2 Go to Q21 Can’t remember 3 18. Whom did you contact? Contact Centre 1 Housing Officer 2 Repairs and maintenance officer 3 Other (please specify) 4 19. What did you last contact the Council about? Repairs 1 Adaptations 2 Housing improvements & Investment 3 Rent enquiry 4 Universal Credit/Housing benefit 5 Homelessness 6 Moving House (Housing Options) 7 Neighbour problem or Anti-Social Behaviour 8 Garden/close maintenance 9 Other (please specify) 10 20. Did you find the staff helpful or unhelpful? Helpful 1 Unhelpful 2 Neither 3 Page 113 of 366
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60 PUBLIC The Repairs Service [INTERVIWER: READ OUT] Turning now to the Council’s reactive repairs service which comprises emergency, urgent and routine repairs, can I ask you… 21. Have you had any repairs carried out in this property in the last 12 months Yes 1 Go to Q22 No 2 Go to Q23 22. Generally, how satisfied are you with the way Renfrewshire Council deals with repairs and maintenance? Very satisfied 1 Fairly satisfied 2 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 3 Fairly dissatisfied 3 Very dissatisfied 4 Tell us why you were satisfied or dissatisfied Page 114 of 366
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61 PUBLIC Your Home 23. [SSHC7] Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the quality of your home? Very satisfied 1 Go to Q25 or Q26 Fairly satisfied 2 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 3 Go to Q24 Fairly dissatisfied 4 Very dissatisfied 5 24. Can you please explain why you are not satisfied with the quality of your home? 25. [INTERVIEWER: ASK QUESTION ONLY IF LIVE IN A MULTI STOREY FLAT & RECEIVE CONCIERGE/CARETAKER SERVICE – MARKED ON SAMPLE. OTHERWISE SKIP TO Q26] If you live in a high rise block could you please provide answers on the following: What do you think of: Very good Fairly good Neither nor Fairly poor Very poor General attitude of Caretaker / concierge staff 1 2 3 4 5 Is the caretaker/ concierge easy to contact 1 2 3 4 5 The condition of your block 1 2 3 4 5 The cleanliness of your block 1 2 3 4 5 The security of your block 1 2 3 4 5 The common areas within your block 1 2 3 4 5 The facilities provided in your block 1 2 3 4 5 Page 115 of 366
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62 PUBLIC Neighbourhood Management 26. [SSHC13] Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with your landlord’s contribution to the management of the neighbourhood you live in? [INTERVIEWER NOTE: Neighbourhood is defined as the street in which the tenant lives and the immediate surrounding area.] Very satisfied 1 Fairly satisfied 2 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 3 Fairly dissatisfied 4 Very dissatisfied 5 27. Have you noticed any difference to your neighbourhood over the past year Yes No Could you elaborate on the differences 28. What is best thing about living in your neighbourhood? [ASK AS OPEN QUESTION AND CODE RESPONSE – DO NOT PROMPT ] 29. And what would you say is the greatest problem or issue in your neighbourhood? [ASK AS OPEN QUESTION AND CODE RESPONSE – DO NOT PROMPT] Page 116 of 366
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63 PUBLIC Rent and benefits 30. [SSHC25] Taking into account the accommodation and services your landlord provides, to what extent do you think your rent represents value for money? Is it… Very good 1 Go to Q32 Fairly good 2 Neither good nor poor 3 Go to Q31 Fairly poor 4 Very poor 5 31. Can you please explain why you say that value for money for your rent is not good? 32. Does your household currently receive housing benefit?/Universal Credit? Yes, Full housing benefit 1 Yes, Partial housing benefit 2 Yes Universal Credit 3 Yes, Partial Universal Credit 4 Don’t receive housing benefit/Universal credit 5 Don’t know 6 We would like your opinion on rent charging 33. Do you think we should charge higher rents for new build homes, newly improved homes and homes that are more energy efficient? Yes, New Build homes only 1 Yes, newly improved homes only 2 Yes, houses that are energy efficient 3 Yes all New Build newly improved homes and energy efficient homes 4 No 5 Don’t Know 6 Page 117 of 366
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64 PUBLIC Services Priorities and Improvements 34. What do you think is the best thing about the Housing Service that Renfrewshire Council provides? [PROBE FULLY] 35. If you were to recommend a key area for improvement for the Housing Service that Renfrewshire Council provides, what would it be? [PROBE FULLY] Page 118 of 366
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65 PUBLIC About You and Your Household Finally, I’d like to ask some questions about you and your household. Please be assured that these questions are completely confidential and they will only be used for analysis purposes to see if there are differences in the views between different tenants. 36. Which of these are you? Tenant of this home 1 Tenant’s partner/ spouse 2 37. What is your age? 16-24 1 25-34 2 35-44 3 45-54 4 55-64 5 65-74 6 75+ 7 Prefer not to say 8 38. Which of the following best describes how you think of yourself? Male 1 Female 2 In another way 3 39. How would you describe the composition of your household? One adult under 60 1 One adult aged 60 or over 2 Two adults both under 60 3 Two adults both over 60 4 Two adults, at least one 60 or over 5 Three or more adults, 16 or over 6 1 parent family with children at least 1 under 16 7 2 parent family with children at least 1 under 16 8 Other (please specify) 9 40. Does anyone living in this household have any long term illness, health problem or disability which limits their daily activities or the work they can do (including problems due to old age)? Yes 1 Go to Q41 No 2 Go to Q42 41. What is the nature of their disabilities? Mental ill health 1 Mobility/ physical disabilities 2 Learning difficulties 3 Difficulties with sight 4 Difficulties with hearing 5 Dementia 6 Being frail due to old age 7 HIV/ AIDS 8 Drug/ Alcohol dependency 9 Other (please write in) 10 Don’t know 11 Page 119 of 366
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66 PUBLIC 42. Renfrewshire Council monitors the ethnic origin of its tenants to ensure it provides a quality service to all members of the community who require it. Can you tell me which of the following groups you consider you belong to? WHITE White Scottish 1 White Other British 2 White Irish 3 Gypsy/ Traveler 4 Polish 5 Any other white ethnic group (please specify) 6 MIXED OR MULTIPLE ETHNIC GROUPS Any mixed or multiple ethnic groups (please specify) 7 ASIAN, ASIAN SCOTTISH OR ASIAN BRITISH Pakistani, Pakistani Scottish or Pakistani British 8 Indian, Indian Scottish or Indian British 9 Bangladeshi, Bangladeshi Scottish or Bangladeshi British 10 Chinese, Chinese Scottish or Chinese British 11 Other (please specify) 12 AFRICAN, CARIBBEAN OR BLACK African, African Scottish or African British 13 Caribbean, Caribbean Scottish or Caribbean British 14 Black, Black Scottish or Black British 15 Other (please specify) 16 OTHER ETHNIC GROUP Arab, Arab Scottish or Arab British 17 Any other group (please specify) 18 THANK YOU AND CLOSE Page 120 of 366
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67 PUBLIC Appendix 2 Technical Report Summary Page 121 of 366
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68 PUBLIC TECHNICAL REPORT SHEET – QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH Project number P1575 Project name Renfrewshire Council Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 Objectives of the research The aim of the survey was to seek tenants’ views on the services Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Service provides and how well it performs these services and to help identify areas where the service can be improved. Specifically the research will provide customers views on the following: Overall satisfaction The quality of information provided Quality of accommodation Contribution to the neighbourhood How the Council deals with anti-social behaviour Tenant involvement/ opportunities for participation Value for money. Target population Tenants of Renfrewshire Council Description of sample frame/ source and validation methods if applicable Database was provided by Renfrewshire Council containing 10225 tenants with name, address and telephone number and email addresses where available. Sampling method (probability or non- probability) and quotas used A representative sample was drawn across geographical areas to ensure coverage of all stock types. Sample units drawn 4320 Target sample size The aim was to achieve 1200 interviews Achieved sample size and reasons if target not achieved A total of 1,200 tenant interviews were achieved. Date of fieldwork Interviewing took place between the 26th of May and the 19th of June 2026. Data collection method Interviews were undertaken with the tenant or their partner on a face to face basis. All responses were recorded electronically on tablet, entered directly into our SNAP survey software package. Response rate and definition and method of how calculated 28% (1200 interviews from a sample of 4320) Page 122 of 366
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69 PUBLIC Questionnaire length c. 10-15 mins Any incentives? No Number of interviewers 8 interviewers were working on this. Interview/ self- completion validation methods 10% of interviews were validated using respondent recontact. Showcards or any other materials used? Not applicable Weighting procedures (if applicable) Not applicable Estimating and imputation procedures (if applicable) Not applicable Reliability of findings and methods of statistical analysis if applicable Data accurate overall to +/-2.66% for tenants based upon a 50% estimate at the 95% confidence level Page 123 of 366
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PUBLIC __________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18th August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Housing Landlord Compliance – Damp and Mould Policy ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Social landlords are required to ensure that all duties in relation to tenant and resident safety are met and that effective systems are in place to ensure compliance with statutory, legislative, and regulatory obligations. 1.2 The Housing Landlord Compliance Strategy 2025-2028, which sets out the strategic approach to compliance across the key areas of compliance relating to Council Housing assets was approved at the Communities and Housing Policy Board on 11th March 2025 with six associated policies also subsequently presented and approved at Board. 1.3 The Housing Landlord Compliance Strategy 2025–2028 included a commitment to develop additional compliance policies in response to emerging legislative requirements and best practice. This report presents the proposed Damp and Mould Policy, which sets out how Renfrewshire Council will meet its statutory, contractual and regulatory obligations in relation to the management of damp and mould within Council housing stock. The policy has been developed to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, which come into force on 6 October 2026. 1.4 The report also outlines the additional resources that have been put in place within Housing Services to support compliance with the new regulatory requirements and the effective implementation of the policy. ___________________________________________________________________ Item 6 Page 124 of 366
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PUBLIC 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Approves the Damp and Mould Policy, set out at Appendix A of this report. 2.2 Notes the additional resources established within Housing Services to support delivery of the policy and compliance with the new regulatory requirements. 3. Background 3.1 The Housing Landlord Compliance Strategy set out how Renfrewshire Council as a landlord and employer, complies with the statutory, legislative and regulatory responsibilities of Renfrewshire Council and to provide reasonable assurance to officers, elected members and all relevant stakeholders that this is the case. 3.2 The Damp and Mould Policy has been developed in response to new Scottish Government regulations implementing Awaab's Law. The legislation is named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old child who tragically died in 2020 from a respiratory condition linked to prolonged exposure to mould within his family's social housing property in England. The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 will come into force on 6 October 2026 and place new duties on both social and private landlords in relation to the assessment and remediation of damp and mould. 3.3 A review of the current Housing Repairs and Maintenance Service, which is responsible for responding to damp and mould cases, has been undertaken to assess its capacity to meet the enhanced requirements arising from the new regulations. The review identified a need for additional dedicated resources to support compliance and service delivery to meet the requirements of the new regulations. 4. Housing Landlord Compliance Policies – Damp and Mould 4.1 The proposed Damp and Mould Policy is attached as Appendix A to this report. The policy sets out Renfrewshire Council's commitment to preventing, identifying and addressing damp and mould within its housing stock and describes how compliance will be achieved and monitored. The policy establishes the framework for managing damp and mould risks and includes the policy scope, guiding principles, roles and responsibilities, operational processes, data management arrangements and performance monitoring requirements. Page 125 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.2 During 2025/26, the Council resolved 361 damp and mould cases within its housing stock. These cases were managed through the existing resources within the Housing Repairs and Maintenance Service. In recognition of both the volume of cases and the additional demands arising from the new regulatory framework, a dedicated Damp and Mould Team is now being established to ensure sufficient resources are in place to manage all reports of damp and mould within our housing stock and ensure compliance with the new regulations. 4.3 The new team will provide a specialist service focused on the effective management of damp and mould cases and delivering outcomes for affected tenants. The team will also play a key role in the monitoring of Council housing through the use of environmental sensors, supporting the early identification of damp and mould risks and helping to determine underlying causes. This targeted approach will strengthen compliance arrangements while enabling the existing team of Repairs and Maintenance Officers to focus on wider general repairs activities. The dedicated team will comprise: • 1 Housing Condition Manager (Damp and Mould) • 3 Repairs and Maintenance Officers; and • 1 Damp and Mould Case Officer. The effectiveness and capacity of the new structure will be kept under review as the impact of the new regulatory requirements becomes clearer and service demand is assessed. 4.4 Performance against the three new Damp and Mould Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) introduced by the Scottish Housing Regulator will be reported through the Annual Return on the Scottish Social Housing Charter and included in the annual performance report presented to the Communities and Housing Policy Board each May. . The KPIs measure: • the average time taken to resolve damp and mould cases, • the percentage of resolved damp and mould cases that are subsequently reopened, and • the number of damp and mould cases that remain open at the year end. In addition, a range of damp and mould performance indicators will be developed and refined in line with the new Scottish Government guidance and legislative requirements due to come into effect from October 2026, ensuring that performance monitoring and reporting arrangements remain compliant with national standards and reflect emerging best practice. _________________________________________________________________ Page 126 of 366
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – Employee costs associated with the Damp and Mould team and maintenance costs associated with carrying out statutory and regulatory compliance works will be funded through the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and incorporated within the long-term HRA Business Plan as a permanent budget commitment. The additional resource requirement is driven primarily by increased statutory and regulatory obligations relating to damp and mould management and the need to ensure the Council is appropriately resourced to comply with emerging legislative requirements 2. HR & Organisational Development – Recruitment of new posts to the Damp and Mould team. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is safe – ensuring tenants have a safe place to live. 4. Legal –The policy has been developed to support compliance with the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026. While no direct legal implications arise from approval of the policy, the implementation of the new statutory requirements may increase demand for legal advice and support and could result in an increased volume of disrepair- related claims or defences as tenant awareness of their rights increases. 5. Property/Assets - Ensuring assets are protected from risk. 6. Information Technology - None. 7. Equality & Human Rights - (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. There is a positive impact on particular vulnerability groups that will be prioritised in line with the policy. The results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety - The strategy and policies align with the Council’s Corporate Health and Safety Policy. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk - The absence of policies could put the Council at risk of failing to comply with statutory duties for landlord compliance and could be reputationally damaging. . 11. Privacy Impact – None. 12. Climate Risk – A Climate Change Impact Assessment has been completed. No impact has been identified. Page 127 of 366
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PUBLIC 13. Children’s Rights – There is a positive impact on particular vulnerability groups such as children that will be prioritised in line with the policy. 14. Cosla Policy Position – None. ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers Appendix A – Housing Damp and Mould Policy ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Karen Sillars, Housing Asset & Investment Manager Email: karen.sillars@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 128 of 366
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1 PUBLIC DAMP AND MOULD POLICY Policy Owner: Housing Asset & Investment Team Version: 1.2 Approval Date: July 2026 Review Date: July 2029 Page 129 of 366
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2 PUBLIC Contents 1. Introduction ............................................................................................................. 3 2. How to report Damp and Mould .............................................................................. 3 3. Purpose .................................................................................................................. 3 4. Scope ...................................................................................................................... 4 5. Definitions ............................................................................................................... 4 6. Key Principles ......................................................................................................... 5 7. Roles and Responsibilities ...................................................................................... 5 8. Responding to Reports of Damp and Mould ........................................................... 6 9. Timescales for responding to reports of Damp and Mould ...................................... 6 10. Tenant Rights and Compensation ........................................................................ 7 11. Investigation .......................................................................................................... 8 12. Remedial Actions .................................................................................................. 8 13. Tenant Support and Advice ................................................................................... 9 14. Tenants Requiring Enhanced Support .................................................................. 9 15. Preventing Damp and Mould .............................................................................. 10 16. Data Management .............................................................................................. 10 17. Monitoring and Performance Management ......................................................... 11 18. Complaints and Escalation ................................................................................. 11 19. Training, Competence and Contractor Management .......................................... 12 20. Equality, Diversity and Human Rights ................................................................. 12 21. Policy Review ..................................................................................................... 12 22. Alternative formats .............................................................................................. 12 Page 130 of 366
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3 PUBLIC 1. Introduction Renfrewshire Council is committed to providing safe, warm, dry, and habitable homes that are free from unacceptable levels of damp and mould. The Council recognises the significant impact these conditions can have on tenants’ health, wellbeing, and quality of life. It will take a proactive, preventative and rigorous approach, to the prevention, identification and resolution of these conditions. The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 comes into force on 6 October 2026. This policy establishes the Council's approach to meeting the requirements of those Regulations and complying with the wider statutory and regulatory framework, including: • Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 • Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 • Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 • Scottish Secure Tenants (Right to Repair) Regulations 2002 • Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 • Equality Act 2010 • Human Rights Act 1998 • Data Protection Act 2018 • UK GDPR ________________________________________________________________________ 2. How to Report Damp and Mould This document sets out Renfrewshire Council’s policy in relation to damp and mould in houses managed by Renfrewshire Council. Damp or mould in houses managed by Renfrewshire Council can be reported by: • Telephoning the repair line: 0300 300 0300 • Using the freephone Repairs Direct phones which are located within Johnstone Town Hall and Paisley Customer Service Centre • Email: repairs@renfrewshire.gov.uk • Online services: www.myaccount.renfrewshire.gov.uk or scan the QR code below: Note – A “MyAccount” log in is required to use our online services. ________________________________________________________________________ Page 131 of 366
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4 PUBLIC 3. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to enable the Council to: • Prevent and manage damp and mould effectively. • Provide clear response times and service standards. • Ensure properties are maintained to a high standard through the delivery of efficient and effective repair and maintenance services. • Have a focussed approach to the prevention, treatment and resolution of damp and mould, with better data and improved reporting and identification. • Provide assurance that measures are in place to identify, manage and mitigate risks associated with damp and mould; and • Comply with legal duties, regulatory requirements and good practice standards. ________________________________________________________________________ 4. Scope This policy applies to: • All properties owned or managed by the Council; this includes any properties where the Council has repair responsibilities. • All tenants, members of their household and occupants of these properties. • All staff, contractors, and partner organisations involved in the management and maintenance of these properties. ________________________________________________________________________ 5. Definitions Condensation The process whereby warm, moist air forms water droplets on colder surfaces. Damp The presence of excessive moisture in a building structure, including: • Rising damp (moisture rising from the ground due to missing or failed damp protection) • Penetrating damp (water entering due to external defects through walls/roof/gutters or building defects) • Condensation-related damp Page 132 of 366
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5 PUBLIC Mould Fungal growth resulting from excess moisture, often appearing as black, green, or white patches and spread through airborne spores. ________________________________________________________________________ 6. Key Principles In implementing this policy, the Council will: • Operate a proactive and rigorous approach to damp and mould. • Respond in compliance with The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026. • Take a whole-property (fabric-first) approach. • Prioritise health and vulnerability. • Ensure early intervention and prevention. • Diagnose the root-cause rather than treating visible symptoms only. • Invest in prevention and long-term solutions • Ensure transparency and clear communication ________________________________________________________________________ 7. Roles and Responsibilities The Council, its contractors and tenants are responsible for the implementation of this policy as set out below: Renfrewshire Council Communities and Housing Policy Board • Approve policy and oversee performance. Renfrewshire Council Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Service • Conduct appropriate investigations to identify the root cause(s) of damp and mould, using specialist surveyors where required. • Maintain clear, timely communication with tenants throughout the investigation and remediation of the damp and mould case. • Use technology such as humidity or environmental sensors to monitor moisture levels where appropriate and ensure appropriate ventilation is installed. • Train staff to identify damp and mould and understand effective remedies. • Provide guidance to tenants on how to prevent, manage and report damp and mould. • Ensure compliance, resourcing and performance monitoring and reporting. Contractors • Deliver works in line with this policy and required standards. Page 133 of 366
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6 PUBLIC Tenants • Report damp/ mould promptly to the Council using the contact details provided within this policy. • Provide access for inspections and works. • Engage with advice and support offered. • Work with the Council by following advice and guidance where appropriate. • Use ventilation systems properly and report faults quickly. • Allow sensors to be installed to monitor property conditions as appropriate • Follow professional guidance provided on ventilation and heating where appropriate. ________________________________________________________________________ 8. Responding to Reports of Damp and Mould When the Council receives a report of damp and/or mould in one of the houses it manages, it will: • Keep tenants informed at all stages. • Explain findings and actions clearly. • Provide a named contact for ongoing cases. • Ensure communication is accessible and inclusive. ________________________________________________________________________ 9. Timescales for responding to reports of Damp and Mould Emergency Safety Concerns Where a report indicates an immediate risk to health or safety, the Council will act in accordance with the Housing Repairs Policy and relevant emergency repair timescales. Investigation The Council or its appointed contractors will visit properties and investigate within 10 working days of being notified, beginning the day after the date it was made aware of the issue. Investigations will be undertaken by a competent person, and all findings will be documented and risk assessed. Written Summary The Council will provide a written summary of findings to the tenant within 3 working days of completion of investigation, beginning the day after the investigation is completed. This will include whether the repair is a qualifying repair (e.g. substantial damp or mould), the expected cause of damp/mould, any relevant safety work or repair required, including anticipated timescales for completion and the name, address and telephone number of the primary contractor and at least one other listed contractor from the list of contractors maintained by the landlord. Page 134 of 366
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7 PUBLIC Commencement and Completion of Works Following investigation, if substantial damp or mould is determined, any repair work required will commence within 5 working days, beginning the day after the investigation was completed. The Council is required to complete any qualifying repairs within a maximum of 20 working days from the date the repair is reported or identified during an inspection. Delays Where the Council is unable to meet these timescales for reasons beyond its control, the Council will advise the tenant in writing setting out the reasons for the delay and the expected timescale for compliance with the above timescales. Until it can comply with the above timescales, the Council will ensure that reasonable steps are taken where practicable to minimise the extent to which the house is affected by damp or mould. Suspension The statutory investigation and repair commencement timescales may be suspended where circumstances beyond the landlord's control prevent access, inspection, investigation or commencement of works. In such cases, tenants will be advised in writing of the reason for the suspension, the expected timescale for progressing the case, and any practicable interim measures to mitigate the effects of damp and mould. ________________________________________________________________________ 10. Tenant Rights and Compensation Tenants have rights under the Scottish Secure Tenants (Right to Repair) Regulations 2002 and associated legislation. Where the Council is required by legislation to investigate, commence or complete repairs within prescribed timescales, tenants may be entitled to compensation if these timescales are not met. The Council will: • Inform tenants of any statutory rights relating to repairs and compensation. • Comply with the Scottish Secure Tenants (Right to Repair) Regulations 2002 and any subsequent amendments. • Process any compensation payments due in accordance with legislative requirements and Council procedures. • Provide information on how tenants can request a review where they believe repair obligations have not been met. ________________________________________________________________________ Page 135 of 366
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8 PUBLIC 11. Investigation The Council will undertake a property investigation when an issue relating to damp and mould is reported. The investigation will involve a comprehensive assessment which may include the following: • Building fabric condition (walls, roof, windows) • Insulation levels • Ventilation systems (extractors, passive vents) • Heating provision • Moisture levels and humidity readings The investigation will attempt to identify root causes of damp and mould, not just symptoms. ________________________________________________________________________ 12. Remedial Actions The Council will take appropriate remedial action to address damp and mould issues identified within its housing stock. The type and extent of works undertaken will be determined by the nature, severity and underlying cause of the problem. Actions may include, but are not limited to the following: Monitoring and Assessment • Installation of environmental monitoring sensors, where appropriate. • Follow-up property inspections to assess conditions and review the effectiveness of remedial measures. • Ongoing monitoring of identified cases to ensure issues have been resolved. Short-Term Measures • Mould washing and specialist mould treatment. • Provision or installation of temporary ventilation equipment or dehumidifiers. • Provision of temporary heating solutions where required. • Completion of minor repairs to address immediate concerns and prevent further deterioration. Long-Term Solutions • Structural repairs, including works to roofs, external walls, pointing, damp-proof courses and other building elements. • Installation or improvement of insulation measures to reduce condensation risk. • Installation, repair or enhancement of ventilation systems. Page 136 of 366
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9 PUBLIC • Replacement of windows or other building components where these contribute to damp and mould issues. • Consideration of wider investment and improvement programmes where recurring or systemic issues are identified. • The Council will seek to remedy the underlying cause of damp and mould and will not rely solely on cleaning, decoration or mould washing where structural or environmental defects remain unresolved. 13. Tenant Support and Advice The Council recognises that effectively addressing damp and mould requires both property improvements and appropriate tenant support. The Council will: • Provide clear, accessible information and guidance on preventing and managing moisture, condensation and ventilation within the home. • Offer practical advice and support tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of tenants and household members. • Signpost tenants to relevant services, including energy advice, fuel poverty support, financial inclusion services and health and wellbeing resources. • Work collaboratively with tenants to identify and implement measures that help reduce the risk of damp and mould occurring or recurring. • Ensure advice and information are provided in a clear, sensitive and accessible manner, taking account of any vulnerabilities or support needs. ________________________________________________________________________ 14.Tenants Requiring Enhanced Support The Council recognises that some households may be disproportionately affected by damp and mould due to health conditions, age, disability or other circumstances. Tenants should inform the council if they consider themselves to be disproportionately affected by damp and mould. The Council will take a person-centred approach and prioritise cases where occupants may be at greater risk from the impacts of damp and mould. Prioritisation measures may include: • Accelerated response and inspection times. • More frequent monitoring and follow-up visits. • Enhanced communication and support throughout the investigation and remediation process. • Consideration of temporary decant or rehousing arrangements where this is necessary to protect the health, safety or wellbeing of occupants. • Coordination with relevant support services and partner agencies, where appropriate. Page 137 of 366
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10 PUBLIC This approach will be applied based on individual circumstances and assessed risk, ensuring that those most affected receive timely and appropriate support. ________________________________________________________________________ 15. Preventing Damp and Mould In addition to responding to reported damp and mould issues, the Council will take a proactive approach to identifying and preventing damp and mould within its housing stock. Stock Condition Surveys • The Council will undertake periodic stock condition surveys to identify signs of damp, mould, condensation, water ingress and any contributing factors. • Where issues are identified, findings will be recorded and appropriate follow-up action arranged. Follow-Up Visits • Follow-up visits may be carried out where damp and mould issues have been identified to monitor conditions and assess the effectiveness of remedial actions. • Staff undertaking these visits will be trained to recognise signs of damp, mould and potential underlying causes. Data Monitoring and Analysis • The Council will record and analyse damp and mould cases to identify trends, recurring issues and property types that may be more susceptible. • This information will be used to inform inspections, repairs, planned investment programmes and tenant guidance. Empty Homes and Re-Lets • Vacant properties will be inspected for damp, mould and any contributing defects before being re-let. • Any identified issues will be investigated and appropriate remedial works completed prior to the commencement of a new tenancy. Planned Investment • Damp and mould trends and risk information will be used to inform future capital investment programmes, including insulation, ventilation and energy efficiency improvements. ________________________________________________________________________ 16. Data Management The Council will maintain detailed records of all damp and mould cases and use this to monitor repeat reports and trends. Data will also be used to inform asset management and investment planning, and to identify properties at higher risk of damp and mould and act proactively to address damp and mould in these properties. Page 138 of 366
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11 PUBLIC Records will be maintained in accordance with data protection legislation and the Council's records management arrangements. ________________________________________________________________________ 17. Monitoring and Performance Management Performance against the three new Damp and Mould Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) introduced by the Scottish Housing Regulator will be reported through the Annual Return on the Scottish Social Housing Charter and included in the annual performance report presented to the Communities and Housing Policy Board each May. . The KPIs measure: • the average time taken to resolve damp and mould cases, • the percentage of resolved damp and mould cases that are subsequently reopened, and • the number of damp and mould cases that remain open at the year end. In addition, a range of damp and mould performance indicators will be developed and refined in line with the new Scottish Government guidance and legislative requirements due to come into effect from October 2026, ensuring that performance monitoring and reporting arrangements remain compliant with national standards and reflect emerging best practice. Performance is reported to the Communities and Housing Policy Board twice a year. ________________________________________________________________________ 18. Complaints and Escalation Tenants can raise complaints by visiting www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/complaints . The Council will: • Investigate promptly and fairly in line with target timescales • Provide clear responses • Use outcomes to improve service delivery ________________________________________________________________________ Page 139 of 366
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12 PUBLIC 19. Training, Competence and Contractor Management Staff Competence Relevant staff will receive training to ensure compliance with legislation and best practice on: • This policy and its implementation • Identification and diagnosis of damp and mould • Resident engagement and vulnerability awareness Contractor Competence Contractors will be assessed as part of the procurement, tender evaluation and contract renewal process, and whenever there is a change of contractor or contract arrangements. The Council will monitor contractor performance throughout the contract period to ensure required standards are maintained. ________________________________________________________________________ 20. Equality, Diversity and Human Rights We will deliver services that are: • Fair, inclusive, and accessible • Responsive to individual needs • Compliant with equality legislation An equalities impact assessment has been undertaken for this policy and is available on the Renfrewshire Council website: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk ________________________________________________________________________ 21. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed every 3 years, or sooner if: • Legislation or regulatory guidance changes • Learning from cases indicates changes are required • New best practice emerges ________________________________________________________________________ 22. Alternative formats This document can be made available in a range of languages and formats, including large print, Braille, audio and accessible format. Please contact us by phoning: 0300 300 0222 to discuss your needs. Page 140 of 366
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13 PUBLIC Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR Page 141 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 __________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Following enactment of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, there is now a legal requirement for social landlords to develop and implement a policy that sets out how they will support tenants at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse. 1.2 As noted in the Service Update report to this Board on 19 May 2026, the service has carried out a consultation on the draft policy. This consultation concluded on 3 July 2026, and the draft policy is now presented to board for approval. The Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse is attached at Appendix 1 of this report. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Approve the Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse (The Policy) sets out a comprehensive, trauma-informed approach to providing a coordinated response to the accommodation and support needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Item 7 Page 142 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.2 It recognises domestic abuse as a pervasive issue affecting individuals differently across gender, age, and background, and reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring victims and survivors can access safe, appropriate housing and support. 3.3 The policy has been developed collaboratively with specialist partners including; Renfrewshire Adult Protection Committee, Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership, MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference Team), the Equally Safe Partnership, Renfrewshire Women's Aid, Barnardo's, Police Scotland, the NHS, The Authentic Voice Panel, local and national housing association partners, and SaveLives; with a wide range of other partner organisations and groups consulted as part of the policy’s development. 3.4 Within the Council, relevant officers were consulted during the development of the policy, including officers from the Housing Service, Chief Executive’s Service, Social Work, Children’s Services, Community Safety and OneRen. 3.5 The policy is aligned with Scotland’s national strategy, Equally Safe, and recent legislative changes, including the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 and Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021. A full list of agencies is provided on the policy. 3.6 The policy adopts the Scottish Government’s definition of domestic abuse as a form of gender-based violence encompassing physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as coercive control. 3.7 It recognises the disproportionate impact on women and girls while ensuring inclusive support for men, LGBT+ people, and those with protected characteristics. The scope of the policy extends to all Housing Services interactions, including prevention, crisis response, rehousing, and multi- agency safeguarding 4. Strategic Context 4.1 Domestic abuse remains significantly underreported nationally with 117 incidents per 10,000 population recorded by the police in Scotland in 2024/25. The corresponding figure for Renfrewshire for the same period was 111 incidents per 10,000 population. 4.2 The policy aligns with key national frameworks - most notably Equally Safe, which seeks to eradicate violence against women and girls through prevention, early intervention, and tackling perpetrators. 4.3 New legislative powers coming into force in August 2026 will allow social landlords to seek court orders removing perpetrators or transferring tenancies to victims, strengthening the housing system’s ability to safeguard survivors Page 143 of 366
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PUBLIC 5. Aims and Objectives 5.1 The policy aims to deliver a proactive, coordinated and trauma-informed response to domestic abuse within Renfrewshire Council’s housing system. 5.2 Key objectives include improving early identification and intervention, enhancing access to safe housing pathways, strengthening collaborative working with specialist organisations, supporting staff through high-quality training, and contributing to the wider prevention of gender-based violence by promoting equality, respect, and awareness across the service 6. Housing Services Approach 6.1 Housing Services will provide confidential, sensitive and person-centred support that prioritises safety and preserves dignity for victims and survivors. This includes offering a broad range of housing options such as assisting victims and survivors to remain in their current home with safety measures in place were this is their preference; if appropriate supporting victims and survivors to transfer the tenancy to their name; using the housing allocation policy to achieve an appropriate move avoiding homelessness; the provision of temporary or supported accommodation; or through referrals to specialist housing providers. 6.2 Staff will be trained to recognise risk, respond appropriately and work in partnership with Women’s Aid, Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference, Police Scotland, Social Work and other agencies to ensure a coordinated approach. 7. Homelessness Prevention and Support 7.1 The policy acknowledges that domestic abuse is a significant cause of homelessness and commits to preventing homelessness wherever possible through early advice, safety planning and alternative housing options. 7.2 Where homelessness cannot be prevented, victims will be offered safe, appropriate temporary accommodation and a full housing options interview to maximise housing priority to achieve an appropriate housing offer that meets individual needs. The Housing Service will also ensure that domestic abuse is considered when assessing rent arrears or tenancy issues. 8. Equalities, Human Rights and Accessibility 8.1 Renfrewshire Council adopts a human-rights-based approach, recognising domestic abuse as a violation of fundamental rights, including the right to safety, dignity and a private family life. The Equality Impact Assessment carried out, highlights the importance of meeting the needs of victims with protected characteristics, and specific attention is given to those facing additional barriers, such as people with disabilities, minority ethnic communities or those with no recourse to public funds. Page 144 of 366
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PUBLIC Information will be made available in multiple formats to ensure accessibility. 9. Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement 9.1 The policy will undergo formal review every three years in collaboration with the Housing Domestic Abuse Working Group, survivors with lived experience and the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Partnership. 9.2 An annual performance measure will track the volume and nature of domestic abuse-related support requests, enabling continuous learning. The Council commits to ongoing improvement, embedding trauma-informed practice and ensuring staff maintain the skills needed to deliver safe, effective and compassionate services. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None 2. HR & Organisational Development – None 3. Community/Council Planning Building strong, safe, and resilient communities – Improving and maintaining neighbourhoods and homes. Working together to improve outcomes – Increasing resident satisfaction with neighbourhoods and communities. 4. Legal – None 5. Property/Assets – None 6. Information Technology – None 7. Equality & Human Rights – A comprehensive Equalities and Human Rights Impact Assessment was carried out in developing this policy. The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. The Impact Assessment is robust, fully evidenced and sourced. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None Page 145 of 366
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PUBLIC 9. Procurement – None 10. Risks – None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Risk – None 13. Children’s Rights – There is frequent reference to children within the policy with the key aim to protect, support and help them rebuild their lives and promote positive outcomes 14. COSLA Policy Position – N/A ___________________________________________________________________ Background Papers The foregoing background papers will be retained within Housing Services for inspection by the public for the prescribed period of four years from the date of the meeting. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Paul McLean, Housing Lead Officer (Performance, Policy & Participation) E Mail: paul.mclean@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 146 of 366
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PUBLIC Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Services Effective Date: August 2026 Review Date: August 2029 August 2026 Page 147 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 1 PUBLIC Contents 1 1. Introduction 2 2. Definition of Domestic Abuse 4 3. Aims and Objectives 5 4. Outcomes 6 5. Scope of this Housing Policy 7 6. National Context 8 7. Local Context 12 8. Local and National Support, Help & Advice 14 9. Equalities, Human Rights and Impact 15 10. Policy Statement 17 10.1 Our Approach 17 10.2 Housing Options 20 10.3 Prevention and Early Housing Advice 20 10.4 Partnership working 21 10.5 Risk Assessment 22 10.6 Safety Planning 22 10.7 Action against Perpetrators 22 10.8 Homelessness 24 10.9 Training 25 10.10 Core Business 26 10.11 Review and Evaluation 26 10.12 Alternative formats 27 Page 148 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 2 PUBLIC 1. Introduction This housing policy was developed in collaboration with partners, external organisations and other groups who support victims and survivors with lived experience of domestic abuse. The aim of the policy is to ensure that the Housing Service is proactive in its response to providing effective support to victims and survivors of all forms of domestic abuse with a view to preventing and eradicating all forms of domestic abuse. The policy sets out the Housing Service’s approach to providing a coordinated response to the accommodation and support needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. The policy has been informed by the recommendations set out in the ‘Change, Justice and Fairness’ research (2015) and the collaborative work undertaken by the Scottish Government, COSLA and key partners in the public, private and third sectors when refreshing the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy (2018) in 2023 alongside the development of the Equally Safe Delivery Plan Summer 2024 to Spring 2026. The Equally Safe Delivery Plan outlines the tangible actions all public sector and third sector organisations working to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG) at a local level will take to realise the ambitions of the Equally Safe Strategy and to drive progress by implementing actions individually and collectively in a cross-cutting and inclusive way. The policy takes account of The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 which builds upon previous legislation by introducing additional measures aimed at protecting individuals experiencing domestic abuse, particularly where they live with their abuser. Certain provisions of the 2021 Act were subject to secondary legislation prior to their implementation; this included the power for social landlords to apply for a Court Order (Order for Termination) to terminate an abusers’ interest in a tenancy. This power, available to social landlords from the 1st August 2026, will assist social landlords in facilitating the transfer of a tenancy from a perpetrator of domestic abuse to the victim or survivor were a Sheriff grant the requested Court Order. The policy also takes account of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 and the amendments contained within the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, including Part 5 of the Act which relates to homelessness prevention and the duties of relevant bodies and social landlords in relation to domestic abuse. Page 149 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 3 PUBLIC These duties include the requirement for social landlords to develop and implement a policy that sets out how they will support tenants who are at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse; and also where rent arrears may be linked to domestic abuse, social landlords must take this into account and comply with enhanced pre-action requirements, including taking reasonable steps in line with their domestic abuse policy, before progressing eviction action. The policy is aligned with Scotland’s six public health priorities and takes cognisance of the links to violence against women, drawing on the recommendations set out. The policy is also closely aligned to Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 and to the Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP), which sets out the Council’s and wider partners’ approach to effectively addressing homelessness in Renfrewshire. The policy aligns with Renfrewshire Council’s vision of ‘Working together to make Renfrewshire a fairer, more inclusive place where all our people, communities and businesses thrive’. The policy should be read in conjunction with Renfrewshire Council’s Allocation Policy which aims to maximise the housing priority of victims and survivors of domestic abuse to achieve an appropriate housing offer that meets individual needs. Renfrewshire Council recognises the key role the Council’s Housing Service and the wider housing sector play in tackling domestic abuse with housing playing a key role in the public protection agenda. Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Service is a key partner of Renfrewshire Women’s Aid, GALOP (LGBT plus domestic violence helpline), Kairos Women Plus (community led women’s organisation), Jubilee House (specific domestic violence project - charity) and SAY Women (women under 26 who are victims of sexual violence) with the partnership response to domestic abuse in Renfrewshire framed within the context set out in the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy. Page 150 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 4 PUBLIC 2. Definition of Domestic Abuse Domestic abuse can occur in any relationship and may affect individuals of any gender, age, sexuality or background. While anyone can be affected by domestic abuse, national evidence makes it clear that domestic abuse affects different groups in different ways and to different extents. The Housing Service understands domestic abuse to be gender based, predominately violence and abuse against women and girls (VAWG) with this Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse based on the Scottish Government’s definition of domestic abuse as a form of Gender Based Violence (GBV) with women and girls significantly disproportionately the victims of Gender Based Violence. In line with this nationally agreed definition, this policy defines domestic abuse as physical, sexual and psychological violence occurring in the family (including children and young people), within the general community or in institutions, including any form of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading or violent behaviour including physical, emotional, sexual, economic and financial abuse; domestic abuse, rape, and incest; sexual harassment, bullying and intimidation, commercial sexual exploitation, child sexual abuse, including familial sexual abuse, and all forms of ‘honour based’ violence, including dowry related violence, female genital mutilation, forced and child marriages, and ‘honour’ crimes. Page 151 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 5 PUBLIC 3. Aims and Objectives This housing policy aims to ensure that the Housing Service is proactive in its response to providing an effective response to victims and survivors of all forms of domestic abuse with a view to preventing all forms of domestic abuse. This policy’s primary aims include: Working collaboratively with key partners and wider stakeholders to identify ways in which we can take earlier, effective intervention and improve our services and responses to tackling domestic abuse; Working with partners to learn from the lived experiences of victims and survivors of domestic abuse to ensure their voices are heard and contribute to the shaping of our housing policies and services; Providing a policy framework that sets out clear messaging promoting equality and respect, rejecting all forms of domestic abuse; Developing an improved understanding of domestic abuse amongst housing staff to ensure staff can provide effective, high quality housing support, advice and information; Supporting wellbeing amongst our housing workforce to ensure a supportive and trauma responsive environment to effectively address domestic abuse across all sectors of society; Assisting in signposting victims and survivors of domestic abuse to an effective and trauma informed service who are experienced in domestic abuse; Preventing and reducing the effects of adverse childhood experiences and providing safe and nurturing accommodation and support that can help children and families thrive; Working with our Housing Association partners and the wider housing sector to share learning and promote best practice in relation to tackling domestic abuse; and Challenging gendered stereotypes across all aspects of our service delivery. Page 152 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 6 PUBLIC 4. Outcomes This policy aims to achieve the following objectives to support meeting the policy’s overarching aim of ensuring that the Housing Service is proactive in its response to providing an effective response to victims and survivors of all forms of domestic abuse with a view to preventing all forms of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is prevented where possible, but where it does occur, a coordinated, effective response is provided which enables victims and survivorsto access a range of appropriate housing options, advice, information and support. Our communities, workplaces and wider society embrace equality and mutual respect and reject all forms of domestic abuse. Inequalities are reduced and opportunities through partnership working are created which promote improved life chances for women, children, young people, families at risk, and other vulnerable people/groups of people affected by domestic abuse, therefore reducing the inequalities experienced by victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Our workplace training will ensure all staff embrace equality and mutual respect and reject all forms of domestic abuse. Page 153 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 7 PUBLIC 5. Scope of this Housing Policy This policy sets out Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Service’s approach to providing a coordinated response to the accommodation and support needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. The policy recognises that domestic abuse is a gendered crime with women predominantly the victims and men predominantly the perpetrators of this crime.1 This violent and abusive behaviour is predominantly carried out by men and directed at women and girls because of their sex with this behaviour stemming from systemic, deep-rooted women’s inequality. This includes domestic abuse, rape, sexual assault, commercial sexual exploitation (like prostitution), female genital mutilation, forced marriage and ‘honour based’ violence where people may be abused and victimised for bringing a perception of shame or scrutiny upon their family. This abuse can take many forms, from verbal abuse and coercive control to extreme acts such as kidnapping or murder. Renfrewshire Council recognises that domestic abuse can also affect men, transgender people and people who are gender fluid with this policy to be applied to meet individual needs and requirements. 1 Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25, Table 5 Page 154 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 8 PUBLIC 6. National Context Incidents of violence and domestic abuse often go unreported to the police and other services with this crime often concealed. This can result in official statistics only partially capturing the extent and prevalence of domestic abuse, making it difficult to accurately estimate the full scale and impact of domestic abuse locally and nationally across different groups. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic also created additional challenges and complexities for people experiencing domestic abuse, highlighting that domestic abuse remains a serious and significant issue in Scotland. Domestic abuse in Scotland (Latest available statistical data) Source: Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25 Source: Most recent data for DASA figures is for 2023/24 - Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2023/24 Source: Scottish Government, Homelessness in Scotland: 2023/24* and 2024/25^ Reports, Tables T5* & T6^ In 2024/25, there were 117 recorded incidents of domestic abuse per 10,000 of Scotland's population across all genders. In 2024/25, there were 111 recorded incidents of domestic abuse per 10,000 of Renfrewshire's population across all genders. In 2024/25, nationally the ratio of female victims recorded per 10,000 population was 149, for male victims it was 33 per 10,000. In 2024/25, female victims aged 31 to 35 years of age experienced the highest incidence rate of domestic abuse with 407 incidents recorded per 10,000 population nationally. Noting that domestic abuse tends to be underreported as a crime, data from Police Scotland and the Scottish Government shows: In 2024/25, 81% of recorded crimes involved a female victim and a suspected male perpetrator. In 2023/24, under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, 92% of recorded crimes involved a female victim and a suspected male perpetrator. In 2023/24, 63% of recorded crimes under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 were committed by an ex-partner, ex- spouse or ex-civil partner. Violent or abusive disputes within the household was the main reason given by 12% of all homeless applicants nationally in 2024/25^ (2023/24: 13%)* Page 155 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 9 PUBLIC The Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy (2018), refreshed in 2023, is Scotland's strategy to eradicate violence against women, making it unequivocally clear that violence against women and girls (VAWG), in any form, has no place in the Scottish Government’s vision for a safe, strong and successful Scotland. The Scottish Government, COSLA and key partners recognise that violence against women damages health and wellbeing, limits freedom, potential and is a violation of the most fundamental human rights. The main aim of the Equally Safe Strategy is to work collaboratively with key partners across sectors to prevent and eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG). The Equally Safe Strategy is reinforced by the Equally Safe Delivery Plan to ensure that ambitions are rooted in practical delivery, setting out the following key priorities: A strong and flourishing Scotland where all individuals are equally safe and respected, and where women and girls live free from all forms of violence and abuse - and the attitudes that help perpetuate it. The Equally Safe Strategy sets out a vision for: Tackling perpetrators. Intervening early and effectively to prevent violence and maximising the safety and wellbeing of women, children and young people; Achieving greater gender equality; Page 156 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 10 PUBLIC This housing policy is aligned with the Equally Safe Strategy vision, aims and priorities and also makes a key contribution to national outcomes, including, but not limited to: The Change, Justice and Fairness Report provides important insights into the experiences of women who have been subject to domestic and sexual abuse and faced the risk of homelessness with these insights used to inform this policy. The Change, Justice and Fairness Report highlights several recommendations relevant to wider housing services in terms of strategic and operational delivery of services aimed at preventing homelessness for women and children experiencing domestic or sexual abuse at the earliest opportunity. This housing policy takes account of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 and the amendments contained within the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. We live our lives free from crime, disorder and danger; We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society; We have strong resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others; Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed; We have improved the life chances for young people and families at risk. Page 157 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 11 PUBLIC Part 5 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 which received Royal Assent in November 2025 relates to Homelessness prevention and the duties of relevant bodies, including social landlords. This includes new requirements for social landlords relating to domestic abuse: Source: Part 5 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 Where rent arrears may be linked to domestic abuse, social landlords must take this into account and comply with enhanced pre-action requirements, including taking reasonable steps in line with their domestic abuse policy, before progressing eviction action. Social landlords are required to develop and implement a policy that sets out how they will support tenants who are at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse; and Page 158 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 12 PUBLIC 7. Local Context As previously noted, incidents of domestic abuse often go unreported to the police and other services with official statistics likely to only partially capture the extent and prevalence of domestic abuse across different groups. Data from Police Scotland for 2024/25 identified 117 recorded incidents of domestic abuse per 10,000 population in Scotland. Over the same period, Renfrewshire recorded 111 domestic abuse crimes per 10,000 population across all genders.2 Police Scotland data also notes the number of domestic abuse incidents in Renfrewshire across all genders was 2,096 in 2024/25 (an increase on the 2023/24 figure of 2,088 incidents). 3 The majority of official statistical data is published at a national level (Scotland or the United Kingdom) which makes it difficult to derive specific data at a Renfrewshire local authority area level. The Housing Service in Renfrewshire is a key partner of Renfrewshire Women’s Aid, GALOP (LGBT+ domestic violence helpline), Kairos Women Plus (community led women’s organisation), Jubilee House (specific domestic violence project - charity) SAY Women (women under 26 who are victims of sexual violence). These groups and organisations provide vital support, information, advice and accommodation for women at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse. The partnership response to domestic abuse in Renfrewshire is framed within the context set out in the national Equally Safe Strategy in recognition of the deep-rooted structural gender inequalities that underpin domestic abuse and other forms of gender based violence, whilst also acknowledging the wider harms caused by domestic abuse in families and communities, recognising that whilst anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, women and girls are disproportionately more affected. Renfrewshire Council recognises the central role that Housing Services and the wider housing sector play in people lives and has publicly demonstrated this through the commitment to take action to tackle domestic abuse by signing the ‘Make a Stand’ pledge developed by the Chartered Institute of Housing, Women’s Aid and the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance. 2 Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25 3 Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25 Page 159 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 13 PUBLIC The ‘Make a Stand’ pledge requires Renfrewshire Council alongside around 400 other housing organisations nationally to: In addition to the strategic and operational Violence Against Women (VAW) groups, housing plays a key role in the public protection agenda, with participation in Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) and also through working with others to help in the process of identifying and tackling serial perpetrators of domestic abuse. Renfrewshire Council provides a range of online information to assist victims and survivors of domestic abuse; and to raise awareness amongst staff, communities and other organisations in terms of the types and forms of abuse and the help and assistance available to tackle and prevent domestic abuse in Renfrewshire. This also includes financial advice and support for people affected by domestic abuse with advice available from Woman and Children First, Advice Works and the Council’s benefits team in terms of Employment and Support Allowance; Jobseekers Allowance; Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowance; Tax Credits and the Jobcentre Social Fund. Put in place and embed a policy to support residents who are affected by domestic abuse; Make information about national and local domestic abuse support services available online and in other appropriate places so that they are easily accessible for residents and staff; Put in place an HR policy, or amend an existing policy, to support members of staff who may be experiencing domestic abuse; and Appoint a champion at a senior level in the organisation to own the activity you are doing to support people experiencing domestic abuse. Page 160 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 14 PUBLIC 8. Local and National Support, Help and Advice Renfrewshire Council Website Information and Advice Women and Children First woman.sw@renfrewshire.go v.uk 0300 300 0345 Renfrewshire Women’s Aid www.renfrewshirewomensai d.co.uk 0141 561 7030 Refuge Domestic abuse organisation for women www.refuge.org.uk 0808 2000 247 Galop LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428 Jubilee House www.jubileehousescotland.c om 07538 117 031 Kairos Women+ www.kairoswomen.org 0141 3785078 SAY Women www.say-women.co.uk 0141 552 5803 Scotland's 24-hour Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline 0800 027 1234 Rape Crisis Scotland www.rapecrisisscotland.org. uk 08088 01 03 02 Safe Lives UK wide charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse Men's Advice Line 0808 801 0327 Renfrewshire Council Housing Advice & Homeless Services 0300 300 1203 Renfrewshire Advice Works adviceworks@renfrewshire. gov.uk 0300 300 1238 Police Scotland 999 for emergencies and 101 for non-emergencies Citizens Advice 0141 889 2121 Shelter 0808 800 4444 Page 161 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 15 PUBLIC 9. Equalities, Human Rights and Impact Renfrewshire Council and the Housing Service apply a human rights approach to domestic abuse. The Council recognises that domestic abuse violates human rights because it denies victims their rights, this includes the right not to be treated in an inhuman and degrading way; the right to respect for private and family life and the right to life. Renfrewshire Council listens to the experiences of victims and survivors of domestic abuse and will protect victim’s and survivor’s right to a home life, including the peaceful and safe occupation of their home. Housing Services will work with communities and partner organisations to ensure services remain accessible, inclusive and responsive to people from diverse backgrounds, recognising that experiences of domestic abuse may be shaped by culture, language, faith, disability, sexuality and other factors. The Equality Act 2010 places statutory duties on the Council to ensure its functions and related services offer fair access and inclusion through: An Equalities Impact Assessment (EQIA) was undertaken whilst this policy was being developed to identify any potential adverse impacts on people or groups with or who share a protected characteristic; and any opportunities in which to strengthen and promote equalities. This assessment included an assessment of the Fairer Scotland Duty and Human Rights. The fostering of good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. The advancement of equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not; and The elimination of unlawful discrimination, harassment or victimisation; Page 162 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 16 PUBLIC This housing policy should positively impact all protected characteristics by supporting the tackling and prevention of all forms of domestic abuse in Renfrewshire in line with Scottish Government and United Kingdom Government policy. Page 163 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 17 PUBLIC 10. Policy Statement 10.1 Our Approach Our approach is based on the ‘Progressing Equality Outcomes and Mainstreaming Equality Progress Report 2019.’ The 4 ‘P’s’ approach Housing Services are at the forefront of delivering services to victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse. Housing Services will offer a confidential, sensitive and priority service to anyone experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse and who may be seeking support, advice, information, temporary accommodation or re-housing. This may include assistance with sustaining current accommodation, where this is possible and the preference of victims and survivors, preventing the need to present as homeless. This may avoid any potential distress and trauma associated with moving into temporary accommodation or moving to an unfamiliar area away from existing support networks. Housing Services also acknowledge that for some victims and survivors, the trauma experienced in their accommodation may mean that it is no longer an option for them to remain there. In these circumstances Housing Services will find alternative suitable accommodation. Prevention–to prevent, remove or diminish the risk of violence against all groups and its impacts on children and young people; Protection– to protect victims and survivors from victimisation, repeat victimisation or harassment by perpetrators and protect the children and young people affected; Provision– to provide adequate services to deal with the consequences of violence against all victims, survivors and children to help them rebuild their lives; and Participation– to ensure policy making and practice development around domestic violence is shaped by the experience, needs and views of those who use services. Page 164 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 18 PUBLIC Housing Services recognise that children and young people who experience domestic abuse may be affected both immediately and throughout later life. In line with trauma-informed practice and GIRFEC principles, consideration will be given to the needs of children and young people as part of housing assessments, support planning and partnership working. Housing Services also recognise that victims and survivors of domestic abuse who approach the Housing Service asking for help may also have other issues such as a disability, addiction issue or be financially dependent on their abuser. Housing Services will also work with mental health or addictions services were appropriate to ensure appropriate referral pathways are in place to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Housing Services will facilitate swift and good access to services when they are needed and will work with services on behalf of victims and survivors where this is the preference of victims and survivors. Housing Services will work in partnership with specialist services, including Women’s Aid, Citizens Advice (home owners) and Shelter. Recognising the impact of economic and financial abuse, Housing Services will seek to support access to welfare rights advice, money advice, income maximisation services and other sources of financial support to promote long-term housing stability and independence. Housing Services will ensure that we treat victims and survivors with empathy and provide a trauma informed service to explore a range of housing options and support to identify the best housing and/or support outcome. Housing Services also recognise that some victims and survivors may experience additional specific barriers, including those with ‘no recourse to public funds’ (NRPF) due to their immigration status. This can be a major barrier to escaping abuse as victims may be afraid to approach services for support or advice due to fear of being deported. To support victims who experience these complex and challenging situations, Housing Services and Social Work will work with partners, including national organisations who have expertise in advising and supporting victims with ‘no recourse to public funds’ (NRPF). The nature and intersectionality of domestic abuse will be at the forefront of our approach to tackling structural inequalities. Housing Services will ensure our housing response takes full cognisance of the inter-connectedness and impact of disability, ethnicity, sexuality, poverty and other factors in relation to domestic abuse and the ways in which individual or multiple factors can combine and interact in ways to exacerbate inequality. Page 165 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 19 PUBLIC The principles that underpin the Housing Service’s approach to victims and survivors experiencing abuse include: Their views will be heard and fully understood; They will have their housing needs assessed; They will have access and support to maintain affordable housing or appropriate accommodation; and They can be assured that any information provided will be dealt with in the strictest confidence. To achieve this, we will ensure that victims and survivors experiencing domestic abuse receive: A consistent high-quality service; A thorough assessment of their accommodation and support needs; Access to appropriate accommodation; Access to housing support; Access to specialist support services; Access to legal information on the protection available to them; Signposting to all other relevant agencies; Page 166 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 20 PUBLIC 10.2 Housing Options Housing Services aim is to provide the highest quality housing options advice and information to help identify a range of appropriate housing options to best meet the individual needs of victims and survivors at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse. Housing Services will work with victims and survivors of domestic abuse to explore these options, linking with other services and organisations as appropriate, to ensure that housing and support needs are fully considered and that a plan is jointly agreed on how to progress and meet these needs. Housing options include, but are not limited to: Supporting victims and survivors to remain in their home (where this is their preference); Removing the perpetrator (where possible); Rehousing the perpetrator; Supporting victims and survivors to transfer the tenancy to their name; Supporting victims and survivors to gain legal advice and information; Utilising the Housing Allocation Policy to assess the housing needs of applicants experiencing domestic abuse to achieve a move through the general or transfer waiting list and avoid homelessness; Referral to another local authority or specialist service that can assist with rehousing in another local authority area; Provision of temporary and/or supported accommodation; and Enabling access to specialist domestic abuse support and/or accommodation. Housing Services will always aim to ensure that victims and survivors of domestic abuse are able to choose the gender of staff when accessing support and advice. 10.3 Prevention and Early Housing Advice Housing Services will always aim to provide good housing advice at an early stage, providing access to a range of information and housing options so that an informed decision can be made on how best to meet the needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Housing Services recognise that victims at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse often feel the need to leave their current accommodation and that this may not always help them to be or feel safe in the longer term which can create further trauma and hardship; for example, through moving into temporary accommodation and then permanent housing and the associated costs and upheaval associated with homelessness. Page 167 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 21 PUBLIC Where a person affected by domestic abuse wishes to remain in their own home, Housing Services will support them to do so, wherever possible. This may involve an assessment of home safety and support needs. Housing Services also recognise that for some victims and survivors this may not be an option and will work with victims and survivors to find suitable alternative accommodation that meets their needs where this is required. Housing Services will continue to work closely with relevant public bodies and community planning partners to support the early identification of housing need and risks associated with domestic abuse. This includes collaborative working with health and social care services to ensure opportunities for early intervention and support are maximised. Staff will be supported through training and guidance to recognise potential indicators of domestic abuse, including coercive control, financial difficulties linked to economic abuse, repeated requests for security measures, social isolation, anxiety or fearfulness, and concerns regarding children and family wellbeing. 10.4 Partnership working Housing Services are committed to working with a range of partners and other Council services to achieve the best possible outcomes for people affected by domestic abuse. This includes the key role housing has in the public protection agenda and participation in Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) which support the highest risk domestic abuse victims. This joint working between the Housing Service and MARAC also assists in the evidence gathering process, helping to facilitate the most appropriate support and action for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Housing Services also work with partners on a regular basis for other domestic abuse victims and survivors who are not subject to MARAC conferencing arrangements, to improve safety and reduce the impact of domestic abuse and to prevent it from occurring or reoccurring. Housing Services will maintain clear referral pathways with specialist domestic abuse services and relevant partner agencies to support timely access to advice, advocacy, health, social care and other support services where required. Housing Services will also continue to work collaboratively with health and social care partners to support early identification of domestic abuse, improve referral pathways and promote positive outcomes for individuals, children and families affected by domestic abuse. Page 168 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 22 PUBLIC Partnership working also takes place at a strategic and operational policy level to ensure a consistent approach across services and partners within Renfrewshire and to improve our response to prevent and tackle domestic abuse efficiently and effectively. 10.5 Risk Assessment Risk assessment is vital in supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. It can help prevent domestic abuse from occurring and can ultimately save lives. Housing Services will work with partners, including MARAC, Police Scotland, Social Work, Women’s Aid and the Community Safety Team to identify risk and will work together to understand risks, such as escalation; fear; isolation; and child contact amongst others with this partnership collaboration key to enabling effective safety planning. Risk assessments and safety planning will also consider the potential use of technology as a means of coercion, monitoring or control and will incorporate appropriate safety measures where required. Housing Services staff will also identify and refer as appropriate, using the Adult and Child Protection Policies and Procedures in place with staff trained and skilled in understanding safeguarding policies and procedures. 10.6 Safety Planning Safety Planning is a vital tool when working with victims and survivors of domestic abuse. It is of particular importance when the victim resides with the perpetrator; when they consider leaving; and after they have left. Risk increases at the point when a victim is leaving, it is vitally important that risk is regularly reviewed as the situation changes. Safety planning is an important component of the support provided by Housing Services and the partnership working undertaken to support and protect victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse. 10.7 Action against Perpetrators The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 Evidence supports that domestic abuse is one of the main causes of homelessness amongst women both in Renfrewshire and nationally. Page 169 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 23 PUBLIC The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 builds upon previous legislation by introducing additional measures to help protect individuals experiencing domestic abuse, particularly when they live with their abuser. The 2021 Act provides Police Scotland and the Courts with tools including Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) to assist in safeguarding victims and survivors. These measures are intended to remove abusers from the home for a period of up to 3 months and prohibit contact with the victim, even in the absence of criminal proceedings. These measures aim to support individuals at risk of domestic abuse and potentially provide breathing space for victims of domestic abuse to consider their longer-term options in relation to their safety and housing needs. Part 2, Section 22 of The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 Part 2, Section 22 of The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 amends the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 to empower social landlords (from the 1st August 2026) to apply to the Sheriff Court for an Order of Termination to end a sole perpetrator’s tenancy or to remove their joint interest in a tenancy as set out under Ground 15A which makes abusive behaviour towards a partner or ex-partner a specific ground for eviction or tenancy transfer. This change will support social landlords to end the tenancy of an abuser and/or transfer the tenancy to the victim or survivor, provided the victim or survivor wish to remain in the home as a sole tenant. Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs): Longer-term protective orders issued by the Courts, which can include prohibitions on contacting the victim, entering the home, or other actions that would constitute abuse. Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs): Short-term immediate emergency measure issued by senior police officers to provide immediate protection when there are reasonable grounds to believe abuse has occurred. Page 170 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 24 PUBLIC In June 2026, the Scottish Government published Statutory Guidance for social landlords on the use of these powers to ensure best practice across social housing providers. This Statutory Guidance for social landlords must be used when bringing a case to the Sheriff Court. A criminal conviction is not strictly necessary; behaviour falling short of criminality may be deemed sufficient to warrant tenancy termination, provided the social landlord can prove the abusive behaviour to the Court. The Court will consider whether all of the conditions set out in Ground 15A have been met when deciding whether to grant the Order. Social landlords are encouraged to work in close partnership with other agencies, including domestic abuse specialist services and victims and survivors themselves to determine the best immediate and long-term housing options that will provide safety, security and tenancy sustainability for victims and survivors and their household. The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 prioritises the safety and well-being of individuals experiencing domestic abuse and aims to reduce the risk of homelessness as a consequence of leaving an abusive situation, marking a critical shift in preventing homelessness by removing and barring the perpetrator from the home and providing social landlords with greater control to transfer tenancies to a victim or survivor, upholding victims and survivors rights to remain in their home. The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 is a welcome development and will help improve housing outcomes for victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse as previous legislation did not safeguard housing rights. 10.8 Homelessness In 2024/25, ‘Violent or abusive’ disputes within the household was the main reason given by 12% of all homeless applicants nationally according to statistical data from the Scottish Government’s ‘Homelessness in Scotland: 2024-25’ Report. 4 Housing Services will always endeavour to avoid homelessness wherever possible, providing a full housing options interview and prevention interventions, whilst seeking to maximise the housing priority for victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse in order to achieve an appropriate housing offer that meets individual needs. However, Housing Services also recognise that there are some circumstances in which homelessness cannot be prevented, and this policy aims to reduce the impact that homelessness may have on victims and survivors experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse. 4 Scottish Government, Homelessness in Scotland: 2023/24 and 2024/25 Reports, Tables T5 & T6 Page 171 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 25 PUBLIC Housing Services have clear processes in place to ensure: The provision of safe, secure and comfortable temporary accommodation if required and access to permanent, settled accommodation as quickly as possible to minimise the time spent in temporary accommodation; That we listen to victims and survivors about where they want to live to ensure that, as far as possible, any offer of accommodation (temporary or permanent) meets their needs in terms of safety; support networks including family and childcare; schooling arrangements; employment and educational needs; and access to other necessary amenities or facilities to meet their needs; and The provision of support, information and advice on a range of housing options, including working with other local authorities where required, to ensure the best housing, safety and wellbeing outcomes. 10.9 Training Housing Services are committed to ensuring that all housing staff understand and are able to respond to domestic abuse. As a minimum, all housing staff will be provided with Domestic Abuse Awareness Raising Training (DAART) with frontline housing staff and managers undertaking enhanced training. This will ensure that staff: Training also takes place in relation to risk assessment and safety planning in the form of ‘Save Lives DASH Risk Assessment Training’. Underpinning the range of domestic abuse training, there is also a range of trauma-informed practice training. The Housing Service are committed to ensuring that housing staff complete and understand trauma informed training, with enhanced training for housing staff in support roles or with greater contact with the public. Housing Services will continue to roll out further training and learning opportunities on trauma within the housing service to embed trauma responsive practices across all aspects of our business and to develop a trauma-informed workforce. Understand domestic abuse and other forms of violence; Can identify people at risk and understand the behaviour of perpetrators; and Can respond in a trauma responsive way. Page 172 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 26 PUBLIC As part of the development of this policy, Housing Services are actively working with key partners and organisations to develop face to face training that is tailored to promote a detailed understanding of the needs and requirements of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. This training will support delivery of a service that is empathetic and understanding to ensure that victims and survivors needs are understood and met by the Housing Service. 10.10 Core Business Housing Services will ensure that no matter the service area, tackling domestic abuse is everyone’s responsibility and that there is a good awareness and understanding of domestic abuse across every area of our service and its impacts. This includes, for example, dealing with antisocial behaviour so that there is no confusion between domestic abuse and anti-social behaviour; managing rent arrears so that domestic abuse is considered in the context of the impact on financial circumstances and wider tenancy and housing management areas. Housing Services will continue to build on developing a greater understanding amongst our wider housing workforce to reduce any service generated risks and to encourage housing staff to understand how domestic abuse relates to all other areas of people’s lives in complex ways. 10.11 Review and Evaluation This policy will be subject to regular review to ensure effective implementation; continued relevance; and to support best practice in supporting victims and survivors, particularly women and children, affected by domestic abuse. The policy will be reviewed every three years with each review coordinated by the Housing Domestic Abuse Working Group in partnership with organisations that support women with lived and living experience of domestic abuse and the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Partnership. An annual indicator will be added to the Housing Services performance management framework to record the number of requests for advice and support. Housing Services will seek to monitor both levels of demand and outcomes achieved, including homelessness prevention activity, referral to specialist support and tenancy sustainment, to support continuous improvement and learning. Page 173 of 366
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 27 PUBLIC 10.12 Alternative formats This document can be made available in a range of languages and formats, including large print, braille, audio, electronic and accessible formats. Page 174 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Housing Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2026/27 Award of Funding ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Renfrewshire Council has been awarded £2,061,38 for qualifying projects under the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficient Scotland Area Based Schemes (EES: Abs) programme for 2026/27. 1.2 The report updates members on the funding process that has secured this investment and the projects which will be supported. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Homologate the decision of the Head of Housing Services, in consultation with the Convenor, to accept the grant funding of £2,061,138 from Scottish Government’s Energy Efficiency Scotland Area Based Schemes (EES:Abs) programme, for qualifying projects within the Renfrewshire Council area for 2026/27. 2.2 Authorise the Head of Housing Services to oversee the delivery and operational management of the programme and notes an update on the outcomes delivered from the programme will be provided to a future meeting of the Policy Board. Item 8 Page 175 of 366
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PUBLIC 3. Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Schemes (EES:Abs) 2026/27 3.1 The Scottish Government’s EES:Abs programme was formerly known as the Home Energy Efficiency Programme Scotland: Area Based Schemes (HEEPS: ABS) which was introduced in 2013/14. The programme is targeted at private sector homeowners to assist their participation and ensure projects to improve energy efficiency can proceed. The key objectives are to address fuel poverty, reduce carbon emissions and demonstrate an appropriate strategic fit and approach to improving energy efficiency. 3.2 The potential benefits of EES:Abs support a wide range of social housing initiatives including maintaining stock at the levels required by the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) as well as the requirements of the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH) and the proposed Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS), and local authorities act as coordinating agents for all EES:Abs programmes for their area. 3.3 The Council has been allocated funding of £2,061,138 for 2026/27 for qualifying projects as set out below: 3.4 As in previous years, the Council has secured the services of a Managing Agent with the intention of offering support to private homeowners in areas where the Council has previously carried out investment programmes, but where houses and/or blocks were not included in our programme due to them being wholly privately owned. This project will provide the largest spend of the grant funding this and the costs of the Managing Agent role will be met in full by the EES:Abs funding. 3.5 Another project will target one remaining mixed tenure block in the Auchentorlie regeneration area and all of the owners within the mixed tenure blocks in the Howwood Road regeneration area who have agreed to participate in the improvement works. Works will include external wall insulation (EWI), solar PV and replacement windows. 4. EES:ABS Programme 2025/26 Update 4.1 In 2025/26 the Council was awarded £1,163,400 in EES:Abs grant funding to support the delivery of energy efficiency works to eligible private owners. Project Value of EES:ABS Managing Agent for Wholly Privately Owned Properties £1,773,138 Renfrewshire Council Regeneration Areas Mixed Tenure Blocks in Auchentorlie and Howwood Road £288,000 Total £2,061,138 Page 176 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.2 A total of £252,663.95 of the EES:Abs grant funding was drawn down and used to support private owners across Renfrewshire. This was less than anticipated due to a number of factors that impacted on projects, such as higher than expected owner refusals in common blocks and difficulties that the managing agent had in obtaining necessary approvals. This led to the managing agent reprofiling works for completion in 2026/27. 4.3 The majority of grant expenditure in 2025/26 came via the managing agent programme, with the remainder being through the Council’s mixed tenure blocks investment projects. 4.4 Changeworks were appointed as a new managing agent in August 2025. Working in the Lochfield area where the Council has previously carried out investment programmes, and targeting eligible residents, they have been able to install external wall insulation and associated measures to 9 wholly private houses, utilising £169,263.95 of EES:Abs funding. A further 28 properties have signed up to the project but due to complexities of completing all necessary statutory approvals required, this meant that works could not proceed this financial year. These properties will be moved into the programme for 2026/27. 4.5 The Council’s mixed tenure blocks investment project delivered external improvement works including external wall insulation and associated measures to 20 flatted properties in projects across Renfrewshire. The grant funding allowed 7 private owners to benefit from these works, whilst works to a further 13 Council homes were funded by the Council through the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital programme. 5. EES:Abs Programme 2026/27 5.1 Members should note that we are in a better position to spend the award this year, as the managing agent is now established, ready for continuity of works and has 28 properties already signed up. However, there are a number of complexities with delivering works in line with the grant funding requirement and tight timescales to complete works and draw down funding. Owner consultations, prevalence of private landlords, building warrant applications, requirement to achieve technical and quality standards and increasing cost of works may also impact on the scheduling of works and the timetable and ability to fully draw down all of the allocated EES:Abs funding for 2026/27. This will be managed by the Head of Housing Services in line with the Scottish Government’s funding criteria timescales. 5.2 An update on the outcomes of the 2026/27 programme will be provided to the Policy Board on completion of the programme. ___________________________________________________________________ Page 177 of 366
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – EES:Abs allocation of £2,061,138 for 2026/27 to support owner participation in a range of energy efficiency projects within the Renfrewshire area 2. HR & Organisational Development – None 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – assisting private owners to participate in programmes to improve housing conditions, making Renfrewshire a great place to live • Our Renfrewshire is well – improving housing conditions benefitting tenants and private owners. Addressing fuel poverty. • Reshaping our place, our economy, and our future – investment in the refurbishment of social rented and private dwellings will create jobs and contribute to the economy. 4. Legal – None 5. Property/Assets – Improvements in the energy performance of both social rented and private dwellings 6. Information Technology - None 7. Equality & Human Rights (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety - None 9. Procurement – Procurement of suppliers to deliver some elements of this programme of work. 10. Risk - None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Risk – Projects will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency of both social rented and private dwellings. 13. Children’s Rights - None 14. COSLA Policy Position – None Page 178 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers (a) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 19 August 2025 – Housing Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2025/26 Award of Funding (b) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 20 August 2024 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2024/25 Award of Funding (b) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 22 August 2023 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2023/24 Award of Funding (c) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 16 August 2022 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2022/23 Award of Funding (d) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 17 August 2021 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2021/22 Award of Funding (e) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 20 August 2020 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2020/21 Award of Funding (f) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 20 August 2019 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2019/20 (g) Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 12 March 2019 – Home Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Programmes: 2019/20 ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Mark Brown, Housing Asset & Energy Strategy Manager Email: mark.brown@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 179 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 – Year Three: April 2025 to March 2026 Update Report ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 This report presents the third annual update report on the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028. It highlights progress in the delivery of the five strategic priorities and supporting actions within the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Notes the progress made in implementing the actions of the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 in the period 2025/26, as set out in Appendix 1 of this report. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 places a duty on local authorities to prepare a five-year local housing strategy which is informed by an assessment of housing provision and related services within the area. 3.2 Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy for 2023-2028 was approved at the Communities and Housing Policy Board on 31 October 2023. Item 9 Page 180 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.3 The Local Housing Strategy sets out the strategic approach of the Council and its partners to delivering high quality housing and housing related services across all tenures to meet identified housing need in Renfrewshire. It also seeks to provide a clear direction for strategic housing investment. 3.4 The Local Housing Strategy links with several key plans and strategies for Renfrewshire including the Local Development Plan, Health and Social Care Partnership Strategic Plan and the Community Plan. 3.5 The Local Housing Strategy contains five Strategic Priorities that take account of current national and local policy priorities. Progress in delivering the five strategic priorities and related actions within the Local Housing Strategy is reported annually to this Board. 3.6 Following consideration by the Board, the update report will be published on the Council’s website. 4. Summary of progress 4.1 The Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 – Year Three: April 2025 to March 2026 Update Report is attached as Appendix 1. It sets out the key achievements and progress made in achieving the strategic priorities of the Local Housing Strategy in 2025/26 as follows: • Strategic Priority 1: The supply and delivery of housing is increased across all tenures to meet the housing needs of different groups and create attractive and sustainable places • Strategic Priority 2: People live in high quality, well managed homes in sustainable neighbourhoods • Strategic Priority 3: Address the challenges of the climate emergency, delivering homes that are warm, energy efficient and fuel poverty is minimised • Strategic Priority 4: Prevention of homelessness and providing support for those in housing need • Strategic Priority 5: People can live independently for as long as possible in their own home and the different housing needs of people across Renfrewshire are being met 4.2 The report demonstrates that progress is being made against the actions associated with each of the Strategic Priorities set out in the Local Housing Strategy including: • the delivery of new social housing and the Council’s regeneration and renewal programme; Page 181 of 366
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PUBLIC • the preparation of community-prepared Local Place Plans many of which include housing aspirations; • support from the Council for private homeowners; • tackling fuel poverty; • addressing housing needs including homelessness; • and helping people stay in their own homes through adaptations and repairs. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – The financial implications of implementing this strategy are incorporated into the Council and the Housing Revenue Account plans. No new financial implications are introduced by this report. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – The Local Housing Strategy is considered to support the Renfrewshire Community Plan 2017-2027, particularly the theme of Our Renfrewshire is thriving through encouraging people to stay here and attracting new people to settle here; and making sure infrastructure (such as housing) is in place to support growth in the local population. It is considered to support the Council Plan 2022-2027 (June 2024 refresh) particularly the Place priority of ensuring Renfrewshire has a supply of green, high-quality, affordable, cross-tenure homes in the right places to meet current and future demands; and the Green priority of working towards a net zero Renfrewshire. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights - (a) The Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 was subject to Equality, Children’s Rights and Wellbeing and Fairer Scotland Duty Impact Assessment. This assessment found no negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights. While the recommendations included in this annual report are for noting only, if required, the impact of implementing Local Housing Strategy actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of any additional assessment will be published on the Council’s website. Page 182 of 366
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PUBLIC 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None. 12. Climate Risk – N/A 13. Children’s Rights – This report does not cover a new policy, function or strategy or a substantive change to an existing policy, function or strategy which will have an impact on children’s rights. 14. Cosla Policy Position – N/A ___________________________________________________________________ Appendix 1 Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 – Year Three: April 2025 to March 2026 Update Report List of Background Papers (a) Background Paper 1 Report to Communities and Housing Policy Board, 31 October 2023: Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028. The foregoing background papers will be retained within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Services for inspection by the public for the prescribed period of four years from the date of the meeting. The contact officer within the service is Alan Williamson, Strategy and Place Manager, alan.williamson@renfrewshire.gov.uk ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Alan Williamson, Strategy and Place Manager Email: alan.williamson@renfrewshire.gov.uk, 07811 053968 Page 183 of 366
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1 PUBLIC Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3: April 2025 to March 2026 Update Report Page 184 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 2 PUBLIC 1. Introduction 1.1 The Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 requires local authorities to produce a local housing strategy that sets outs its strategy, priorities and plans for the delivery of housing and housing related services. 1.2 The Renfrewshire Council Local Housing Strategy (LHS 2023-2028) is Renfrewshire’s fourth local housing strategy and sets out the strategic vision for housing and housing-related services in Renfrewshire and seeks to provide a clear direction for strategic housing investment. 1.3 LHS 2023-2028 identifies five strategic priorities: 1. The supply and delivery of housing is increased across all tenures to meet the housing needs of different groups and create attractive and sustainable places; 2. People live in high quality, well managed homes in sustainable neighbourhoods; 3. Address the challenges of the climate emergency, delivering homes that are warm, energy efficient and fuel poverty is minimised; 4. Prevention of homelessness and providing support for those in housing need; and 5. People can live independently for as long as possible in their own home and the different housing needs of people across Renfrewshire are being met. 1.4 LHS 2023-2028 identifies 43 actions to support these strategic priorities (see Appendix 1). 1.5 There is a statutory requirement to keep local housing strategies under review, and local authorities are expected to undertake a review annually and make the report publicly available. This report serves as the annual review. Page 185 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 3 PUBLIC 2. Strategic Context 2.1 The LHS 2023-2028 links with a number of other local plans and strategies for Renfrewshire including the Local Development Plan 2021, Renfrewshire’s Community Plan 2017- 2027, Renfrewshire’s Plan for Net Zero and the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership Strategic Plan, as well as helping to deliver national priorities, for example those set out in the Scottish Government’s Housing to 2040 document. 2.2 The national and local context can change over the five-year period of the strategy, which can influence the delivery of actions. Some recent local and national policy context changes are set out below. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 2.3 The Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 received Royal Assent in November 2025. The Act’s focus is mainly on homelessness prevention and the private rented sector with some more minor changes including tenants’ rights in relation to pets. Most of the key measures in the Act are set to be phased in through secondary legislation between 2026 and 2028. 2.4 One of the most significant aspects of the Act is the introduction of a new “ask and act duty” which places a duty on the Council and other public bodies to help prevent homelessness. Renfrewshire Council is part of a pilot project to inform approaches to the “ask and act” duties, the outcome of which will help the Scottish Government develop its national guidance on the implementation of the duties. Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 2.5 The Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 were introduced in March 2026. The Regulations mandate strict timelines for landlords to address damp and mould issues and will become effective from 6 October 2026. Applying to both social and private rented sectors, the aim of these Regulations is to prevent ill-health and fatalities caused by toxic mould exposure. Energy Efficiency/Climate Change 2.6 In November 2025, the Scottish Government announced a pause on the introduction of the Buildings (Heating and Energy Performance) and Heat Networks (Scotland) Bill. The Government did publish a draft of the Bill which proposes to set a target for decarbonising heating systems by Page 186 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 4 PUBLIC the end of 2045. Essentially, the target would aim to reduce the levels of greenhouse gas emissions that are directly caused by the combustion of fossil fuels for heating (as well as cooling and providing hot water within) buildings in Scotland. The draft Bill also proposes to give Scottish Ministers powers to make regulations to set minimum energy performance standards for buildings and powers to facilitate the expansion of heat networks. The National Housing Emergency 2.7 The Scottish Government declared a national housing emergency in May 2024, and housing pressures and issues contributing to this continued across Scotland during 2025/2026. Within Renfrewshire these pressures have included increasing demands on homelessness services and temporary accommodation, and an increasing number of applicants on the Council’s housing waiting list. 2.8 The Scottish Government published the Housing Emergency Action Plan in September 2025. The plan sets out an accelerated programme of action to reduce the number of households – particularly families with children – living in unsuitable or temporary accommodation and to build for Scotland’s future. 2.9 One of the main actions taken has been to increase the Affordable Housing Supply Programme budget and the announcement of the establishment of “More Homes Scotland”, a national housing agency intended to streamline and accelerate housing delivery and invest and drive improvements across the housing system. It is expected that More Homes Scotland will start operating from 2027-28 and be fully functional in 2028/2029. Page 187 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 5 PUBLIC 3. Achievements and progress 2025-2026 Key achievements and progress in delivering Strategic Priority 1: The supply and delivery of housing is increased across all tenures to meet the housing needs of different groups and create attractive and sustainable places 3.1 Ninety-eight new affordable homes were completed in 2025/26 over three development sites with a further 319 new homes currently under construction (LHS 2023-2028 Action 3). 3.2 Sutherland Street, Paisley by Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association - 35 new homes completed on the site of former tenements and student accommodation, offering a mix of two and three- bedroom houses and flats for social rent. The new homes form part of the wider regeneration of Paisley’s West End. 3.3 Cartha Crescent, Paisley by Williamsburgh Housing Association - 33 new homes completed, providing a mix of two and three-bedroom homes on a brownfield site in south-east Paisley. Page 188 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 6 PUBLIC 3.4 Hawkhead, Paisley by Link Housing Association - 30 two-bedroom flatted properties completed as part of a mixed tenure residential development. 3.5 Development work is underway at the following sites which will deliver 319 new units of social rented housing. Site Social Housing Provider Number of Units Johnstone Castle, Johnstone Link Group/C -urb 68 Orchard St, Paisley Paisley Housing Association 50 Bishopton (phase 3a) Loretto Housing Association 46 Gallowhill, Paisley Renfrewshire Council 65 Howwood Road Johnstone (site 1) Renfrewshire Council 70 Bishopton (phase 4) Loretto Housing Association 20 Site at Johnstone Castle, Link/C-urb Site at Dargavel Village, Bishopton, Loretto Page 189 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 7 PUBLIC 3.6 In addition to new build social rented homes, 42 established properties were purchased by the Council and local housing associations in 2025/26, using grant funding from the Scottish Government to provide additional housing for social rent. 3.7 Renfrewshire’s Strategic Housing Investment Programme 2026-2031 (SHIP) was approved in October 2025. This sets out how grant funding will be used to support delivery of affordable homes across Renfrewshire over the next 5 years. 3.8 In March 2026, the Scottish Government issued 4-year resource planning assumption (RPA) figures. These figures provide an increased level of grant support for delivering affordable housing in Renfrewshire totalling £80.206m over 2026-27 to 2029-30. The multi-year resource planning assumption provides greater certainty on funding levels across the period of the SHIP. 3.9 The Scottish Government also updated affordable housing investment benchmarks, being the conditionally available levels of funding to develop homes, with a 4.6% increase across all benchmarks (except for that related to zero direct emissions heating systems which was increased by approximately 24.7%). The new ‘baseline’ benchmark based on a 3-person equivalent home for city and urban authorities is £100,145 for registered social landlords and £91,800 for local authorities. The benchmark can be increased based on additional features being included in the funded property. 3.10 Preparation of the next Renfrewshire Local Development Plan (LDP 3) is progressing with the new plan programmed to be adopted in 2028 (LHS 2023-2028 Action 1). In October 2025, the Council submitted its LDP3 Evidence Report to Scottish Ministers, which successfully passed the gatecheck assessment in December 2025. A public consultation was held between November 2025 and January 2026, for communities and the development industry to submit suggestions for land use and development sites to be considered in preparing the new plan. Most suggestions related to proposed housing sites. The final LDP3 will set out strategy, policy and proposals for the use of land and building in Renfrewshire up to 2038 and beyond. It will set out a local Housing Land Requirement based on housing need and demand evidence and a range of other factors. Page 190 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 8 PUBLIC Key achievements and progress in delivering Strategic Priority 2: People live in high quality, well managed homes in sustainable neighbourhoods 3.11 Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Regeneration and Renewal Programme continued in 2025/26 (LHS 2023-2028 Action 5), with activities including: • Engagement with communities across the regeneration programme, with drop in and community events held as and when required to keep residents informed. • Consultation with owners in the Howwood Road retention area which identified 18 owners willing to participate in enhanced mixed tenure improvement works. • Positive negotiations resulting in the acquisition of a further 8 private properties within regeneration areas that have been approved for demolition, bringing the total acquired to date to 72 of 89 properties approved for demolition. • At Waverley Road, Paisley, demolition of 12 blocks of tenement flats has been completed and an event was held to showcase energy improvements and design features proposed for the retained blocks. Residents were also shown draft environmental improvements to provide feedback on before plans are finalised. • Active engagement with owners in mixed tenure blocks across the regeneration programme continued and is yielding positive results with increased participation already visible within the Auchentorlie, Paisley and Howwood Road, Johnstone areas. • External block improvements to 5 blocks within the Howard Street area and 4 blocks in the Auchentorlie area, both Paisley, have been completed with a further 5 blocks agreed for future phases of works across these areas. • Two phases of demolition were carried out in the Thrushcraigs area of Paisley and a further phase of demolition took place in the Springbank area of Paisley. • Feasibility studies were carried out across the Broomlands, Thrushcraigs and Springbank areas (all Paisley) to inform newbuild development requirements. Demolition at Thrushcraigs Crescent, Paisley Page 191 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 9 PUBLIC 3.12 Efforts continue to support housing investment and development projects in Renfrewshire’s town centres (LHS 2023-2028 Action 6). The 2025 Housing Land Audit includes 12 sites in town centre locations. There is interest from registered social landlords in taking opportunities to deliver new affordable homes in Paisley Town Centre or within its vicinity. This includes the former site of Paisley Grammar School. The emerging Local Development Plan and updates of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan will continue to identify new opportunities for residential development in town centres to support an increase in town centre living. 3.13 The Orchard Street tenement refurbishment in Paisley (left) continued during 2025/26. This is a complex project in a key town centre location, covering five tenement blocks of both residential and commercial property and a category B listed building. On completion the project will provide 50 refurbished flats for social rent by Paisley Housing Association. Tenement refurbishment at Orchard Street, Paisley 3.14 Seven long-term empty properties were brought back into use during the 2025/26 financial year following advice and assistance offered to owners from Renfrewshire Council’s More Homes Officer (LHS 2023-2028 Action 7). In the same period, Renfrewshire Council applied for project funding from the Scottish Government in conjunction with Shelter for an additional More Homes Officer and to facilitate a geographic information system (GIS) based approach to managing empty homes data. This application was successful, and the additional resource will help identify priority areas to increase the number of long-term empty properties brought back into use over the next 2 years. 3.15 Across Renfrewshire various community groups prepared Local Place Plans with the help of funding made available from the Council (LHS 2023-2028 Action 8). These are community-led plans that focus on the existing and future use of land and set out proposals for potential developments in the community. Nine Local Place Plans have been prepared by local communities and were submitted to the Council for validation and registration. These cover Bridge of Weir, Houston, Paisley West and Central, Inchinnan, Renfrew, Langbank, Lochwinnoch, Paisley East Page 192 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 10 PUBLIC and Whitehaugh, and Ralston. Other communities are preparing or considering preparation of Local Place Plans. Several of the prepared Local Place Plans raise issues related to housing within their communities. This includes suggesting possible sites for housing development and general support for housing that meets local people’s needs. 3.16 The Council supports owners to maintain and repair their home primarily through the provision of advice and assistance. During 2025/26, the Council’s Owner Services Team provided 1,193 owners with information and advice on property condition and repairs issues and 51 private homeowners were awarded grant support for major capital investment works (LHS 2023-2028 Action 12). 3.17 During 2025/26 over 200 enquiries were received about the Council’s “Missing Shares” scheme which provide owners in tenement blocks the opportunity to apply for the Council to pay a portion of essential common repair costs where there are unresponsive or uncooperative owners. The Council funded 4 missing shares in 3 different tenement blocks, benefitting 29 owners and helping to prevent these blocks falling into further disrepair (LHS 2023-2028 Action 14). 3.18 The Council continues to ensure that privately rented residential properties are safe and that landlords are "fit and proper" persons to manage homes (LHS 2023-2028 Action 19). As of 31 March 2026, there were 6,893 registered landlords with 11,128 registered properties in Renfrewshire. Between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026, two landlords were refused registration by the Regulatory Functions Board. A further nine were refused due to failures to confirm compliance with their legal responsibilities as a landlord on their application for registration, relevant to the safety and suitability of let properties. The Council’s Environmental Health Team investigated 45 complaints about private rental property and issued 133 Rent Penalty Notices in the year to 31 March 2026. Page 193 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 11 PUBLIC Key achievements and progress in delivering Strategic Priority 3: Address the challenges of the climate emergency, delivering homes that are warm, energy efficient and fuel poverty is minimised 3.19 In April 2025 the Council secured £1.8m grant funding from the Scottish Government to support the replacement of gas heating in two high rise blocks in Gallowhill, Paisley (right) with a ground source heat pump system providing sustainable clean heating for 180 homes. This is the first time a local authority in Scotland has deployed a ground source heat pump system of this nature and scale. During 2025/2026 on-site pre- enabling work started and borehole networks were completed followed by significant groundworks (LHS 2023-2028 Action 22). 3.20 Other investment in existing housing to improve energy efficiency in 2025/26 included: • Williamsburgh Housing Association upgraded 31 homes with internal wall insulation, continuing its rolling annual programme of investment. This was supported by £48,250 grant funding. • Renfrewshire Council homes benefited from a range of external improvement works, with 1,132 installations completed. This included measures such as external wall insulation (EWI), roof and gutter replacement, windows and door renewals, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and improvements to loft insulation. Collectively, these enhancements extend the lifespan of the housing stock, enhance building performance and contribute to improved living conditions for residents. This includes eight blocks in the Auchentorlie/Seedhill area of Paisley which received significant upgrades including solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, external wall insulation (EWI), roof and gutter replacement, windows and door replacement, and loft insulation. Page 194 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 12 PUBLIC Block at Auchentorlie Crescent, Paisley before and after investment works 3.21 A Net Zero Pilot Project in Houston Place in Elderslie (left) was completed by the Council in October 2025, supported by £254,000 grant from the Scottish Government. 3.22 This project demonstrated a whole house retrofit approach to eight terraced council homes. Gas central heating systems were changed to a clean heating source with Air Source Heat Pumps installed to provide efficient, renewable heating and hot water. A range of further property enhancements were made including solar panels, external wall insulation, triple glazing, loft insulation and new external doors. 3.23 These works will help alleviate fuel costs and provide comfortable, high performing energy efficient homes. The insight gained from this pilot will aid design of future schemes. Page 195 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 13 PUBLIC 3.24 Various fuel poverty/energy advice services operated across Renfrewshire in 2025/26 (LHS 2023-2028 Action 26). Examples include: • Williamsburgh Housing Association delivered over £1 million in financial gains, including £145,889 in energy support to tenants during 2025/26, alongside providing 1,350 interventions to assist households facing ongoing energy costs and financial pressures. • Renfrewshire Council’s energy advocates supported residents of all tenures, helping with fuel debt reduction, supplier disputes, advice on insulation and heating upgrades, supplier switching and energy use. During 2025/26, 546 referrals were received and resulted in £130,563 in savings. • Paisley Housing Association was successful in being awarded £480,000 from the energy industry voluntary redress scheme to deliver an energy advocacy service for all FLAIR Housing Associations across 2026/27 and 2027/28. This project is going live on 1st June 2026. • The Council’s Energy Management Unit manage the Energy Company Obligation ECO Flex 4 funding which is a UK Government energy efficiency scheme administered by Ofgem. It aims to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty. In 2025/26 grant funding of £597,000 was requested, resulting in an annual CO2 saving of 118,805 kg. 3.25 Through the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficiency Scotland: Area Based Scheme funding is made available for local authorities to manage projects to improve energy efficiency in homes. In 2025/26 £252,663 was drawn down to support private owners across Renfrewshire. Funding of £83,400 was used to support 7 owners within the Council’s regeneration programme and mixed tenure blocks investment projects in locations across Renfrewshire (LHS 2023-2028 Action 30). Works including external wall insulation and associated measures were carried out to 20 flatted properties, with 13 Council tenants benefitting from the works which were funded by the Council through the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme. 3.26 In August 2025 the Council appointed Changeworks as a managing agent to deliver energy efficiency works to eligible fully private houses and blocks. Funding of £169,263 was drawn down to support participating owners in the Lochfield area of Paisley. Page 196 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 14 PUBLIC Key achievements and progress in delivering Strategic Priority 4: Prevention of homelessness and providing support for those in housing need 3.27 Actions to respond to continued homelessness pressures in 2025/26 included: • Registered social landlords increased the number of lets made to homeless applicants to 217 in 2025/26, compared to 207 in the previous year. 386 properties, or 56% of general Council lets were allocated to statutory homeless applicants, slightly above the target of 55% (LHS 2023-2028 Action 34). • The number of furnished temporary accommodation properties had increased to 303 units by the end of March 2026 from 291 in September 2025 (LHS 2023-2028 Action 36). • Many of the 618 homeless applicants who moved into a social rented tenancy were supported through various tenancy sustainment services provided by the Council and partners. 3.28 The Housing First approach is aimed at people who have multiple and complex needs and seeks to prevent homelessness and repeat homelessness (LHS 2023-2028 Action 37). This approach has continued to expand in 2025/26 via the following activities: • RCA Trust’s Opening Doors initiative was launched in 2025/26 which supports individuals experiencing and alcohol and gambling issues to sustain their tenancies. This has been extended into 2026/2027. • Blue Triangle’s WRAP (Working to Reconnect + Achieve Potential) intensive housing support initiative, focussing on setting up and sustaining tenancies and an outreach service to help participants engage with relevant psychiatric, mental health and addiction services. • Renfrewshire Council’s in house provision of housing support (Housing Support+). 3.29 During 2025/26, a total of 210 new individuals were supported through the Housing First approach, with capacity to support up to 100 service users at any one time. (LHS 2023-2028 Action 35). 3.30 Renfrewshire Council launched the New Harbour Project in March 2026. This in-house, housing-led and trauma-informed model prioritises individuals experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness linked to drug and/or alcohol use, with a particular focus on women. Delivery of this new initiative, which is being funded from the Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership and funding from the former Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drug Commission is be led by a dedicated in- house team and complements the other Housing First related wraparound support measures we have in place in Renfrewshire. The initiative can support approximately 25 service users at any one time (LHS 2023-2028 Action 37). Page 197 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 15 PUBLIC 3.31 Renfrewshire was awarded funding as part of a national initiative to prevent homelessness before it occurs. The Scottish Government has committed £4m to support 15 pilot projects across Scotland, with Renfrewshire’s Community Planning Partnership amongst those selected. The pilot will embed the new ‘ask and act’ duties within community and statutory services, ensuring that staff proactively identify housing instability and take early action to prevent homelessness. Led by the Health and Social Care Partnership, in collaboration with NHSGGC and a range of local partners, the project will prioritise improving mental health and wellbeing outcomes for individuals at risk. Page 198 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 16 PUBLIC Key achievements and progress in delivering Strategic Priority 5: People can live independently for as long as possible in their own home and the different housing needs of people across Renfrewshire are being met 3.32 Care and Repair Renfrewshire provides free advice and practical assistance to people who are older or have disabilities (LHS 2023-2028 Action 38). The aim is to enable small repairs and major adaptations to be carried out to allow people to maintain their independence and remain in their homes comfortably, safely and securely. 3.33 In 2025/26, Care and Repair Renfrewshire: • completed 75 adaptations • completed 1,406 repair jobs through the Small Repairs Service for older and disabled people • dealt with 76 advice cases 3.34 Seventy-five homeowners were awarded grant support for adaptations following referral from the Health and Social Care Partnership who work closely with Housing Services and Care and Repair Renfrewshire. 3.35 In 2025/26, Renfrewshire Council completed 378 adaptations within 283 council homes. 3.36 Working with the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership, two properties in the newbuild Council housing development at Gallowhill will be provided to meet complex care needs. These properties will include features to meet specific needs of this client group in a community setting (LHS 2023-2028 Action 41). 3.37 The Council’s Refugee Resettlement Team was supporting 285 households across Renfrewshire as at the end of May 2026. During 2025-2026, the team saw a small increase in arrivals from Afghanistan and assisted the Scottish Government’s Medical Evacuation Scheme by supporting a family evacuated from Gaza for medical treatment in Scotland (LHS 2023-2028 Action 42). Page 199 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 17 PUBLIC 3.38 The Wellbeing Hub has continued to deliver activities which support integration, community cohesion, and participation in line with COSLA’s key strategic priorities for local authorities. 3.39 Links have now been established with a local charity, Pachedu, to strengthen community- based support and partnership working. The Know Your Rights sessions have also helped strengthen links with education colleagues, enabling a more coordinated approach to the provision of support in the community. 3.40 A range of Hub activities has also provided opportunities for informal language practice, complementing formal ESOL provision, where collaboration with West College Scotland and Community Learning and Development (CLAD) continues to expand language support into 2026/27. Page 200 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 18 PUBLIC Appendix 1 The Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 List of Actions Strategic Priority 1 The supply and delivery of housing is increased across all tenures to meet the housing needs of different groups and create attractive and sustainable places 1 Identify and maintain a continuous supply of housing land in sustainable locations across Renfrewshire to support delivery of a mix of housing types and tenures to meet housing need and demand. 2 Support development of previously used and brownfield sites making best use of existing and planned infrastructure. 3 Deliver the rolling affordable housing supply programme set out in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan to deliver new energy efficient and digitally enabled homes and identify new projects that contribute to meeting the strategic priorities of this Local Housing Strategy. 4 Make use of the Affordable Housing Policy to increase the supply of affordable housing and help create mixed sustainable communities. Strategic Priority 2 People live in high quality, well managed homes in sustainable neighbourhoods 5 Deliver local regeneration strategies providing new affordable, energy efficient and digitally enabled homes in sustainable places that reflect Renfrewshire Council’s commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions’. 6 Continue to support town centre action plans and support housing investment and development projects in Renfrewshire’s town centres. 7 Support owners of empty properties to bring these homes back into productive use. 8 Support local communities in the preparation of community led Place Plans. 9 Develop approaches to maximise investment in Council homes and privately owned homes within the Council’s regeneration and renewal areas. 10 Develop and implement a multi-disciplinary approach to neighbourhood renewal plans. 11 Continue to address Below Tolerable Standard properties across Renfrewshire. 12 Continue to provide advice and assistance to private homeowners through the Scheme of Assistance. 13 Undertake a review of the Council’s Scheme of Assistance for private homeowners taking into account legislative changes. 14 Continue the Missing Shares pilot for older tenement property and review its effectiveness. Page 201 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 19 PUBLIC 15 Increase uptake of factoring services providing a co-ordinated maintenance regime for mixed tenure blocks. 16 Implement Revised Council Housing Asset Management Strategy. 17 Monitor the operation of the private rented market in Renfrewshire. 18 Provide additional support, advocacy and representation for people living in private rented tenancies. 19 Continue to make effective use of enforcement actions against private landlords who fail to meet the required standards in relation to the management and maintenance of their property. Strategic Priority 3 Address the challenges of the climate emergency, delivering homes that are warm, energy efficient and fuel poverty is minimised 20 Implement the housing-related actions within Renfrewshire’s Plan for Net Zero that contribute towards Renfrewshire’s net zero targets. 21 In newbuild affordable homes, the Council and housing associations will use renewable technology and other measures to provide energy efficient, well-ventilated homes that are low or zero emissions and meet the Scottish Government’s New Build Heat Standard Regulations effective from 1 April 2024. 22 Where feasible, retrofit existing social rented homes with renewable technology and other measures to improve aspects including energy efficiency, heating, ventilation and carbon emissions; including alternatives to gas boilers such as heat pumps and assessing suitability of properties to connect to heat networks if within a heat network zone. 23 Encourage and support owners and private landlords to improve the energy efficiency of their properties to meet specific targets, reduce fuel bills and carbon emissions; accessing funding opportunities as appropriate, to achieve this. 24 (a) Private housebuilders will be required to meet the New Build Heat Standard Regulations effective from 1 April 2024 for new buildings that apply for a building warrant. (b) Where feasible, new developments will connect to heat networks where developments are within heat network zones to provide energy efficient homes that reflect Renfrewshire Council’s commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions 25 Work towards meeting the national fuel poverty targets and reducing the amount of people affected by fuel poverty across Renfrewshire. 26 The Council and housing associations operating in Renfrewshire will continue to provide good quality fuel poverty advice, income maximisation and information to tenants, owners and private tenants. 27 Support the preparation and implementation of a Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) that sets out a long term energy efficiency and heat decarbonisation strategy for Renfrewshire. Page 202 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 20 PUBLIC 28 The Council and housing associations operating in Renfrewshire will work towards meeting the requirements and milestones of the emerging Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS) for social rented housing. 29 All Council newbuild homes meet or exceed Section 7, Silver Level Aspects 1 and 2 of the 2011 Building Regulations – energy for space heating. 30 The Council and housing associations operating in Renfrewshire will maximise the number of privately owned or privately rented properties who participate in energy efficiency and low carbon improvement activities, including Scottish Government Energy Efficient Scotland Area Based Schemes (EES:ABS), as part of the wider improvements to improve the energy efficiency of homes. 31 Engage with private landlords to provide support and encourage energy efficiency improvements in line with proposals set out in the Heat in Buildings Bill. 32 Promote and support available energy efficiency measures to both private owners and private landlords, including obtaining financial support. Strategic Priority 4 Prevention of homelessness and providing support for those in housing need 33 Review the Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan 2019-2024 and make recommendations on future approaches to homelessness in Renfrewshire. 34 Increase the number and proportion of social housing lets being let to homeless applicants. 35 Continue to strengthen the approach to prevention and repeat homelessness by providing holistic wraparound support to households in Renfrewshire. 36 Continue to assess requirements for temporary accommodation and provide appropriate supply, in light of aims set out in the Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan and current trends in homelessness. 37 Build on the rapid rehousing approach to ensure access to specialist services is readily available via robust pathways for homeless people with complex needs, including mental health and harmful alcohol and/or drugs use. Strategic Priority 5 People can live independently for as long as possible in their own home and the different housing needs of people across Renfrewshire are being met 38 Work with partners and stakeholders to provide housing and housing related support opportunities for older and vulnerable people to help them live independently and healthily in their own home. 39 Support partners in the development and implementation of a Renfrewshire Dementia Action Plan reflecting the objectives and priorities of the Dementia Strategy for Scotland 2023. 40 Increase the supply of new housing that meets the needs of older people and those with mobility difficulties. Page 203 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 21 PUBLIC 41 Work in partnership with the Housing and Social Care Partnership to identify specialist housing and housing related support opportunities for people with particular needs in Renfrewshire and in taking specific initiatives forward. 42 Continue to support the various refugee and asylum programmes including the provision of settled accommodation. 43 Following the publication of the Scottish Government’s June 2023 Action Plan and the emerging associated toolkit, we will consider options to best meet the housing needs of the Gypsy/Traveller community. Page 204 of 366
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Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Year 3 2025-2026 Update Report 22 PUBLIC Chief Executive’s Service Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR Page 205 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-32 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032 (attached at Appendix 1) sets out the housing investment priorities for projects across Renfrewshire that will be supported by Scottish Government funding through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme. 1.2 Renfrewshire’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan is reviewed and updated each year in partnership with housing associations and the Scottish Government. 1.3 The draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032 will be subject to a four-week public consultation, with the finalised version reported to the 27th October 2026 Communities and Housing Policy Board. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Approves the draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027- 2032, as set out in Appendix 1, for consultation purposes. ___________________________________________________________________ Item 10 Page 206 of 366
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PUBLIC 3. Background 3.1 The draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan outlines how Scottish Government funding for affordable housing will be targeted to achieve the priorities set out in Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy and support the delivery of a range of affordable housing projects across Renfrewshire. 3.2 As part of the Affordable Housing Supply Programme process, the Scottish Government allocate grant funding, known as Resource Planning Assumptions, to individual Council areas. Resource Planning Assumptions support the delivery of new affordable homes and the acquisition of suitable homes for social rent on the open market across Renfrewshire. 3.3 Following the approval of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan last year, the Scottish Government confirmed a Resource Planning Assumption of £19.171 million for 2026/27 which is an increase from the £17.311 million allocated in 2025/26. The Scottish Government also confirmed the Resource Planning Assumption for the first three years of the new Strategic Housing Investment Plan: • £19.747 million (2027/28) • £20.339 million (2028/29) • £20.949 million (2029/30) 3.4 The increased Resource Planning Assumption and return to a multi-year allocation provides an opportunity to add new projects to the programme and provides greater certainty to plan for the delivery of longer-term projects. 3.5 Resource Planning Assumptions support the delivery of new affordable homes by providing grant support at benchmark rates. The Scottish Government benchmark grant rates are set at £91,800 for newbuild Council homes and £100,145 for newbuild social rented homes delivered by housing association partners. These benchmark rates are flexible to allow projects to be eligible for higher grant award per property following detailed assessment. 3.6 Additional grant funding is also available on top of the grant benchmark rates where affordable housing developers include specific qualitative design features related to zero emissions; the installation of automatic fire suppression systems; electric vehicle charging points; space for home working; provision of balconies and digital connectivity. 4. Draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-2032 4.1 The draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes a range of housing projects that aim to deliver affordable homes of different types and sizes throughout Renfrewshire to meet people’s housing needs, including smaller and larger homes for both general and particular needs. Page 207 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.2 The draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes an affordable housing programme to be delivered by the Council and its housing association partners supported by Scottish Government grant funding. 4.3 Implementation of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes flexibility to accelerate affordable housing projects within the programme to take advantage of any additional funding that may become available to Renfrewshire, or to mitigate any slippage on projects to ensure that all available funding is fully utilised in supporting the delivery of the right homes in the right places. 4.4 The draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan also contains funding provision for the Council’s own ambitious newbuild development programme and to support the acquisition of suitable established homes for social rent on the open market across Renfrewshire. 4.5 In preparing the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan, the Council and Housing Association partners reviewed the existing development programme and considered new sites which could utilise the increased Resource Planning Assumptions. 4.6 The review of the development programme and potential new sites were considered in relation to the amount of funding likely to be available during the five-year period of the plan, alignment with Renfrewshire Local Housing Strategy strategic priorities and deliverability of the projects. 4.7 The following key changes have been made to the development programme in preparing the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan: • The current Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes provision for approximately 100 new affordable homes in and around Paisley town centre. This has been reviewed and replaced by two specific sites in the development programme: o Former Paisley Grammar site, Paisley – 92 affordable homes, RSL TBC o Lonend, Paisley – 66 affordable homes, Paisley Housing Association. • Following detailed site investigations and feasibility work, the capacity of 2 sites in the current Strategic Housing Investment Plan have been increased: o Foxbar Rivers, Paisley – capacity of site increased from 45 to 71 homes, Paisley Housing Association. o Rannoch Road, Johnstone – number of affordable homes to be delivered on site increased from 30 to 36, Loretto Housing Association. Page 208 of 366
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PUBLIC • 3 new sites have been added to the development programme: o Nethercraigs Drive, Paisley - approximately 28 new homes for Link Housing Association. o Almond Crescent, Paisley – approximately 40 new homes for Paisley Housing Association. o Barochan Road, Houston – 25 affordable homes to be delivered as part of private development by Miller Homes, affordable housing partner to be confirmed. 5. Next Steps 5.1 Consultation on the draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 will take place between August and September 2026. This will involve further engagement with all developing housing associations operating in Renfrewshire, local stakeholder groups such as community councils and tenants and residents’ associations, community planning partners, other stakeholder groups and Renfrewshire’s residents. In addition, paper copies of the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan will be made available at the Customer Service Centre in Renfrewshire House and local libraries during the consultation. 5.2 Following the consultation and taking account of feedback received the Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 will be finalised and presented to the October meeting of Policy Board for consideration. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial - Provision has been made within the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Budget in relation to the projects where the Council is the developing organisation. 2. HR & Organisational Development - None. 3. Community/Council Planning – Renfrewshire Community Plan 2017-2027 – the SHIP is considered to align with the Renfrewshire is Thriving priority as additional housing supply will encourage people to stay in Renfrewshire and attract new people to settle in Renfrewshire, and by making sure the infrastructure is in place to support growth in the local economy and population. Renfrewshire Council Plan – the SHIP is considered to align with the Place outcome by contributing to Renfrewshire having a supply of green, high- quality, affordable, cross-tenure homes in the right places to meet current and future demands Page 209 of 366
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PUBLIC 4. Legal - Conveyancing work associated with land disposals, and any site assembly and title changes or checks. All new Council contracts for new build affordable housing will require input from the contracts and project legal sections at the pre and post tender stages through to award. 5. Property/Assets - None. 6. Information Technology - None. 7. Equality & Human Rights (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety - None. 9. Procurement - None. 10. Risk - Scottish Government funding for affordable housing development does not carry forward into the next financial year. There is therefore a risk that funding could be lost to Renfrewshire if there is slippage in the delivery of any of the projects. This is mitigated by ongoing monitoring of projects and the prior identification of alternative projects for funding to be spent on if slippage occurs. 11. Privacy Impact - None. 12. Climate Risk - The Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan aims to deliver high quality, energy efficient homes in sustainable locations across Renfrewshire. 13. Children’s Rights - None 14. Cosla Policy Position - None. ___________________________________________________________________ (a) Appendix 1 – Draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Alan Williamson, Strategy and Place Manager Email: alan.williamson@renfrewshire.gov.uk, Tel: 07811 053968 Page 210 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 2 PUBLIC Preparation and Consultation This draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 has been prepared for consultation following on-going discussions with the Scottish Government and housing association partners operating in Renfrewshire. Individuals, groups and stakeholders are encouraged to comment and provide feedback to help shape the finalised Strategic Housing Investment Plan to ensure that it reflects the views of Renfrewshire’s communities and partners. The finalised Strategic Housing Investment Plan will be submitted to the Council’s Communities and Housing Policy Board on the 27th October 2026, after which it will also be submitted to the Scottish Government. Following submission of the finalised Strategic Housing Investment Plan to the Scottish Government, a Strategic Local Programme Agreement (SLPA) for Renfrewshire will form the basis of individual agreements between the Scottish Government, Renfrewshire Council and housing association partners on funding for specific affordable housing projects as detailed in the finalised Strategic Housing Investment Plan. Public consultation on this Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan will open on 21st August 2026 with the consultation closing on 18th September 2026. Comments should be returned by email or by post to: Email: strategyandplace@renfrewshire.gov.uk Economy and Development Team, Chief Executives Service, Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1WB Page 213 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 3 PUBLIC 1. Introduction The development of new affordable homes across Renfrewshire is supported by the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP). This requires local authorities to produce a Strategic Housing Investment Plan annually, detailing how grant funding allocated to local authority areas by the Scottish Government, will be utilised to facilitate the delivery of new affordable homes. This annual update of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan covers the period 2027 – 2032 and has been produced following engagement with our partners, including the Scottish Government and registered social landlords with an interest in the Renfrewshire area. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan is presented to the Scottish Government, and along with a Strategic Local Programme Agreement, will underpin agreements between Renfrewshire Council, the Scottish Government and each registered social landlord with regards to funding for specific affordable housing projects. The following appendices form part of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan: Appendix 1: Renfrewshire affordable housing project updates Appendix 2: Affordable housing completions between 2021 and 2026 and estimated completions 2026/27 Appendix 3: Affordable housing projects 2027-2032 In preparing the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, the Council consulted with registered social landlord partners to encourage the submission of new sites to be considered for inclusion in the plan. Following this process, four new sites are being included in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan for the first time: • Former Paisley Grammar School site (92 homes) • Lonend, Paisley (66 homes) • Almond Crescent, Paisley (40 homes) • Nethercraigs Drive, Paisley (28 homes) Page 214 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 4 PUBLIC 2. Alignment with Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy and Development Plan The Strategic Housing Investment Plan reflects the Scottish Government’s Housing and Planning Delivery Framework, which seeks to deliver improved outcomes from enhanced cooperation between Housing and Planning Services to deliver the Local Housing Strategy, Housing Need and Demand Assessment and the Development Plan. The priorities of the Local Housing Strategy and the spatial strategy of the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan (LDP2, 2021) will, in part, be achieved through delivery of the affordable housing projects included within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan and which are expected to benefit from Scottish Government grant funding. In line with the Local Development Plan and Local Housing Strategy, the projects included in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan aim to support the delivery of warm, energy efficient homes which help meet people’s housing needs and support the delivery of sustainable places across Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy The fourth Local Housing Strategy for Renfrewshire was approved at the Council’s Communities and Housing Policy Board in October 2023. The Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 looks to build on past successes whilst aiming to meet need and demand for both housing and housing related services.. The Local Housing Strategy includes 5 strategic priorities as shown on the next page. Page 215 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 5 PUBLIC This Strategic Housing Investment Plan is informed and influenced by the priorities of the Local Housing Strategy. Development Plan for Renfrewshire Renfrewshire’s Development Plan consists of National Planning Framework 4 and the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan (LDP2, 2021). Renfrewshire’s Development Plan enables the development of new homes which improve affordability, options, accessibility and adaptability, including the provision of wheelchair accessible homes. Projects included in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan are considered in the context of policies in the National Planning Framework 4 and the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan, and any future planning applications will be assessed against this policy framework. Delivery is an important consideration in development planning for housing. As part of the housing land audit process, all sites, including sites within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, are assessed for deliverability, taking into account known constraints. Any constraints identified for affordable housing sites will be resolved by the developing housing provider on a site-by-site basis. Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Strategic Priorities 1. The supply and delivery of housing is increased across all tenures to meet the housing needs of different groups and create attractive and sustainable places. ; 2. People live in high quality, well managed homes in sustainable neighbourhoods. ; 3. Address the challenges of the climate emergency, delivering homes that are warm, energy efficient and fuel poverty is minimised ; 4. Prevention of homelessness and providing support for those in housing need ; and 5. People can live independently for as long as possible in their own home and the different housing needs of people across Renfrewshire are being met . Page 216 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 6 PUBLIC 3. Meeting Renfrewshire’s Affordable Housing Needs and Local Housing Strategy Priorities The Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes a range of projects to deliver new affordable homes across Renfrewshire, in line with the housing needs and the strategic priorities as set out in Renfrewshire Local Housing Strategy 2023-28. The Renfrewshire Local Development Plan supports a range and choice of housing to achieve sustainable communities and development proposals that provide a mix of housing types and tenures to meet current and future housing needs. Affordable housing must be designed in line with Housing for Variable Needs standards and be readily adaptable in the future, to accommodate the tenant and resident’s potentially changing needs as their life progresses. In line with the priorities of Local Housing Strategy, high quality, energy efficient homes are also supported in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, with acknowledgment of the benefits that quality affordable housing can have on peoples’ lives and Renfrewshire’s places. The Council will continue to cooperate with registered social landlords to agree the most suitable types and sizes of property on each project, with consideration of both Council and registered social landlords’ waiting lists, and housing needs set out in the Local Housing Strategy. Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership will also be involved in early conversations around developments to advise whether projects are feasible, sustainable and suitable for the needs of members of our communities with special housing needs. Details of property size on recently completed developments and those with planning consent can be found in Appendices 1 and 2. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan has predominantly sought to add new-build homes to the supply of affordable homes for social rent and this will continue over the lifetime of this edition. However, Renfrewshire Council acknowledge the requirement for other affordable options such as shared equity and mid-market rent as part of larger developments. The inclusion of alternative affordable options will be considered and assessed for each individual site, considering the viability and available grant funding from the Scottish Government. Page 217 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 7 PUBLIC New affordable homes will continue to be delivered on private sector sites, in line with affordable housing policies in the National Planning Framework and Local Development Plan. This will add new sites to future updates of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan to help meet housing needs across Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy requires homes to meet a variety of specific needs, to prevent homelessness and to allow people to continue to live independently in their own homes. Projects included in this Strategic Housing Investment Plan are expected to deliver homes to meet specific needs in Renfrewshire, with mixed amenity housing and purpose built homes for specific requirements to be included in projects, with the support of grant funding. As an example, the second phase of the development in the Florish Road area of Erskine will support this, with the inclusion of 18 amenity homes for older people, which are due to be completed in May 2028. The development at Stirling Drive in Linwood will also contribute by delivering 14 amenity homes for older people and 2 homes specifically designed and ready to accommodate wheelchair users. Wheelchair Accessible Housing Housing providers will be required to design homes that are suitable for the occupant’s needs, not just currently, but with the future in mind, as the occupant’s needs change. Renfrewshire, like the most of Scotland, has an ageing population, with almost 20% of its population aged 65+. As such, developers should be mindful of an increasing need for homes which are both accessible and readily adaptable. The Local Housing Strategy includes agreed targets for the inclusion of wheelchair accessible homes in new-build developments, specifically: New residential proposals must provide a minimum 10% of all dwellings designed to be easily adaptable for residents who are wheelchair users; and 5% of all new homes must be designed to wheelchair accessible standards. Two Renfrewshire Council developments which are currently under construction at Gallowhill and Howwood Road will exceed these targets, with 30% of homes at Gallowhill and 40% at Howwood Road designed to be wheelchair accessible. Addressing Homelessness Renfrewshire Council’s Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan outlines how people who are homeless will receive stable housing more Page 218 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 8 PUBLIC quickly, experience less time in temporary accommodation and have greater access to up-scaled support. In line with this, the Strategic Housing Investment Plan seeks to assist with the delivery of homes for a range of needs, groups, household types and sizes. This supports the Local Housing Strategy, which specifically prioritises providing housing support to those in need in order to prevent and address homelessness. Renfrewshire Council and Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership are working together to employ the Housing First Initiative to support those with multiple and complex needs, who may experience social exclusion and repeated homelessness. The Housing First Initiative is an important driver of the Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan, delivered by Turning Point Scotland’s Support Workers to provide tenancies along with wrap-around support and assistance to Health and Social Care Services. Renfrewshire Council and registered social landlords operating in the area remain committed to prioritising homeless households. In 2025/26, 56% of new Renfrewshire Council tenancies and 40% of new tenancies allocated by registered social landlords were to homeless households. This includes new tenancies in both new- build and existing homes. All homes are allocated in accordance with the applicant’s housing need and the provider’s allocations policy. Child Poverty Delivering good quality, energy-efficient properties in a range of types and sizes, suitable for families’ needs can play a role in mitigating child poverty, supporting sustainable communities, health, wellbeing and education attainment. This Strategic Housing Investment Plan aligns with the priority actions of Renfrewshire’s Local Child Poverty Action Report, seeking to deliver high quality affordable and accessible housing which will be suitable for families with children. Early conversations with registered social landlord partners about potential new developments look to secure an appropriate mix of house sizes, informed by existing waiting lists. This can include larger homes where there is a need for families or households with children, including addressing the needs of low-income families. An example of meeting family needs is the Gallowhill development by Renfrewshire Council which will deliver 65 new Page 219 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 9 PUBLIC energy-efficient homes providing modern, safe, secure-by-design family accommodation. These will include a range of unit types and sizes, which will help address housing demand for families currently on the waiting list, while the enhanced energy efficiency of the properties will help reduce heating costs, lowering household energy bills. In addition to housing investment, the development includes a new play area for Gallowhill, upgrading the existing facilities at Montgomery Road and providing enhanced recreational space for local children and families. The project has also delivered valuable community benefits through the construction phase, including seven work experience placements for young people aged 14 and over who are currently in full-time education, with a focus on supporting individuals from priority groups. The housing development complements a wider community regeneration activity taking place through the Gallowhill Community Needs Assessment (CNA). Following the assessment, a Community Development Officer was appointed to work alongside residents, build community capacity and support the delivery of community-led priorities. This investment has already resulted in several successful community initiatives. Active Communities established a weekly Friday lunch and drop-in session, which continues to provide a focal point for residents. A range of partner organisations are also supporting residents in Gallowhill. Invest in Renfrewshire operates a weekly parental employability hub, OneRen delivers a family activity programme, and the Family Wellbeing Service is based within Gallowhill Primary School, providing additional support to local families and the Community Development Officer. Key Worker Housing There is currently no policy in place within Renfrewshire regarding key workers accessing affordable housing, and there is no known specific need for key worker housing within the area. The delivery of projects included in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan will provide homes accessible to all households and will be allocated in accordance with the relevant social housing providers’ allocations policy. Refugee Resettlement Renfrewshire Council will continue to work with the Scottish Government and Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) to identify accommodation options which can facilitate resettlement and asylum dispersal programmes. Page 220 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 10 PUBLIC Gypysy/Traveller Provision The Council will continue to assess whether there is a need to allocate land or initiate any projects required to accommodate the Gypsy/Travelling community in Renfrewshire, in accordance with the Scottish Government’s guidance: Improving the lives of Scotland’s Gypsy Travellers 2 Action Plan 2024-26, as published in September 2024. The Council acknowledges the Scottish Government’s decision to manage potential Gypsy/Traveller sites and associated funding allocations alongside the existing Resource Planning Assumption model traditionally used to support settled developments. This will allow for longer term planning and delivery of Gypsy/Traveller sites in Renfrewshire if the need is evident. There are currently no projects specifically for Gypsy/Travellers included in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan, but if the need for accommodation or sites is required in future, then details will be included in subsequent updates. The need for such sites is being investigated via the new Local Development Plan (LDP3) process. Travelling Showperson Provision There are no permanent sites for travelling showpeople in Renfrewshire. Through delivery of the strategic priorities included within the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 and the use of the Scottish Governments Accommodation Needs Toolkit (when available), the Council will identify if there is a need to allocate land to meet the housing needs of Travelling Showpeople with any identified need addressed through the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and associated Delivery Programme. 4. Renfrewshire Council Regeneration and Renewal Programme The Council’s regeneration and renewal programme includes new build Council houses and investment in existing stock. Following the completion of new Council homes in Bishopton, Johnstone and at Ferguslie Park in Paisley, work is progressing at Gallowhill, Paisley where 65 new affordable homes in a range of types and sizes are scheduled to be completed by April 2027, and in Howwood Road, Johnstone, where 130 new Council homes are Page 221 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 11 PUBLIC to be developed across two phases, with all works scheduled to be completed by September 2029. During the lifetime of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan, Renfrewshire Council will continue to deliver new build developments, providing high quality, energy efficient homes for social rent, which will either add to the existing supply or replace current low-demand housing. Plans are currently underway to deliver homes in several areas identified for regeneration. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes these new build council projects, with an expectation that these will be funded by Scottish Government grants as well as the Council’s own investment to provide new homes for social rent. In addition to new build Council homes, there will be investments to improve current stock, with works carried out on the fabric of buildings and environmental improvements. Further details of the Council’s Regeneration and Renewal Programme can be found on the Council’s website: https://www1.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/11742/Housing-led- Regeneration-and-Renewal-Programme 5. Town Centre Living Investment to develop homes in and around Renfrewshire’s town centres is an ambition of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan. Investing in affordable housing contributes to the regeneration of town centres, population growth and contributes to thriving, sustainable communities. Substantial levels of new build homes, of various tenures have been delivered in town centres and there continues to be interest from registered social landlords in opportunities to deliver new affordable homes in and around Paisley Town Centre. Two opportunities are supported by this Strategic Housing Investment Plan: • The former Paisley Grammar School site, which will host 92 new affordable homes, the developer for which has yet to be confirmed. • The site at Lonend, with 66 new affordable homes, to be delivered by Paisley Housing Association. Page 222 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 12 PUBLIC 6. Delivering New Affordable Homes in North and West Renfrewshire As most land in the villages of north and west Renfrewshire is privately owned, it can be difficult to develop affordable housing in these areas. The Council knows that demand in these areas is unsatisfied and that there is a short supply of affordable housing. The Council will continue to explore all avenues to increase the supply of housing in north and west Renfrewshire, working with registered social landlord partners and private developers to provide social housing, either as standalone or mixed tenure private developments. Affordable housing development within Dargavel Village will continue with 138 affordable homes completed to date. Loretto Housing Association are scheduled to complete a 66 more homes in Dargavel Village by March 2027 and a further 16 by the end of 2028. Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association are also set to develop 23 new affordable homes by September 2027 in Dargavel Village. Renfrewshire Council are committed to working with registered social landlords to create more opportunities for social rent in west Renfrewshire, guided by waiting list data and the results of the Renfrewshire Housing Need and Demand study, carried out to inform the latest edition of our Local Housing Strategy. This Strategic Housing Investment Plan identifies an opportunity for 25 affordable houses to be included within the larger market housing development at Barochan Road in Houston. Further opportunities for affordable housing development in the west Renfrewshire villages are identified as long term projects. 7. Tackling the Climate Crisis The changing climate will impact on Renfrewshire’s housing with some residents more vulnerable than others to the effects of climate change. Several measures are being undertaken in accordance with Renfrewshire’s Plan for Net Zero and the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) to address climate change. The Council and registered social landlord partners’ homes are designed to be more energy efficient and projects included as part of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan seek to reduce fuel Page 223 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 13 PUBLIC poverty by maximising opportunities for innovative energy efficient development with greener construction practices within new build developments. The Council supports different methods of construction with recent Council newbuild housing projects being procured as full ‘Design and Build’, enabling contractors to take the most economical approach to construction whilst delivering an exemplary specification in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability. The Council would also be open to exploring modern methods of construction such as modular homes in certain circumstances. 8. Bringing Empty Homes Back into use The Council’s ‘More Homes Officer’ works with owners to bring long-term empty properties back in to use. In the last three years, the More Homes Officer has played an important role in bringing 53 homes back into effective use in various sectors through direct engagement with the owners. The More Homes Officer provides advice and assistance as well as managing the Council’s activity in the buy-back and acquisition scheme, where the Council buy properties from the open market to be added to our stock for social rent. 9. The Scottish Government’s Housing Programme The Scottish Government’s ‘Housing to 2040’ publication declares an ambition to increase affordable homes by 110,000 nationally by 2032 and make at least 70% of these available for social rent. This Strategic Housing Investment Plan sets out a programme of delivery which will contribute towards this locally. Since 2021, when Housing to 2040 was published, over 900 new affordable homes have been completed across Renfrewshire – details of which can be found in Appendix 2. In 2024 a national housing emergency was declared by the Scottish Government due to an extensive variety of issues in the housing sector, such as unprecedented demand facing homelessness services, extensive use of temporary accommodation, an insufficient supply of affordable homes and continually growing waiting lists. Page 224 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 14 PUBLIC Renfrewshire Council will continue to take actions to assist with the national emergency and the ambition to deliver increased affordable housing. The Council will collaborate with the Scottish Government, registered social landlords, private developers and the construction industry to deliver more affordable homes, utilising available resources. 10. Resources for the delivery of affordable housing The funding allocation for supporting additional affordable housing in Renfrewshire in 2026/27 is £19.171 million which is an increase from £17.486 million in 2025/26. The Scottish Government have also confirmed a return to multi- year Resource Planning Assumptions, with allocations confirmed until 2029/2030. This allows the Council greater certainty to plan the delivery of longer-term projects. For the coming years, our Resource Planning Assumptions are as follows: • 2027/28: £19.747m • 2028/29: £20.339m • 2029/30: £20.949m To allow the Council to programme for beyond 2029/2030, Renfrewshire Council operates on the assumption that a Resource Planning Assumption of £15m per annum will be available to support the delivery of new affordable homes in Renfrewshire. Developers also contribute towards affordable housing through Policy 16 of the National Planning Framework which requires proposals for market homes to include provision of 25% affordable homes. In applying this policy, the Council has regard to Policy P3 of the Renfrewshire Local Development Plan and applies the requirement to proposals of 50 or more dwellings. Scottish Government Benchmarks Projects included in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan are funded through a mixture of Scottish Government grant funding and the developers’ own resources. Grant funding is issued in accordance with benchmark rates for each home developed. In 2026/27, the Scottish Government benchmark rates to develop a 3 person new build home for social rent within Renfrewshire Page 225 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 15 PUBLIC increased and are now set at £91,800 for the Council and £100,145 for registered social landlords’ homes. Depending on circumstances and Scottish Government approval, funding may be awarded at above benchmark rates, however where affordable homes for social rent are being delivered as part of a larger private sector development of market homes, these must be delivered at benchmark rates. Funding additional design features New build housing may be funded at a level above the benchmark grant, to facilitate specific features being included, or standards being met in new affordable homes, such as: • Adherence to the Silver Level of the 2019 Building Regulations in respect of Energy for Space Heating. • Balconies for flatted properties, where the development’s limitations remove the possibility of other communal or private outdoor spaces. • Space to facilitate home working or studying, where it is not possible to incorporate such space within the design of the homes under the current space standards. • Digitally enabled homes, where tenants can arrange an internet connection to be set up without the service provider having to install additional cabling to the premises. • The installation of ducting infrastructure for electric vehicle charge point connectors. • Installation of electric vehicle charge points. • The installation of automatic fire suppression systems; and • Installation of heating systems which produce zero direct emissions at the point of use. As the additional grant funding to enable these features comes from the Scottish Government allocation, this means that such developments can be more expensive than they otherwise would be. The consequence of this is that may utilise more of the available funding and can leave fewer funds available to support other developments, possibly reducing the number of affordable homes which can be delivered overall. Funding for Acquisition of Private Housing (Rental Off the Shelf) and the National Acquisition Programme In previous years, the Strategic Housing Investment Plan has included opportunities for affordable housing providers to use Scottish Government grant funding to purchase homes from the open market, which can be used for social rent. Page 226 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 16 PUBLIC The Scottish Government’s National Acquisition Programme has made funding available, which Renfrewshire Council have accessed and made available for use alongside the Resource Planning Assumption to support the purchase of properties for use as social housing. For 2026/27, £2 million has been allocated as available to support the acquisition of suitable homes for rent on the open market with plans to allocate £1.5 million each year thereafter, subject to the resources available. Scottish Government Charitable Bond Funding (Allia) As well as the funding available to Renfrewshire from the confirmed Resource Planning Assumption for 2026/27, some projects have previously utilised Allia funding, which derives from the Scottish Government’s Charitable Bonds investment programme, managed by Allia, a social investment charity. The annual income from the bonds is used by More Homes Scotland to enable affordable housing providers to increase their supply of homes by providing them with grants to support projects which meet a certain set of criteria. Link/C~urb have accessed this fund to support their development of 68 homes for social rent at Johnstone Castle, which are scheduled for completion in August 2026. Council Tax and Empty Second Homes In Renfrewshire, none of the revenue generated from empty or second homes is allocated to the affordable housing programme; this money is instead allocated to the Council’s General Fund and used to deliver wider Council priorities. Housing Infrastructure Fund Councils and registered social landlords can access additional funding where the provision of infrastructure to support the development would be too costly thus preventing the site from being suitable for inclusion in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. This fund has previously been accessed for a number of projects in Renfrewshire, and it remains an option to be accessed when required. Currently, no developer is looking to access the Housing Infrastructure Fund for any proposed developments although, subject to the outcome of site investigations, this may change. Page 227 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 17 PUBLIC Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme No project within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan is currently accessing the Scottish Government’s Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme. 11. Project Management and Project Prioritisation The Strategic Housing Investment Plan is split into 3 groups; core projects, shadow projects and longer-term projects. The projects within each group are shown in Appendix 3. Priority given to a project depends on the availability of Scottish Government grant funding, and other factors such as site deliverability, land ownership, planning status, cost effectiveness and the demand in the area for the proposed site. Projects included within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan are delivered as funding is made available. The schedule for delivery relies on continued funding allocations from the Scottish Government and the developer’s own ability to deliver the site. The core projects are either underway already or the work will begin on site soon, with the site investigation works having completed already. For the majority of shadow and longer term projects, site investigation and design and costing work has still to take place, the findings from which will inform the projects’ viability. Monitoring Project Progress Project delivery and the effective use of allocated resources are monitored by the Council. This involves the Council being in regular dialogue with registered social landlord partners regarding specific projects and quarterly tripartite meeting between the Council, individual registered social landlord partners and the Scottish Government. There are also regular internal officer meetings to review the overall delivery of the programme informed by monthly updates from developers on their projects. Equalities The Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027-32 delivers housing for a broad variety of needs groups, such as housing for older people and those with physical disabilities. Page 228 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 18 PUBLIC Consultation with the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership, has sought to ensure that projects understand the requirements and deliver housing suitable for the specific and diverse needs of Renfrewshire’s households. An Equality and Human Rights Impact Assessment of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan has been prepared in order to understand the likely or actual impact it will have on people, including those with protected characteristics, and to identify possible opportunities to promote equality. This assessment did not identify any potentially negative effects Page 229 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 19 PUBLIC Appendix 1: Renfrewshire Affordable Housing Project Updates 1A: Projects completed in financial year 2025/26 Development Units Status Comment Hawkhead, Paisley 30 Completed May 2025 30 new social rented homes delivered by Link Group/C~urb Housing Association which add to the addordable housing supply in Paisley. The project completed in May 2025. Property sizes included 30 x 2 bed properties. West End - Sutherland Street, Paisley 35 Completed June 2025 35 new social rented homes delivered by Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association that add to the affordable housing supply in Paisley. The project completed in June 2025. Property sizes included 28 x 2 bed properties and 7 x 3 bed properties. Cartha Crescent, Paisley 33 Completed July 2025 33 new social rented homes delivered by Williamsburgh Housing Association that add to the affordable housing supply in Paisley. The project completed in July 2025. Property sizes included 12 x 2 bed and 21 x 3 bed properties. Page 230 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 20 PUBLIC 1B: Projects currently on site or due to start on site in 2026/27 Development Units Status Comment Johnstone Castle Phase II 68 On-site, due for completion September 2026. 68 Social rented homes by Link/C~urb Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Johnstone. The development is expected to complete in August 2026. Property sizes include 40x 2 bedroom and 28x 3 bedroom properties. Orchard Street/Causeyside Street (HRA), Paisley 50 On-site, due for completion February 2027. 50 Social rented homes by Paisley Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Paisley town centre. The development is expected to complete in february 2027. Property sizes include 37x 1 bedroom and 13x 2 bedroom properties. Gallowhill, Paisley 65 On-site, due for completion April 2027. 65 Social rented homes by Renfrewshire Council which will add to the affordable housing supply in Paisley. The development is expected to complete in April 2027. Properties include 9x 1 bedroom, 23x 2 bedroom, 26x 3 bedroom and 7x 4+ bedroom properties. Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 1 of 2) 70 On-site, due for completion March 2027. 70 Social rented homes by Renfrewshire Council which will add to the affordable housing supply in Johnstone. The development is expected to complete in March 2027. Properties include 11x 1 bedroom, 26x 2 bedroom, 19x 3 bedroom and 14x 4+ bedroom properties. Bishopton Phase 3A 46 On-site, due for completion October 2026. 46 Social rented homes by Loretto Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Johnstone. The development is expected to complete in December 2026. Properties include 12x 1 bedroom, 27x 2 bedroom and 7x 3 bedroom properties. Bishopton Phase 4 20 On-site, due for completion February 2027. 16 Social rented homes by Loretto Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Bishopton. The development is expected to complete in December 2026. Properties include 8x 1 bedroom, 8x 2 bedroom and 4x 3 bedroom properties. Page 231 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 21 PUBLIC Bishopton Phase 5 23 On-site, due for completion June 2027. 23 Social rented homes by Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Bishopton. Estimated to be on site, September 2026, with completion in September 2027. Properties include 23x 2 bedroom properties. Flourish Road, Erskine 18 Off-site. Due to start on site December 2026. 18 amenity homes for older people by Bridgewater Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Erskine. Estimated to be on site, September 2026, with completion in February 2028. Properties include 18x 1 bedroom properties. Rannoch Road, Johnstone 36 Off-site. Due to start on site December 2026. 36 Social rented homes by Loretto Housing Association which will add to the affordable housing supply in Johnstone. Estimated to be on site, December 2026, with completion in June 2028. Properties include 36x 2 bedroom properties. Broomlands & Carbrook Street, Paisley 43 Off-site. Due to start on site January 2027. 43 Social rented homes by Renfrewshire Council which will add to the affordable housing supply in Johnstone. Estimated to be on site, January 2027, with completion in February 2028. Properties include 43x 2 bedroom properties. Springbank, Paisley (Phase 1 of 2) 65 Off-site. Due to start on site January 2027. 65 Social rented homes by Renfrewshire Council which will add to the affordable housing supply in Paisley. Estimated to be on site, January 2027, with completion in February 2028. Properties include 65x 2 bedroom properties. Foxbar Rivers, Paisley (Benchmark) 45 Off-site. Due to start on site January 2027. 45 Social rented homes by Renfrewshire Council which will add to the affordable housing supply in Paisley. Estimated to be on site, January 2027, with completion in February 2028. Property sizes still to be confirmed. Page 232 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 22 PUBLIC 1C: Projects expected to start on site in 2027/28, later or when a projected site start date has still to be confirmed. Development Units Status Comment West End - Remaining Sites 120 Off-site. Due to start on site in period 2027/28 Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association are workign towards delivering 120 new homes in the West End of Paisley. Property sizes to be confirmed. Bishopton Phase 3B 16 Off-site. Due to start on site in October 2027. Loretto Housing Association are expecting to be on-site from October 2027 with 16 homes completed by the following August. Property sizes include 16x 2 bedroom properties. Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 2 of 2) 60 Off-site. Due to start on site around January 2028. Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Plans are underway to deliver around 60 new Council homes in the second phase of development in the Howwood Road Area of Johnstone. Property sizes include 60x 2 bedroom properties. Thrushcraigs, Paisley 50 Off-site. Due to start on site around July 2027. Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Plans are underway to deliver around 50 new Council homes in the second phase of development in the Thrushcraigs area of Paisley. Property sizes include 50x 2 bedroom properties. Springbank, Paisley 35 Off-site. Due to start on site around January 2030. Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Plans are underway to deliver around 35 new Council homes in the second phase of development in the Springbank area of Paisley. Property sizes to be confirmed. Barochan Road (Houston) 25 Off-site. Start date tbc. It remains Paisley Housing Association's intention to construct 25 homes on this site in Houston. Property sizes to be confirmed. West Renfrewshire Villages 41 Off-site. Start date tbc. Two sites with an opportunity to develop a total of 41 homes in Lochwinnoch and Kilbarachan. Arrangements involving an RSL and Developer are yet to be confirmed for both. Property sizes to be confirmed. Page 233 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 23 PUBLIC Gibson Crescent/North Road 28 Off-site. Start date tbc. Options are being explored for this social rented development of around 28 social rented homes by Williamsburgh Housing Association in Johnstone. Property sizes include 28x 2 bedroom properties. Stirling Drive, Linwood 65 Off-site. Due to start on site around April 2027. Options are being explored for this social rented development of around 65 homes by Linstone Housing Association that will add to the affordable housing supply in Linwood. Property sizes still to be confirmed. Ryefield, Johnstone 36 Off-site. Due to start on site around April 2029. Options are being explored for this social rented development of approximately 36 homes by Linstone Housing Association in Johnstone. Property sizes include 28x 2 bedroom properties and 8x 1 bedroom properties. Garthland Lane, Paisley 32 Off-site. Start date tbc. This social rented development of around 32 homes by Renfrewshire Council will add to the affordable housing supply in central Paisley. Property sizes include 32x 2 bedroom properties. Foxbar Rivers, Paisley (RSL) 71 Off-site. Start date tbc. Paisley Housing Association's social rented development of around 71 homes will add to the affordable housing supply in the Foxbar area of Paisley and bring vacant sites back in to use. Property sizes still to be confirmed. MacDowall Street, Johnstone 35 Off-site. Start date tbc. Options are being explored for this social rented development of approximately 35 homes by Paisley Housing Association in Johnstone. Property sizes include 35x 2 bedroom properties. Westburn Ave/Blackstoun Rd, Paisley 22 Off-site. Start date tbc. Renfrewshire Council continue to assess the possibility of bringing this vacant site in Ferguslie Park back into use, as host to 22 new socially rented homes. Property sizes include 22x 2 bedroom properties. Page 234 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 24 PUBLIC Almond Crescent, Foxbar, Paisley 40 Off-site. Due to start on site around February 2029. Subject to board approval, Paisley Housing Association are intending on building 40 homes on this site in the Foxbar area of Paisley. Property sizes still to be confirmed. Paisley Grammar (former school site) 92 Off-site. Start date tbc. Subject to board approval, there will be an opportunity for a registered social landlord to construct 92 homes on this site in Paisley. Nethercraigs Drive, Paisley 28 Off-site. Due to start on site around April 2027. Subject to board approval, Link Group/C~urb Housing Association are intending on building 28 homes on this site in the Glenburn area of Paisley. Property sizes still to be confirmed. Lonend Paisley 66 Off-site. Start date tbc. Subject to board approval, Paisley Housing Association are intending on building 66 homes on this site near the centre of Paisley. Property sizes still to be confirmed. Page 235 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 25 PUBLIC Appendix 2 Completions between 2021 and 2025 & Estimated Completions 2026/27 2021/22 Renfrewshire Council Johnstone Castle, Johnstone 4x 1 Bed, 67x2 Bed, 20x 3 Bed, 4x 4+ Beds 95 Link Group Amochrie Road, Foxbar, Paisley 34x 2 Bed, 2x 3 Bed 36 Link Group Thrushcraigs Phase II (St Ninians), Paisley 12x 2 Bed, 11x 3 Bed 23 Paisley HA Westerfield House, Paisley 16x 1 Bed 16 170 2022/23 Sanctuary/Paisley HA Glenburn, Paisley 8x 1 Bed, 73x 2 Bed, 50x 3 Bed 131 Link Group Millarston, Paisley 16x 1 Bed, 62x 2 Bed, 2x 3 Bed, 19x 4+ Beds 99 Renfrewshire Council Auchengreoch Road, Johnstone 8x 1 Bed, 17x 2 Bed, 12x 3 Bed, 2x 4+ Beds 39 Loretto Bishopton Phase II 12x 1 Bed, 14x 2 Bed, 32x 3 Bed 58 Williamsburgh HA Albert Road, Renfrew 13x 2 Bed, 29x 3 Bed 42 369 2023/24 Renfrewshire Council Ferguslie Park, Paisley 22x 1 Bed, 67x 2 Bed, 10x 3 Bed, 2x 4+ Beds 101 Link Group Abbey Quarter Phase 4 (AQP4), Paisley 10x 1 Bed, 71x 2 Bed 81 Link Group Woodend House, Houston 14x 2 Bed 14 196 2024/25 Sanctuary Napier Street, Linwood 37x 2 Bed, 14x 3 Bed 51 Loretto East Lane, Paisley Town Centre 16x 1 Bed, 28x 2 Bed 48 Link Group/C~urb Hawkhead, Paisley (New Build ROTS) 5x 3 Bed 5 104 2025/26 Link Group/C~urb Hawkhead, Paisley 30x 2 Bed 30 Sanctuary Scotland West End - Sutherland Street, Paisley 28x 2 bed, 7x 3 Bed 35 Williamsburgh HA Cartha Crescent, Paisley 12x 2 Bed, 21x 3 Bed 33 98 937 Page 236 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 26 PUBLIC 2026/27 Estimated Completions Link Group/C~urb Johnstone Castle Phase II 40x 2 Bed, 28x 3 Bed 68 Paisley HA Orchard Street/Causeyside Street (HRA), Paisley 37x 1 Bed, 13x 2 Bed 50 Renfrewshire Council Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 1 of 2) 11x 1 Bed, 26x 2 Bed, 19x 3 Bed, 14 x 4+ Bed 70 Loretto HA Bishopton Phase 3A 12x 1 Bed, 27 x2 Bed, 7x 3 Bed 46 Loretto HA Bishopton Phase 4 8x 1 Bed, 8x 2 Bed, 4x 3 Bed 16 250 Page 237 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 27 PUBLIC Appendix 3a Affordable Housing Projects 2027-2032 Estimated Grant Req Core Projects Home s Total Est Grant Req (£M) Spend before 31st March 2027 (Yr 1) 2027/2 8 (Yr 2) 2028/2 9 (Yrs 3- 5) 2029/3 0 - 2031/3 2 (Yrs 6+) 2032/3 3 & Beyond Johnstone Castle Phase II (Allia Funded) 68 £1.864 £1.864 N/A £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Orchard St/Causeyside St (HRA) 50 £6.280 £6.280 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 1 of 2) 70 £10.43 1 £10.43 1 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Gallowhill, Paisley 65 £9.634 £9.634 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Bishopton Phase 3A 46 £5.475 £5.475 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 West End - Remaining Sites 120 £12.01 7 £6.841 £2.588 £2.588 £0.000 £0.000 Phase 4, Bishopton 20 £2.125 £2.125 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Bishopton Phase 3B 16 £1.602 £0.000 £1.602 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Springbank, Paisley (Phase 1 of 2) 65 £5.967 £1.415 £0.761 £1.830 £1.961 £0.000 Page 238 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 28 PUBLIC Foxbar Rivers, Paisley (RC) 45 £4.131 £0.050 £0.682 £1.131 £2.268 £0.000 Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 2 of 2) 60 £5.508 £0.444 £0.500 £1.242 £3.322 £0.000 Thrushcraigs, Paisley 50 £4.590 £0.119 £0.550 £1.500 £2.421 £0.000 Flourish Road, Erskine, Older Person's Housing Reprovisioning 18 £2.242 £0.620 £1.622 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Phase 5, Bishopton 23 £2.500 £2.500 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 Lonend Paisley 66 £6.710 £0.000 £3.355 £3.355 £0.000 £0.000 ROTS Open Market Acquisitions Initiative tbc £13.35 1 £4.351 £1.500 £1.500 £4.500 £1.500 Rannoch Road, Johnstone 36 £3.605 £0.605 £2.300 £0.700 £0.000 £0.000 818 £98.03 2 £52.75 4 £15.460 £13.846 £14.472 £1.500 Page 239 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 29 PUBLIC Appendix 3b Affordable Housing Projects 2027-2032 Estimated Grant Req Shadow Projects Homes Total Est Grant Req (£M) Spend before 31st March 2027 (Yr 1) 2027/28 (Yr 2) 2028/29 (Yrs 3-5) 2029/30 - 2031/32 (Yrs 6+) 2032/33& Beyond Springbank, Paisley (Phase 2 of 2) 35 £3.213 £0.151 £0.000 £0.000 £3.062 £0.000 Foxbar Rivers, Paisley (RSL) 71 £7.110 £0.900 £0.000 £0.000 £6.210 £0.000 Barochan Road Houston (S75) 25 £2.504 £0.000 £1.000 £1.504 £0.000 £0.000 West Renfrewshire Villages (S75) (2 Sites) 41 £4.106 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £4.106 £0.000 Broomlands & Carbrook Street, Paisley 43 £6.130 £0.525 £0.000 £2.000 £3.605 £0.000 Gibson Crescent/North Road, Johnstone 28 £2.804 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £2.804 £0.000 Stirling Drive, Linwood 65 £10.818 £0.874 £5.000 £4.944 £0.000 £0.000 Nethercraigs Drive, Paisley 28 £2.804 £0.500 £1.402 £0.902 £0.000 £0.000 Ryefield, Johnstone 36 £5.983 £0.150 £0.000 £0.000 £5.833 £0.000 Garthland Lane, Paisley 32 £3.033 £0.225 £0.000 £0.000 £2.808 £0.000 Paisley Grammar (former school site), Paisley 92 £9.213 £0.000 £3.000 £3.000 £3.213 £0.000 Almond Crescent, Foxbar, Paisley 40 £4.006 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £4.006 £0.000 536 £61.724 £3.325 £10.402 £12.350 £35.647 £0.000 Page 240 of 366
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Draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2027 to 2032 30 PUBLIC Appendix 3c Affordable Housing Projects 2027-2032 Estimated Grant Req Longer Term Projects Homes Total Est Grant Req (£M) Spend before 31st March 2027 (Yr 1) 2027/28 (Yr 2) 2028/29 (Yrs 3-5) 2029/30 - 2031/32 (Yrs 6+) 2032/33& Beyond MacDowall Street, Johnstone 35 £3.505 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £3.505 £0.000 Westburn Ave/Blackstoun Rd, Ferguslie Park 22 £2.020 £0.143 £0.000 £0.000 £1.877 £0.000 Supported Housing, Paisley (Site tbc) 14 £1.402 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £0.000 £1.402 West Ren Villages Opportunities tbc tbc £0.000 tbc tbc tbc tbc North Ren Villages Opportunities tbc tbc £0.000 tbc tbc tbc tbc 71 £6.927 £0.143 £0.000 £0.000 £5.382 £1.402 Page 241 of 366
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31 PUBLIC Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR Page 242 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 __________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Regulation of Social Housing: Assurance Statement 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The Council is required to submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator by 31 October 2026 demonstrating compliance with the regulatory requirements for local authorities and Registered Social Landlords (RSLs). 1.2 Appendix 1 lists the requirements as set out in Chapter 3 of the Scottish Housing Regulator’s Regulatory Framework and provides evidence to demonstrate Renfrewshire Council’s compliance. As Members are aware, regular reports are presented to the Policy Board on housing services performance and benchmarking. These reports demonstrate continuing strong performance across most areas of the housing service in 2025/26 and also highlight some areas for improvement. 1.3 The proposed Annual Assurance Statement 2026 for Renfrewshire Council is attached at Appendix 2 for approval by the Policy Board. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Notes the Regulatory Requirements and evidence of Renfrewshire Council’s compliance as set out in Appendix 1. 2.2 Approves Renfrewshire Council’s Annual Assurance Statement 2025 for submission to the Scottish Housing Regulator as attached in Appendix 2. ___________________________________________________________________ Item 11 Page 243 of 366
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PUBLIC 3. Background 3.1 All social landlords are required to prepare and submit an Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator each year. The first Annual Assurance Statement from Renfrewshire Council was approved by the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board and submitted to the Scottish Housing Regulator in October 2019, with subsequent statements being submitted annually thereafter. 3.2 The regulatory requirements for all social landlords include: • Meeting all duties, obligations and responsibilities placed on landlords by legislation and through statutory guidance. • Achieving the standards and outcomes in the Scottish Social Housing Charter. • Duties to help people who are homeless, including a statutory duty to prevent and alleviate homelessness. • Duties relating to the safety of tenants’ homes and promoting equality and human rights. • Meeting the requirements and adhering to relevant guidance from other regulatory bodies; and • Adhering to statutory guidance from the Scottish Housing Regulator and taking account of regulatory advice. 3.3 The Scottish Housing Regulator lists the regulatory requirements for local authorities under five headings in its Regulatory Framework. Appendix 1, which is attached to this report, shows how Renfrewshire Council meets each of these requirements and gives details of current evidence which demonstrates compliance. 1. Assurance and notification 2. Scottish Social Housing Charter performance 3. Tenants and service user’s redress 4. Whistleblowing 5. Equality and Human Rights 3.4 Arrangements are in place to report regularly to the Policy Board on a range of matters relevant to the above requirements. This includes tenant and resident engagement, service improvement planning, service performance and financial and risk management. Where appropriate, these reports address areas for improvement as well as highlighting areas where the service is performing well. The normal annual cycle of reports is detailed in the table below: Page 244 of 366
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PUBLIC Table 1. Annual Cycle of Reports Subject Month Homelessness: Annual Benchmarking Report January Housing Revenue Account Budget and Rent Levels (report to Council) February/March Renfrewshire Common Housing Allocation Policy – Council Allocation Targets March Renfrewshire Council Tenant Participation Strategy – Update March 3-year Service Improvement Plan May Housing Landlord Compliance – Bi-annual Performance Report May & October Annual Return on the Charter (and management information on allocations, repairs, homelessness and May Private Sector Housing Grant Investment Programme May Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire August Regulation of Social Housing: Assurance Statement August Housing Asset Management Strategy Action Plan October Service Improvement Plan Mid-Year Monitoring October Charter Half Year Update (and management information on allocations, repairs, homelessness and rent collection) October Homelessness and Housing Support Every second cycle Budget reports (including Housing Revenue Account) 5 reports in the year Service Update report Each cycle Performance 3.5 Performance against the Scottish Social Housing Charter Indicators was reported to Board in May. The Charter data for 2025/26 displayed improved or stable performance in most indicators. Of the 26 indicators where performance can be compared with last year, the majority – seventeen - have improved, seven remain unchanged and two have dipped slightly in performance. Five new indicators were reported on for the first time this year. 3.6 As reported to Board on 19 May 2026, this year’s ARC return saw significant improvements achieved across key housing services, including faster turnaround of empty homes, reducing rent loss, improvements in repairs performance and satisfaction, adaptations delivered more quickly, reducing waiting times for tenants, and improvement in rent arrears management. Page 245 of 366
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PUBLIC Engagement with Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) 3.7 The Scottish Housing Regulator’s Engagement Plan for 2026/2027 noted that Renfrewshire Council is operating in an increasingly difficult environment for delivering homelessness services, with national data and local engagement indicating a heightened risk that demand may soon exceed capacity. This aligns with concerns highlighted in the Scottish Housing Regulator’s December 2023 update, which identified systemic risks across Scotland that has impacted several local authorities. 3.8 In line with the Engagement Plan, the Council provides the Regulator with required information on its homelessness services, continues its best efforts to meet statutory duties - including the provision of suitable temporary accommodation under the Unsuitable Accommodation Order - and keeps the Regulator informed about its capacity to meet these obligations through quarterly meetings during 2026/27. 3.9 A comprehensive Homelessness Action Plan for Renfrewshire covering the period 2026 - 2028 has been approved by the Policy Board which details the broad range of tasks / actions that are required across housing options, temporary accommodation, homeless prevention and service development 3.10 We have strengthened our approach to tenant and resident safety, we have developed an asbestos management plan, training for staff has been provided and all members of the Communities and Housing Policy Board were offered training on asbestos earlier in the year. Tenant & Resident Safety, Compliance 3.11 Renfrewshire Council takes tenant and resident safety seriously. There have been no gas certification failures since April 2026, no water safety incidents, and no lift safety issues reported. Electrical safety compliance stands at 99%, with work ongoing to address the small number of outstanding properties. Fire risk assessments continue to be completed and reviewed in line with programme requirements, while an asbestos action plan remains in place with external support helping to progress additional workload. Positive progress continues in dealing with damp and mould, with 107 cases resolved by the end of June 2026. The overall average to resolve cases of damp and mould (including more complex structural cases) is 40.3 days. This demonstrates the Council's commitment to addressing issues thoroughly. There are 72 cases currently under investigation highlighting proactive case management to improve property conditions and support tenant health and wellbeing. A Housing Landlord Compliance team has been in place since 2023; a comprehensive Landlord Compliance Strategy was developed and policies for all compliance matters produced. The Damp and Mould Policy is being presented to the same Board as this report. As well as Bi-annual compliance reports the Board receives updates on progress with tackling reports of dampness and mould and other compliance matters within the Service Update reports which are presented each cycle. Page 246 of 366
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PUBLIC An Asbestos Awareness session was held for policy board members on 10th February 2026. This informative session, delivered by Professor Roger Willey, Managing Director of ACS Risk Group and a globally recognised authority on asbestos risk management, provided essential insights into: • The background and historical context of asbestos use • Health risks and associated diseases • The legal duty to manage asbestos • How Renfrewshire Council Housing Services is managing asbestos compliance Asset Management 3.12 This year, the SHR are asking landlords to provide specific assurance on two areas: • Data on homes. • Compliance with the Scottish Government’s minimum site standards for Gypsy/Traveller sites. Renfrewshire Council does not have any Gypsy/Traveller sites so there is no requirement for the Council in this area. Regarding data on homes, the Council has robust procedures in place ensure that our Housing Asset Management data is comprehensive, up-to-date, and continuously reviewed. Our work is guided by our current Asset Management Strategy (2025-30), and its associated Action Plan, which were approved by the Policy Board in October 2025. Our data is stored on a Housing Asset Management Software System (Apex). Apex contains all our homes with data on type, form, construction and identified by archetypes. Each home and block on the system contain attributes and characteristic data on individual components/elements, with their install date, required replacement date and associated costs. The Apex system will be replaced in 2027, with the implementation of the new Housing Management System (NEC) which includes asset management as one of its core functions. This will include all HRA owned assets, including homes, commercial properties, lock-ups and launderettes. The introduction of the new software will allow all data in relation to housing services, including repairs and asset management, to be held on the one system. The new system will also allow us to display our asset management data within an integrated geographic information system and incorporate data from our environmental sensors. It also includes new features such as an integrated Asset Performance Review module, providing strategic assessments of our stock in keeping with the SHRs integrated asset management guidance. Page 247 of 366
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PUBLIC Equalities and Human Rights 3.13 On Equalities and Human Rights, we can provide assurance that we comply with all regulatory requirements and standards, including the requirement on equalities and human rights. Section 5 of Appendix 1 provides full details of our approach and how we comply and adapt service to meet these requirements. 3.14 Social landlords are required to advise the Scottish Housing Regulator of any material changes to Council’s Annual Assurance Statement during the year. Members should note that there were no material changes to our Assurance Statement last year. __________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – Providing housing and homelessness services which meet regulatory standards. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights – (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None. 12. Climate Risk – None. 13. Children’s Rights – None. Page 248 of 366
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PUBLIC 14. Cosla Policy Position – None. ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers Report to Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 15 January 2019 – Regulation of Social Housing – Response to Consultation by The Scottish Housing Regulator. Report to Communities and Housing Policy Board on 19 August 2025 – Regulation of Social Housing: Assurance Statement 2025. Report to Communities and Housing Policy Board on 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan The foregoing background paper will be retained within the Housing Service for inspection by the public for the prescribed period of four years from the date of the meeting. The contact officer within the service is Paul McLean, Housing Lead Officer, Policy Performance and Participation 0141-487 2183, e-mail paul.mclean@renfrewshire.gov.uk ___________________________________________________________________ Attachment(s): Appendix 1: Regulation of Social Housing Assurance Statement Appendix 2: Renfrewshire Council Assurance Statement 2026 Author: Paul McLean, Housing Lead Officer Email: paul.mclean@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 249 of 366
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PUBLIC ANNUAL ASSURANCE STATEMENT 2026 APPENDIX 1 Page 250 of 366
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2 PUBLIC Checklist of Regulatory Requirements/Standards 1. Assurance and Notification AN1 Prepare an Annual Assurance Statement in accordance with SHR published guidance, submit it to the SHR between April and the end of October each year, and make it available to tenants and other service users. How We Comply Evidence Account has been taken of the SHR’s guidance on Annual Assurance Statements in preparing this report. Some areas for improvement have been identified, and these are detailed within this report and in other reports to the Policy Board. All Annual Assurance Statements have been approved by Policy Board since 2019 and submitted to the SHR thereafter, with the SHR providing feedback as appropriate. The 2026 Annual Assurance Statement was discussed with the Tenant representatives at the joint tenant meeting held on 25 June 2026. A briefing session and presentation on the Annual Assurance Statement 2026 was provided to members of the Policy Board. Following Board approval, the Annual Assurance Statement 2026 will be available to tenants and other service users with a link to the Council’s website. CAH Policy Board Report 18 August 2026– Regulation of Social Housing Assurance Statement Updated Guidance on Regulatory Framework from SHR Published February 2024 Scottish Housing Regulator Engagement Plan 2026-2027 CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Note of meeting with tenant representatives (25 June 2026) Annual Assurance Statement Presentation to members of the Policy Board 18 August 2026. Page 251 of 366
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3 PUBLIC AN2 Notify the SHR during the year of any material changes to the assurance in the Council’s Assurance Statement. How We Comply Evidence There were no material changes to the Council’s Assurance Statement for 2025. If there are any material changes for the Assurance Statement 2026, we will advise the SHR and the Communities and Housing Policy Board. To accommodate this during the year we provide a number of reports: • Annual report to the Charter was presented to the Communities and Housing Board in May 2026 noting performance in gas safety certification and electrical and smoke detector performance • Housing Bi-annual Compliance Report • Service Update reports, each cycle CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan CAH Policy Board Report 18 August 2026– Regulation of Social Housing Assurance Statement CHA Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 – Housing Bi-annual compliance report Service Update Reports to each meeting of the Communities and Housing Policy Board Page 252 of 366
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4 PUBLIC AN3 Have assurance and evidence that the Council is meeting all its legal obligations associated with housing and homelessness services, equality and human rights, and tenant and resident safety How We Comply Evidence Customer Engagement and Service Improvement We continue to engage with customers to review the strategic priorities of the Local Housing Strategy 2023–2028. When developing new policies or procedures, officers consult with Legal Services to ensure legal compliance, with key issues highlighted for Elected Members. In line with the Tenant Participation Strategy, tenants are consulted on all major policy decisions Performance across housing services is regularly monitored and benchmarked, both over time and against other social landlords. This helps identify areas for improvement, which are then addressed as part of our commitment to continuous service enhancement. Council and Housing Strategies, Plans, Policies and Procedures. Service Update Reports to the Communities and Housing Policy Board. Each cycle since January 2024. Local Housing Strategy– Update, CAH Policy Board Report 31 October 2023 Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 – Year Two (2024/25) Progress Update CAH Policy Board, 28 October 2025 Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Tenant Participation Strategy – Update – CAH Policy Board 10 March 2026 CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Page 253 of 366
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5 PUBLIC AN3 Have assurance and evidence that the Council is meeting all its legal obligations associated with housing and homelessness services, equality and human rights, and tenant and resident safety How We Comply Evidence Homelessness and Access to Housing • Temporary Accommodation: The number of furnished temporary accommodation units has now increased to 303, including Council, RSL, and Supported Accommodation. B&B use is a last resort, and we had 30 single person households staying in local hotels at end of June 2026. • Housing First: The Council continues to support vulnerable individuals through the Housing First approach, using the Housing Support and RRTP budget effectively. • Service Planning: A comprehensive Homelessness Action Plan for Renfrewshire covering 2026-2028 has been developed which details the broad range of tasks / actions that are required across housing options, temporary accommodation, homeless prevention and service development. • Housing Options Toolkit: Promotes person-centred service delivery, staff consistency, and awareness of support resources. • Allocations: The Common Housing Allocation Policy ensures fair access to housing, with targets and outcomes reviewed annually by the Policy Board. Target of 55% of general Council lets to homeless applicants was achieved in 2025/26, and the same target has been approved for 2026/27. Renfrewshire Common Housing Allocation Policy CAH Report -Renfrewshire Common Housing Allocation Policy - Council Housing Allocation Targets for 2026/2027, 10 March 2026 Homelessness Action Plan for Renfrewshire 2026 - 2028 approved by Communities & Housing Policy Board in May 2026, and subsequently shared with all other social housing providers in Renfrewshire Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2025-2028 (outturn report) Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Service Update Reports (Each Cycle) Page 254 of 366
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6 PUBLIC AN3 Have assurance and evidence that the Council is meeting all its legal obligations associated with housing and homelessness services, equality and human rights, and tenant and resident safety How We Comply Evidence • Tenant Support Fund (TSF): Provides financial relief to tenants in hardship, helping to prevent rent arrears and sustain tenancies. • Unsuitable accommodation. The position at mid-July is that of the 322 households in temporary accommodation 20 are in breach the unsuitable accommodation order. • Failure to offer temporary accommodation since our last reported figure of 8 failures in April 2026 there have been zero failures to offer accommodation since April up to mid- July. Tenant Support Fund Policy Equalities & Human Rights We continue to collect and analyse data on new and existing tenants to provide a better understanding of the needs and requirements for all equality groups. Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Housing Options Application Form • Tenant & Resident Safety • The Council takes Tenant and Resident Safety seriously, the measures we take, and our performance are reported to Board on a regular basis. • Comprehensive Compliance Coverage • There is a dedicated team covering: Gas, Electrical, Fire, Water, Asbestos, Lifts, Damp & Mould • Bi-annual performance reporting • Governance & Oversight • Members were provided with training on compliance (Feb 2025) • Regular reports to Board on safety and compliance Corporate Health and Safety Policies and Procedures. Fire Safety Guidance for Existing High Rise domestic Buildings Scottish Government Guidance on Sprinkler Systems for all newbuild home building warrants submitted on or after 1 June 2022 Internal Audit Statement of Compliance. CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Page 255 of 366
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7 PUBLIC AN3 Have assurance and evidence that the Council is meeting all its legal obligations associated with housing and homelessness services, equality and human rights, and tenant and resident safety How We Comply Evidence • Housing Landlord Compliance Strategy 2025–2028 in place • Gas & Electrical Safety • There have been zero gas safety fails since April 2026 • Electrical safety compliance progressing; We are currently 99% compliant regarding the number of properties without a valid EICR certificate and the number of properties Damp & Mould Monitoring • Stock condition survey underway will gather information on mould issues • We have introduced sensor installation in properties with damp and mould to enable properties to be monitored before and after remediation has been carried out. Sensors are also used to highlight potential issues before they are reported. • Policies and procedures in place for remediation • External Review • Positive feedback from Social Housing Safety Network Scotland (Jan 2025) • Reviewed key safety policies and strategy • Senior staff met with the SHR to discuss handling asbestos management cases. We provide updates to the Scottish Housing Regulator on the progress of the Asbestos Action Plan • An Asbestos Awareness session was held for members on 10th February 2026. • ARC Reporting (2025/26) advised on: • Gas & electrical compliance failures • Fire detection equipment coverage • Damp & mould resolution times and reopen rates Housing Adaptations within Council Stock Policy CAH Board Report 28 October 2025, Environment, Housing and Infrastructure (EHI) Health, Safety and Wellbeing Plan 2025 – 2028: Mid-year (6 month) Update CAH Board Report 19 May 2026, Environment, Housing and Infrastructure (E, H & I) Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Health, Safety and Wellbeing Plan 2026–2029) Housing Asset Management Strategy 2025-2030. CAH Board report: Housing Landlord Compliance 2025, 11 March2025 CAH Board Report Housing Landlord Compliance – Bi-annual Performance Report, 19 May 2026 Housing Landlord Compliance Policy – Gas Safety Housing Landlord Compliance Policy – Electrical Safety Housing Landlord Compliance Policy – Asbestos Management Policy Housing Landlord Compliance Policy – Fire Safety Housing Landlord Compliance Policy – Water Safety Housing Landlord Compliance Policy – lift Safety Service Update Reports (each cycle) Members training on compliance, presentation to Members (February 2025) Asbestos Awareness session for members 10th February 2026 (Presentation) Page 256 of 366
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8 PUBLIC AN4 Notify the SHR of any tenant and resident safety matters which have been reported to or are being investigated by the Health and Safety Executive, or reports from regulatory or statutory authorities, or insurance providers, relating to safety concerns How We Comply Evidence During 2025/26, an incident by an external contractor, involving the disturbance of asbestos cement materials occurred during reroofing works at 41-43 Abbotsford Crescent, Paisley, resulting in a request for information from the Health and Safety Executive. The area was immediately secured, a licensed asbestos contractor was appointed to clean the site and dispose of affected materials, and the site was made safe the same day. The incident remains under investigation. On 14 June 2026 an external contractor was fitting a smart meter, the combustion chamber combusted, the engineer capped the gas meter. To date the contractor has not yet submitted a RIDDOR report to the HSE. The Council’s corporate health and safety team are engaging with both the contractor and Scottish Power regarding this incident to ensure the correct reporting process is followed. If the contractor fails in their responsibility to report the incident to HSE within the agreed timescale, then the Council will be required to notify the HSE. RIDDOR Report (F144) Page 257 of 366
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9 PUBLIC AN5 Make the Council’s Engagement Plan easily available and accessible to tenants and service users, including online How We Comply Evidence The Council’s current Engagement Plan is publicised on the Council’s website and any subsequent plans will be made available online for tenants and service users. The Engagement plan is also promoted to tenants in the Annual Review for Tenants. Council website which includes link to Regulator website Annual Review for Tenants SHR Engagement Plan from 31 March 2026 – 31 March 2027 CAH Policy Board Report 18 August 2026 – Regulation of Social Housing Assurance Statement Annual Review for Tenants Page 258 of 366
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10 PUBLIC 2. Scottish Social Housing Charter Performance CH1 Submit an Annual Return on the Charter (ARC) to the SHR each year in accordance with published guidance. How We Comply Evidence The Annual Return on the Charter (ARC) was submitted to the Scottish Housing Regulator in May 2025. A robust internal data checking framework is in place, with sample data independently verified by the Scottish Housing Network. Each year Internal Audit select a number of indicators to ensure that the correct processes are being followed and the returns are accurate. Charter performance is reported bi-annually to the Communities and Housing Policy Board. As members of Scotland’s Housing Network we benchmark performance against other social landlords. Each year the SHN provides and presentation to senior managers highlighting comparable performance against other local authorities. CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Internal Audit report SHN Performance Analysis Visit Presentation (2026 Visit scheduled for 8 September 2026) CHA Policy Board 28 October 2025, Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26 Six Month Update Page 259 of 366
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11 PUBLIC CH2 Involve tenants, and where relevant other service users, in the preparation and scrutiny of performance information. This must include: • Agreeing the approach with tenants • Ensuring that it is effective and meaningful – that the chosen approach gives tenants a real and demonstrable say in the assessment of performance • Publicising the approach to tenants • Ensuring that it can be verified and be able to show that the agreed approach to involving tenants has happened Involve other service users in an appropriate way, having asked and had regard to their needs and wishes. How We Comply Evidence Tenant Participation & Performance Engagement • Performance Communication Tenants are consulted on how performance data is presented and benchmarked. This is shared in the Charter supplement of the Annual Review for Tenants and on the Council’s website. • Annual Charter Return Officers and tenant reps reviewed the Council’s performance and ARC submission in an online session. The 2024/25 Tenant Report and ARC presentation were discussed at the Joint Tenants Meeting on 3 July 2025. • Tenant Participation Strategy Adopted in October 2022, with annual progress updates to the Communities and Housing Policy Board. • Ongoing Engagement Tenant groups are consulted regularly, through face-to-face meetings and on line meetings. • Tenant Satisfaction In 2026, 99% of tenants were satisfied with opportunities to participate in decision-making. Presentation and Minutes of Joint Tenant Representative Group Meetings. (25 June 2026) Tenant Participation Strategy – Update – CAH Policy Board 10 March 2026 Tenant Scrutiny Panel activity Quality Circle Inspections 2025 - 2028 Rent Consultation and Council Board report on rent increase on 27 February 2025. Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Council Wide Forum Tenant & Resident Association Meetings Regeneration & Renewal Area Pop-Up Events Attendance Log Housing-led Regeneration & Renewal Programme – Consultation Update – CHAPS Policy Board 15 March 2022 Page 260 of 366
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12 PUBLIC CH2 Involve tenants, and where relevant other service users, in the preparation and scrutiny of performance information. This must include: • Agreeing the approach with tenants • Ensuring that it is effective and meaningful – that the chosen approach gives tenants a real and demonstrable say in the assessment of performance • Publicising the approach to tenants • Ensuring that it can be verified and be able to show that the agreed approach to involving tenants has happened Involve other service users in an appropriate way, having asked and had regard to their needs and wishes. How We Comply Evidence • Participation Opportunities Tenants engage through surveys, forums, associations, scrutiny panels, and Quality Circles. A new Quality Circle for Estate Management was introduced this year. • Neighbourhood Renewal Groups established in 2 of 8 regeneration areas, enabling local input on area improvements. Link to Council website for eight Regeneration & Renewal areas Housing-led Regeneration & Renewal Programme – Consultation – CHAPS Policy Board 18 January 2022 Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 Housing Regeneration Newsletters Housing-led Regeneration & Renewal Programme – year 4 Update– CAH Policy Board 19 August 2025 Quality Circle Meetings (Reports) CH3 Report performance in achieving or progressing towards the Charter outcomes and standards to its tenants and other service users (no later than October each year). The format of performance reporting must be agreed with tenants, ensuring that it is accessible for tenants and other service users, with plain and jargon-free language. How We Comply Evidence Each year tenant representatives are consulted on how performance information should be presented; what indicators should be highlighted and how performance is benchmarked. Presentation and Minutes of Joint Tenant Representative Group Meetings. (25 June 2026) Annual Review for Tenants Page 261 of 366
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13 PUBLIC CH3 Report performance in achieving or progressing towards the Charter outcomes and standards to its tenants and other service users (no later than October each year). The format of performance reporting must be agreed with tenants, ensuring that it is accessible for tenants and other service users, with plain and jargon-free language. How We Comply Evidence The annual Report to Tenants is delivered to all Council tenants as a supplement to the Annual Review for Tenants each year. The Councils performance against charter indicators is also publicised on the Council Website – Annual Return on the Charter Tenant Supplement. Council website. CH4 When reporting performance to tenants and other service users, this must: • Include providing them with an assessment of performance in delivering each of the Charter outcomes and standards which are relevant to the Council • Include relevant comparisons – these should include comparisons with previous years, with other landlords and with national performance. • Set out how and when the Council intends to address areas for improvement • Give tenants and other service users a way to feed back their views on the style and form of the reporting. How We Comply Evidence Using Tenant Feedback to Improve Services • Annual Report to Tenants is shaped by tenant feedback and includes: • Performance comparisons with previous years • Benchmarking against Scottish averages • Highlights of successes and areas for improvement • Charter Information shared with tenant groups includes: • Year-on-year performance data • Comparisons with other social landlords • Policy Board Reporting includes: • Identified improvement areas such as re-let times, adaptations, void management, and gas safety CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Annual Review for Tenants - Annual Return on the Charter Tenant Supplement Page 262 of 366
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14 PUBLIC CH4 When reporting performance to tenants and other service users, this must: • Include providing them with an assessment of performance in delivering each of the Charter outcomes and standards which are relevant to the Council • Include relevant comparisons – these should include comparisons with previous years, with other landlords and with national performance. • Set out how and when the Council intends to address areas for improvement • Give tenants and other service users a way to feed back their views on the style and form of the reporting. How We Comply Evidence • Annual Review for Tenants invites tenant feedback on newsletter format and content Presentation and Minutes of Joint Tenant Representative Group Meetings (25 June 2026) Council website CH5 Make the report on performance easily available to tenants, including online. How We Comply Evidence The annual Report to Tenants is delivered to all Council tenants as a supplement to the Annual Review for Tenants each year. The Councils performance against charter indicators is published on the Council Website. Annual Review for Tenants – Annual Return on the Charter Tenant Supplement Council website Page 263 of 366
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15 PUBLIC 3. Tenants and Service Users Redress TS1 Make information on reporting significant performance failures, including the SHR’s leaflet, available to tenants. How We Comply Evidence Information for tenants on reporting significant performance failures, including the SHR’s leaflet, is available from the Council website. A link to the SHR’s website is also publicised on the Councils website. Council website includes a link to the Scottish Housing Regulator’s website. SHR Significant Failures Leaflet TS2 Provide tenants and other service users with the information they need to exercise their right to complain and seek redress and respond to tenants within the timescales outlined in the Council’s service standards, in accordance with guidance from the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO). How We Comply Evidence Information on how to complain is publicised widely, including online and in tenant newsletters. The Council adheres to the SPSO guidance in relation to complaint timescales. The Council monitors complaints handling, and this is reported to the Scottish Housing Regulator through the Annual Return on the Charter. Complaints performance information is covered in the Annual Report to Tenants. Complaints Handling Procedures: • Customer Guide • Complaints Form Annual Review for Tenants Council website CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Page 264 of 366
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16 PUBLIC TS3 Ensure the Council has effective arrangements to learn from complaints and from other tenant and service user feedback, in accordance with SPSO guidance. How We Comply Evidence • Complaints Process • Information on how to complain is widely publicised (online and in newsletters). • The Council follows SPSO guidance on complaint timescales. • Complaints are analysed for recurring themes, with officer meetings held for insight. Corporate Complaints Handling Procedures Complaints by Service Area Spreadsheet Annual Review for Tenants SMT meetings SPSO – Link on Council website Environment, Housing and Infrastructure - 2026-2029 Service Improvement Plan TS4 Provide tenants, residents and service users with easy and effective ways to provide feedback and raise concerns, and ensure that it considers such information and provides a quick and effective response. How We Comply Evidence Tenant Feedback & Participation • Surveys Conducted: • Point-of-service and repairs satisfaction surveys • Annual survey for property owners • Tenant satisfaction survey (every two years) • Tenant Involvement: • Tenant Scrutiny Panel: Reviews and suggests service improvements • Tenant Quality Circles: Inspect and receive reports on estate management and other services Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2026 Repairs satisfaction survey Owners Survey Tenant Participation Strategy TSP minutes Quality Circle reports Sheltered Housing Newsletters & Sheltered Housing Good News Housing Support Newsletters Page 265 of 366
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17 PUBLIC TS4 Provide tenants, residents and service users with easy and effective ways to provide feedback and raise concerns, and ensure that it considers such information and provides a quick and effective response. How We Comply Evidence • A “Good News” section is included in the Sheltered Housing and Housing Support newsletters. 4. Whistleblowing WB1 Have effective arrangements and a policy for whistleblowing by staff and elected members which the Council makes easily available and which it promotes. How We Comply Evidence The Council’s Staff Code of Conduct includes information on Whistleblowing. This is available for staff and elected members on the Councils intranet site. Following the local government elections in 2022 all councillors in the new administration were provided with a briefing pack which contains key aspects of services. Elected members must comply with the Councillors’ Code of Conduct which is available on the Standards Commission website. Staff Code of Conduct Councillors’ Code of Conduct Convenor Pack New Councillor Introduction to Wards 1- 12. New Councillor Presentation 2022 Page 266 of 366
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18 PUBLIC 5. Equalities and Human Rights EH1 Have assurance and evidence that the Council considers equality and human rights issues properly when making all of its decisions, in the design and review of internal and external policies, and in its day-to-day How We Comply Evidence Equality, Accessibility & Inclusive Housing – Summary • Equality & Human Rights • All Board reports are reviewed for equality and human rights implications. • Equality Impact Assessments are conducted for all policy changes. • The Service Improvement Plan includes an annual equalities statement. • Tenant Satisfaction & Engagement • High satisfaction with service access and participation opportunities (2024 survey). • Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes annual consultation with individuals and groups. • Inclusive Housing Design • Newbuild Specification ensures compliance with Housing for Varying Needs standards. • Includes wheelchair-accessible and future-proof homes. • Our regeneration programme supports social transformation in SIMD areas. • Flexible & Accessible Services • Hybrid working model supports service delivery in offices and remotely. • All customers seeking housing are offered tailored housing options discussions either in person or on MS TEAMS. Council Guide for Assessing Equality and Human Rights Impacts Collecting Equality Information: National guidance for Scottish social landlords, June 2022 Progress Report on Equality Mainstreaming Equality 2023 Housing Information & Advice for People with Disabilities Digital Support for Council Tenants – Digital Participation Overview 2022-2023 Link to Language Line translation service & Alternative formats are available on request. Wheelchair accessible customer service centre with Loop hearing systems in place. Renfrewshire Common Housing Allocation Policy Housing Options, mobility, Sheltered and HSPC housing application process. Housing Options On Line application, https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/14207/Apply-for- council-housing Page 267 of 366
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19 PUBLIC EH1 Have assurance and evidence that the Council considers equality and human rights issues properly when making all of its decisions, in the design and review of internal and external policies, and in its day-to-day How We Comply Evidence • Specialist Support • A Housing & Disabilities Advisor supports complex cases (e.g., hospital discharge, housebound individuals). • Care Experienced Support • The Service is committed to Keeping The Promise and supporting care-experienced individuals. • Close collaboration with Social Work with our Throughcare policy for care leavers. • High housing priority for young people leaving care; ongoing review of practices to meet their needs. • Strategic Reporting • Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan Review 2022 submitted to the Scottish Government. Tenant Information Booklet & Tenancy Agreement Polish Translation Annual Re-registration process for housing applicants Renfrewshire Homeless Partnership multi-agency approach Housing Providers Forum Renfrewshire Common Housing Allocation Policy Equalities Impact Assessment. Housing-led Regeneration and Renewal Programme for Renfrewshire - Equalities Impact Assessment Tenants Satisfaction Survey 2026. Draft Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026 to 2031 Consultative draft Renfrewshire Council Newbuild Specification Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Homeless Prevention Officers to link in with Throughcare Throughcare Partnership Agreement between Housing Services and Social Work Page 268 of 366
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20 PUBLIC EH2 To comply with these duties, landlords must collect data relating to each of the protected characteristics for their existing tenants, new tenants, people on waiting lists, governing body members and staff. Local authorities must also collect data on protected characteristics for people who apply to them as homeless. Landlords who provide Gypsy/ Traveller sites must also collect data on protected characteristics for these service users. How We Comply Evidence Equality Monitoring & Strategic Alignment • Protected Characteristics • Information is collected from housing applicants, tenants, and waiting list applicants (where provided), and anonymised in the Tenant Satisfaction Survey. • Strategic Planning • The Service Improvement Plan (SIP) aligns with the 5 strategic outcomes of the Council Plan 2023–2028, with actions grouped accordingly. • Gypsy/Traveller Communities • While there are currently no sites in Renfrewshire, the Council uses Scottish Government resources and research to understand and respond to the evolving needs of Gypsy/Traveller communities, particularly around accommodation and services. • The Local Housing Strategy reflects the publication of the Scottish Government’s June 2023 Action Plan and the emerging associated Accommodation Needs Toolkit which Renfrewshire Council will use to consider options to best meet the housing needs of the Gypsy Traveller community and to meet the Council’s duties under the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019. • The Strategic Housing Investment Plan identifies land and working with other local authorities to address requirements of Gypsy/Travellers CAH Policy Board Report 19 May 2026 - Social Housing Charter Performance: 2025/26, 2026 Engagement Plan Environment, Housing & Infrastructure - Service Improvement Plan 2026-2029 Final ARC Submission 2025/26 – May 2026 Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 – Year Two (2024/25) Progress Update CAH Policy Board, 28 October 2025 Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026 to 2031 Page 269 of 366
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21 PUBLIC Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR Page 270 of 366
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PUBLIC APPENDIX 2 Renfrewshire Council Assurance Statement 2026 Renfrewshire Council complies with the regulatory requirements set out in Chapter 3 of the Regulatory Framework. We achieve the standards and outcomes in the Scottish Social Housing Charter for tenants, people who are homeless and others who use our services. Equalities and Human Rights In relation to equalities data collection and human rights, the Council has established policies and procedures in these areas which are embedded in service delivery. We review and adjust our approach in the collection of equalities and human rights information along with any other changes in accordance with statutory requirements or regulatory guidance. Homelessness The Council uses a range of measures to minimise homelessness and provide support to vulnerable people. At mid-July, of the 322 households in temporary accommodation 20 are in breach the unsuitable accommodation order. Since our last reported figure of 8 failures in April 2026 there have been zero failures to offer accommodation since April to mid-July. Tenant and Resident Safety The Service continues to take steps to review and consolidate its responsibilities in relation to tenant and resident safety. The Housing Landlord Compliance team is embedded within the service; a Landlord Compliance Strategy was developed and policies for all compliance matters are in place. The Board received an update on performance in the Biannual Housing Landlord Compliance report in May 2026. The Scottish Housing Regulator now collects data on indicators on fire and electrical safety and damp and mould as part of the Annual Return on the Charter (ARC), our performance is reported to Board in May 2026 and to tenants by the end of October 2026. • Gas safety Since April 2026 there have been no instances where a gas certificate was not renewed by its anniversary date. • Electrical safety We are currently 99% compliant regarding the number of properties without a valid EICR certificate and the number of properties Page 271 of 366
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PUBLIC • Water safety There have been no incidents where water safety has been compromised. • Fire safety Fire risk assessments continue to be reviewed annually for High Rise and Sheltered housing complexes with a 6 monthly review taking place. There is an ongoing 3 yearly programme for communal areas of domestic properties. • Asbestos An asbestos action plan is in place with review from external agency to best progress additional workload • Damp and Mould As at the end of June 2026: o There were 107 resolved cases, with an average resolution time of 40.3 days. o Reopened cases: This will be reported at the year end. o There are 72 ongoing cases currently under investigation. • Lift safety There have been no incidents of lift safety issues. (Waiting for relevant narrative if any Asset Management Renfrewshire Council has robust procedures in place ensure that our Housing Asset Management data is comprehensive, up-to-date, and continuously reviewed. Our work is guided by our current Asset Management Strategy (2025-30), and its associated Action Plan. The strategy is guided by our core asset objectives, two of which relate to data and its use. • Core Asset Objective 2 - Ensure future decisions are based on robust data with reviews or option appraisals of cause for concern stock. • Core Asset Objective 3 – Develop our digital infrastructure to provide accurate asset management and performance information The Action Plan sets out actions required to meet the goals of the strategy; these actions are shown aligning with our Local Housing Strategy and the priorities within the SHRs asset management recommended practice from 2023. Our data is stored on a Housing Asset Management Software System (Apex). Apex contains all our homes with data on type, form, construction and identified by archetypes. Each home and block on the system contain attributes and characteristic data on individual components/elements, with their install date, required replacement date and associated costs. We use Apex to calculate our SHQS compliance, with energy information also stored in Apex. Page 272 of 366
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PUBLIC A stock condition survey is currently being carried out by external surveyors over a five-year period from 2024. It is our intention to have a continuous rolling condition survey of 20% of stock per annum, in order to ensure our data quality is maintained. The information gathered, alongside other sources, provides the starting point for the development of programmes of external and internal investment which have been developed for the period 2026 – 2030. We have a good understanding of our non- traditional construction stock, and these are of particular interest within our future externals programme, in order to meet net zero requirements. In 2020/21 we undertook specialist surveys of our 14 multi-storey blocks. These surveys provided detailed information of the block’s construction, external wall makeup, roof makeup, and structural condition. Along with the stock condition survey, the specialist surveys have provided the basis for our proposed multi storey investment programme 2026-2033. Single Building Assessments of these blocks are also underway, which will identify any fire safety issues. For the identification of any RAAC in our housing stock, we carried out a desktop assessment to identify archetypes of the correct age and style, most likely to contain RAAC. From those identified a sample was chosen for our internal building surveyors to check on-site, no RAAC was identified. The assessment and on-site checks were later verified by an external structural engineer. We continue to be vigilant for any signs of RAAC during repairs and programmes of work. The Apex system will be replaced in 2027, with the implementation of the new Housing Management System (NEC) which includes asset management as one of its core functions. This will include all HRA owned assets, including homes, commercial properties, lock-ups and launderettes. The introduction of the new software will allow all data in relation to housing services, including repairs and asset management, to be held on the one system. The new system will also allow us to display our asset management data within an integrated geographic information system and incorporate data from our environmental sensors. It also includes new features such as an integrated Asset Performance Review module, providing strategic assessments of our stock in keeping with the SHRs integrated asset management guidance. Service Performance With regards to service performance there are areas that the Board have been advised that the Charter data for 2025/26 displayed improved or stable performance in most indicators. Of the 26 indicators where performance can be compared with last year, the majority – seventeen - have improved, seven remain unchanged and two have dipped slightly in performance There have been significant levels of improvement particularly notable in relation to void property management, rent arrears performance, emergency repairs and adaptations. Page 273 of 366
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PUBLIC Tenant satisfaction levels have increased considerably with the most recent Satisfaction Survey highlighting improvements across all core ARC indicators. The 2026 survey results demonstrate improvement from the previous surveys and also exceed the Scottish Local Authority averages. The survey demonstrates a robust recovery in tenant satisfaction following the reduction experienced in 2024. All six Scottish Social Housing Charter indicators recorded improvements and now exceed the Scottish Local Authority average. The background papers that support our Assurance Statement for 2026 advised that there were two reportable Health and Safety incidents. Both of these incidents were the responsibility of external contractors. The Council’s Communities and Housing Policy Board regularly receives reports which provide information and evidence to support assurance. The Annual Assurance Statement 2026 was considered and approved by the Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board on 18 August 2026. Signed _____________________________________________ Councillor Marie McGurk Convener of the Communities and Housing Policy Board Date: ____________________ Page 274 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities & Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Surplus declaration of land at Dundonald Avenue, Johnstone. ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The purpose of this report is to declare land at Dundonald Avenue, Johnstone surplus to requirements. The land is held on the HRA account. 1.2 The site location is shown on the attached plan E3777. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board declares the land at Dundonald Avenue, Johnstone, shown on the attached plan, surplus to requirements in order to enable its disposal to Scottish Power Energy Networks Limited for the installation of a new substation. ________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board on 23rd November 2023 awarded a Works Contract to McTaggart Construction Limited for a new build Council housing development in the Howwood Road area of Johnstone. 3.2 It has been determined that an upgrade to the electricity supply is necessary to facilitate this new Council housing development. Item 12 Page 275 of 366
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PUBLIC Discussions have taken place with Scottish Power/Energy Assets Networks Limited, and in principle it has been agreed that the best location for a new substation is as outlined on the attached plan E3777. It has also been agreed that the purchase price shall be £1.00 (if asked) and that each party shall bear their own legal and professional expenses incurred in the transaction. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – None. 4. Legal – Disposal of land required. 5. Property/Assets – Disposal of land required. 6. Information Technology – None 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None. 12. Climate Risk – not applicable. 13. Children’s Rights – not applicable. 14. Cosla Policy Position – not applicable. List of Background Papers – Report to Finance, Resources & Customer Services Policy Board on 23rd November 2023. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Andrew Smith Email – andrew.smith@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 276 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Allocation of property to staff, elected member or committee members: Housing Rule 2.5 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The purpose of this report is to notify the Communities and Housing Policy Board of housing allocations which involve Council members or their immediate families or members of staff of the Housing Service and their immediate families. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 Members of the Communities and Housing Policy Board are asked to note the contents of this report for information. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 In terms of the Renfrewshire Common Housing Allocation Policy Rule 2.5, the Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure is required to notify the relevant Policy Board of all housing allocations which involve either Council members or their immediate families or members of staff of the Housing Service or their immediate families. 3.2 One allocation has been made during the period 1st February 2026 and 30th June 2026 Address 2/2 1F Bellview Court, Renfrew, PA4 8PR Size 2 Bedroom Allocated to Son of Elected Member Date Let 23rd April 2026 __________________________________________________________________ Item 13 Page 278 of 366
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial - none 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – none 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality & Human Rights (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report because it is for noting only. 8. Health & Safety – none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – n/a 12. Climate Risk – n/a 13. Children’s Rights – n/a 14. COSLA Policy Position – n/a __________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers None _________________________________________________________________ Author: Louise Feely, Head of Housing Services Email: louise.feely@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 279 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/2027 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Renfrewshire Council is required by Food Standards Scotland (FSS) to produce a Service Plan to provide detail on the work being undertaken in Food Law across Renfrewshire Council. 1.2 The Business Regulation Team within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure undertakes this for Renfrewshire Council and they also lead on workplace health and safety and other areas of Environmental Health work which are included within the plan. 1.3 The Service Plan sets out the objectives, work which is undertaken, service delivery, resources and quality assurance. 1.4 The Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/27 is attached to this report as an appendix. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Approves the Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/27. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 Business Regulation forms part of the Climate, Public Protection and Roads Service within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure. Item 14 Page 280 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.2 The team provides an effective regulatory service for food law, and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council, ensuring the Council’s statutory responsibilities are met. The objective of the service is to improve the quality and effectiveness of these regulatory activities, and in doing so, ensure public health and safety are maintained. 3.3 In terms of food law enforcement, Renfrewshire Council is a statutory food authority under the Food Safety Act 1990 for all food businesses within Renfrewshire. The Council is also an enforcing authority in terms of Section 18 of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, within certain types of premises within Renfrewshire. This is determined by the main activity undertaken at the premises, as defined in the Health and Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1998. 3.4 Section 18 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 puts a duty on the HSE and Local Authorities (LAs), as Enforcing Authorities, to make adequate arrangements for enforcement. The Section 18 Standard sets out the arrangements that LAs and HSE’s Field Operation Directorate should put in place to meet this duty. 3.5 The Business Plan 2026/27 highlights the work undertaken by the Business Regulation Team over the previous year, the current position with regards to numbers and types of premises (as of 1 April 2026) and the planned work for the coming 12 months. 3.6 Overall, Food Law and Health & Safety Performance within the Business Regulation Team remained high during the period (1/4/25 to 31/3/26). Work included; 102 in-depth Health & Safety Interventions carried out within a range of businesses and 1467 Food Law interventions. 598 of these Food Law interventions were required to be carried out within 28 days as specified in the Food Law code of practice. Of these 91.5% (548) of these interventions were completed within the specified timeframe. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – none 2. HR & Organisational Development - none 3. Community Planning Renfrewshire is safe – By implementing the attached Service Plan, Environment, Housing and Infrastructure will ensure that food prepared and consumed in Renfrewshire is safe and that workplace Health & Safety is regulated. 4. Legal – none 5. Property/Assets - none Page 281 of 366
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PUBLIC 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report 8. Health & Safety - Where staff are required to visit premises, all risk assessments and safe working procedures have been developed. 9. Procurement - none 10. Risk - none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate Risk - none 13. Children’s Rights – none 14. CoSLA Policy Position – none ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers None ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Rachael Flanagan, Lead Officer - Environmental Health e-mail: rachael.flanagan@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 282 of 366
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1 PUBLIC Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Page 284 of 366
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2 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Contents 1. Service Aims and Objectives .................................................................................. 5 1.1. Aims and Objectives .............................................................................. 5 1.2. Links to Corporate Objectives and Plans .............................................. 5 1.3. Overview ................................................................................................ 6 2. Background ........................................................................................................... 7 2.1. Organisational Structure ....................................................................... 7 2.1.1. Role of Public Protection within Climate, Public Protection and Roads ... 7 2.1.2. Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ................................................. 7 2.2. Scope of the Service .............................................................................. 8 2.3. Demands on the Service ........................................................................ 9 2.4. Performance Management .................................................................. 13 2.5. Enforcement Policy & Procedures ....................................................... 13 3. Service Delivery .................................................................................................... 15 3.1. Food and Health & Safety Premises Inspections ................................. 15 3.2. Food and Health and Safety Service Requests ................................... 18 3.3. Investigation of Accidents ................................................................... 21 3.4. Enforcement Management Model (EMM) ............................................ 21 3.5. Home Authority Principle & Primary Authority Scheme ...................... 21 3.6. Advice to Business ............................................................................... 23 Page 285 of 366
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3 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.7. FHIS & EatSafe ..................................................................................... 23 3.8. Sampling ............................................................................................. 24 3.9. Control and Investigation of Outbreaks and Food Related Infectious Diseases ........................................................................................................... 24 3.10. Food Incidents ..................................................................................... 25 3.11. Health and Safety Interventions .......................................................... 25 3.12. Liaison with Other Organisations ........................................................ 26 3.13. Work Related Death Protocol .............................................................. 27 4. Resources ............................................................................................................. 28 4.1. Financial Allocation ............................................................................. 28 4.2. Staffing Allocation ............................................................................... 28 4.2.1. Staff development ................................................................................... 29 4.3. Employee Development Plan .............................................................. 30 5. Quality Assessment .............................................................................................. 31 5.1. Quality Assessment & Internal Monitoring .......................................... 31 6. REVIEW 2025-26 ................................................................................................... 32 6.1. Review of Food Law Activity ................................................................ 32 6.2. Review of Sampling activity ................................................................. 34 6.3. Review of Health and Safety activity ................................................... 35 6.4. Areas for Improvement ........................................................................ 35 7. Emerging Issues 2026/27 ..................................................................................... 36 Page 286 of 366
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4 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 8. Appendix 1 – Food Sampling Programme 2026/27 ............................................. 37 8.1. Introduction......................................................................................... 37 8.2. Approach to Sampling ......................................................................... 37 8.2.1. Informal Samples ..................................................................................... 37 8.2.2. Formal Samples ....................................................................................... 38 8.3. Sampling Priorities .............................................................................. 38 8.4. Manufacturing/Approved Premises .................................................... 38 8.5. Complaints and Food Borne Disease Investigations .......................... 38 8.6. Co-ordinated Sampling ....................................................................... 38 8.7. Imported Food .................................................................................... 39 8.8. Special Investigations .......................................................................... 39 8.9. Sampling Priority Actions .................................................................... 39 8.10. Routine Sampling ................................................................................ 40 9. Appendix 2 -Structure .......................................................................................... 41 Page 287 of 366
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5 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 1. Service Aims and Objectives 1.1. Aims and Objectives The Food and Health & Safety Service is delivered by the Environmental Health, Business Regulation Team. This team forms part of the Climate, Public Protection and Roads Service within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure. The aim is to provide an effective regulatory service for food law, and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council, ensuring the Council’s statutory responsibilities are met. The objective of the Service is to improve the quality and effectiveness of these regulatory activities, and in doing so, ensure public health and safety are maintained. In order to achieve this aim, Environment, Housing and Infrastructure will: Apply the relevant legislation at premises regulated by the Local Authority in line with the Scottish Regulators Code of Practice, Work in partnership with agencies such as Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to achieve nationally agreed strategic aims, Ensure that all staff undertaking enforcement activity are properly qualified and competent to undertake their duties, Operate a risk based approach to inspection and regulation, Carry out a programme of specific, targeted and appropriate interventions in order to improve food safety, quality and health & safety standards, Work with local businesses in an open and transparent manner, Investigate and take appropriate action upon receipt of accident notifications, service requests, food borne infection notifications and complaints. 1.2. Links to Corporate Objectives and Plans The Environmental Health, Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-27 contributes to Climate, Public Protection and Roads outcomes as well as Renfrewshire Council’s Corporate Objectives and Plans. In particular, the Service has a critical role to play in supporting sustainable economic development, ensuring the health and safety of the Page 288 of 366
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6 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC public, addressing the impact of poverty and the protection of both the public and legitimate businesses from criminal activities. 1.3. Overview In terms of food law enforcement, Renfrewshire Council is a statutory Food Authority under the Food Safety Act 1990 for all food businesses within Renfrewshire. The Council is also an Enforcing Authority in terms of Section 18 of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The Service is the enforcing authority for health & safety legislation in certain types of premises within Renfrewshire. This is determined by the main activity being undertaken at the premises as laid down in the Health and Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1998. Section 18 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 puts a duty on the Health & Safety Executive ( HSE) and Local Authorities (LAs), as Enforcing Authorities, to make adequate arrangements for enforcement. The Section 18 Standard sets out the arrangements that LAs and HSE’s Field Operation Directorate should put in place to meet this duty. Page 289 of 366
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7 PUBLIC 2. Background 2.1. Organisational Structure The Food Safety and Health & Safety service is delivered by suitably qualified officers within the Business Regulation Team operating in Environment, Housing and Infrastructure as part of Climate, Public Protection and Roads (Appendix 2). 2.1.1. Role of Public Protection within Climate, Public Protection and Roads Public Protection within Climate, Public Protection and Roads, consists of the Business Regulation, Community Safety, Environmental Improvements and Trading Standards teams. Their combined role is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the local community and to safeguard public health, the quality of the local environment and to enhance economic, social and environmental welfare by improving and maintaining standards of fair trading in terms of safety, quality, quantity and price. 2.1.2. Environment, Housing and Infrastructure The Service is based at: Climate, Public Protection and Roads Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR The Service can be contacted by: email: b-serv.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk, or phone: 0300 300 0300 Page 290 of 366
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8 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 2.2. Scope of the Service The main role of Business Regulation Service is to undertake regulatory functions of relevant legislation in terms of food law and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council. The aim is to secure compliance with the standards laid down in primary legislation, associated regulations and codes of practice. The key activities of Business Regulation Service are based on the implementation of inspection/intervention, survey and sampling programmes and other appropriate monitoring and investigative activities, including responding to, and learning from food complaints, accidents and incidents at work. Under Section 5 of the Food Safety Act 1990, Renfrewshire Council is a statutory food authority, responsible for delivery of official controls under the Act and associated regulations. Statutory appointments of Head of Food Service and Lead Officer for Food Safety are detailed in the Council’s Scheme of Delegated Functions. Enforcement of the legislation, under Section 6 of the Food Safety Act 1990, includes food hygiene and food standards covering the safety, quality, presentation and labelling of food. To this end, a programme of food business inspections and the surveillance of food is carried out by co-ordinated food sampling and a food standards inspection programme. Food and premises hygiene complaints are investigated where required. The investigation and control of food-borne infections within food premises is carried out in conjunction with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The Service acts as the originating authority to those large-scale food manufacturers within the area, co-ordinating and assisting in complaints and enquiries from other food authorities within the UK and third countries. As an enforcing authority, the Service also has responsibility for the provision of health & safety enforcement services in a range of business activities covering approximately 2500 premises and an estimated 10,000 employees. The enforcement of health & safety legislation is split between the Local Authority (Renfrewshire Council) and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), depending on the main activity being undertaken at the premises as laid down in the Health & Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1998. The HSE are responsible for the more traditional “factory” or industrial premises. The premises within the remit of the Council include offices, shops, warehouses, leisure, hotel and catering premises. Page 291 of 366
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9 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC The principal activities of the service, outlined above, have relevance to the Planning, Building Standards, Civic Licensing and Alcohol Licensing services of the Council. The Service also delivers official controls in relation to food law in all Renfrewshire Council food operations. The Service provides advice and guidance to all businesses to ensure compliance with statutory requirements. The 2026/27 Business Regulation Service plan provides data and information for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. All information and data figures are correct as of 1 April 2026. 2.3. Demands on the Service Table 1: Profile of food businesses in Renfrewshire Premises Number Caring Establishment 143 Hotels and Guest Houses 26 Mobile Traders 44 Primary Food Producers 6 Pubs/Clubs 145 Restaurant/ Caterer 399 Takeaway Premises 202 Retail 340 Schools and Colleges 84 Manufacturers and Packers 46 Importers/Exporters 8 Distributors/Transporters 24 TOTAL 1467 Page 292 of 366
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10 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 2: Profile of Businesses for Health & Safety Enforcement Premises Number Retail 779 Wholesale 124 Offices 321 Catering 541 Hotels etc 25 Residential Care 18 Leisure 195 Consumer Services 421 Others 68 Total 2492 The Food and Health & Safety Services provided by Renfrewshire Council operate solely from Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1BR. The Service’s standard working day is 8.45am - 4.45pm Monday to Thursday, and 8.45am - 3.55pm on Friday, with an out of hour’s service also being provided in cases of emergency. Officers operate a hybrid model where they are operating from home, in the office and in the field e.g. inspecting premises and investigating incidents. The Service works in a number of complex areas, which include: Glasgow International Airport As Glasgow International Airport lies within the Authority, this adds further elements of work to the Environmental Health, Business Regulation Team. Consignments of food, particularly fruit and vegetables come through Glasgow Airport from third Countries. These foods are subject to controls administered by Environmental Health, Business Regulation. The Service is also involved in the surveillance of exports from the airport and provides export certificates to those businesses exporting foodstuffs from Renfrewshire. The Business Regulation Team provides a port health role at the airport. Renfrewshire Port Health Authority was originally set up with the primary objective of preventing dangerous epidemic diseases entering the country. Although this can still occur, if a person is patently unwell, this function is now more realistically aimed at contacting and monitoring persons Page 293 of 366
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11 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC who may be carrying a communicable disease and preventing further cases arising from environmental contamination of aircraft. There are also currently two businesses which operate flight catering within the airport estate and these are subject to inspection by the service. Environmental Health Officers operate a duty rota, with one officer allocated for each day of the working week. The officer carries out all imported food functions at the airport on his/her allocated day. An emergency call out service is in place to deal with port health incidents outwith normal working hours and is available on a 24hour, 365 day basis. Communication and Language The Council area has several food businesses operating for whom English is not a first language. This can introduce communication challenges during the course of inspection and enforcement visits. To address this issue, information leaflets translated into other languages have been produced. A translation service is available to officers if required during inspections and other meetings. Council Operated Food Businesses The control of food enforcement in Local Authority catering operations provided by Facilities and Property Services is a complex and sensitive area of work. These premises include catering in residential establishments such as those run by the Council’s Social Work Services as well as schools and nurseries. The Service employs the same approach to enforcement in these premises as it does within any other food business premises. Approved/Authorised Premises There are 12 approved and 2 authorised businesses operating within Renfrewshire, all of which are approved/authorised under Regulation (EC) 853/2004. These are: DNATA Airline Catering Arran Avenue, Paisley, PA3 2AY Gate Gourmet Airline catering Campsie Drive, Paisley, PA2 8DP Gormac Foods Sandyford Road, Paisley, PA3 3HP CFPU RAH Hospital Corsebar Road, Paisley, PA2 9PJ Scottish Leather Group Seedhil Road, Paisley, PA1 1JL Scottish Leather Group Baltic Works, Bridge of Weir Gleddoch Family Butchers Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3PW Page 294 of 366
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12 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC J R Pearson (Glasgow LTD) Lomond Cold Store Blackstoun Road, Paisley, PA3 3AF Rice 'n’ Spicy Eddison street, Hillington, G524JW Muirhead Foods Ltd Lomond Coldstore, Blackstoun Road, Paisley, M J Stark LTD Sandyford Abbatoir, Sandyford Road, Paisley, PA3 4HP Bidfood Glasgow 30 Bramwell Street, Paisley, PA3 2EU UHU Scotland Limited 1B Lyon Road, Linwood Industrial Estate, Paisley, PA3 3BQ Hebridean Shellfish Ltd Unit 10 Mossedge Industrial Estate, PA3 3HR Events A significant number of events are held throughout Renfrewshire on an annual basis, particularly, but not exclusively, during the summer months. These events require a food law enforcement presence in response to the level of external food retailers and caterers providing food for the large number of visitors and this can result in a minor short-term impact on the food service. The Service also works closely with Renfrewshire Council’s Events Team. Health & Safety Enforcement The review of Health & Safety enforcement activities by the UK Government has influenced the approach in this area. HSE priority planning guidance directs the work of local authorities in relation to Health & Safety, with an emphasis on targeting resources on higher risk activities and reducing the number of routine inspections. An intervention plan based on this guidance has been developed which takes into account local conditions and priorities. Enforcement within Arm’s Length Organisations – OneRen Health & Safety enforcement in arm’s length organisations connected with Renfrewshire Council presents a challenge to the Local Authority. In 2019, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advised Renfrewshire Council that enforcement within Council owned leisure facilities operated by arm’s length organisations is, in accordance with The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the responsibility of the Local Authority. Page 295 of 366
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13 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC This presents significant challenges and burdens as there are close relationships between the Council and OneRen including the corporate control as the Council is the sole shareholder of the company. The Council does not have outright control of OneRen, as the charity has an independent board of directors, but it does have the right to appoint and remove some of the directors. As a result, strategic decisions affecting the operation of OneRen are at the very least influenced, and could (in some instances) be directed, by the Council. Further to this, staff from Renfrewshire Council Facilities and Property Services may be involved in the maintenance of buildings and installations. The buildings and assets themselves are still within the ownership of the Council and although the liabilities rest with OneRen, should an incident/accident occur this could cause a further conflict of interest. In a similar way, the Council also is responsible for enforcing food law regulations in Council operated kitchen facilities such as schools and care facilities. 2.4. Performance Management Through this Service Plan, Elected Members receive annual performance information relating to key areas of service provision, including food safety and health & safety enforcement, with managers reviewing performance data provided within the Microsoft Power Bi application monthly. Certificates of Compliance and Enforcement Notices are reported to Elected Members via the Regulatory Functions Board and Information Bulletin reports. Performance reviews are carried out on a six-monthly basis with staff involved in food safety and health & safety enforcement, to maintain performance. 2.5. Enforcement Policy & Procedures An Integrated Enforcement Policy is in place to ensure the consistency of enforcement across all areas of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure. The Policy sets standards clearly outlining the level of service which the public and businesses can expect to receive. It encourages fair and open regulation and commits the Service to ensuring our enforcement service works with businesses to assist them in complying with the law. Page 296 of 366
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14 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Information Systems Premises records are held on the Authority Public Protection (APP) system, which is used to manage the inspection programme and record details of inspections, accidents, complaints and enquiries. The database is regularly reviewed and updated to facilitate the planning of inspection programmes and production of management reports. Files were digitised and moved to SharePoint in 2022, and in April 2025 tablets were introduced to Business Regulation team. This allows Officers to use digital forms which are then uploaded to SharePoint directly. This has improved efficiency in the team, reduced paper waste and reduced support required from Business Support Services. It has also improved document control and data protection. In 2025/26 Power Automate has also been used within Business Regulation to streamline and better manage processes. This has also reduced time spent by officers on administrative tasks. The Service plans to continue reviewing and improve processes in 2026/27. Progress towards local, regional and national outcomes is monitored monthly using the reporting functions of the system. Statutory returns are made using data from the APP system. All information in relation to food premises, complaints and inspections are uploaded to FSS Scottish National database weekly to give FSS oversight of this data. Page 297 of 366
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15 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3. Service Delivery 3.1. Food and Health & Safety Premises Inspections In accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland), all food premises are risk- assessed for food law. Risk assessments are entered in the services database, which generates a target inspection date. A report is generated from the database of visits due for each officer. The Service undertakes a full inspection programme based on the risk category of premises. Regulatory activity in relation to Health and Safety at Work is determined in accordance with the HSE priority planning guidance. The tables below illustrate the number of premises in Renfrewshire in each risk category for Food Law and Health & Safety. Table 3 - Total premises (Food Law) with Group & Rating as of 1 April 2026 GROUP RATING NUMBER 1 A 22 1 B 13 1 C 5 1 D 0 1 E 0 TOTAL 40 GROUP RATING NUMBER 2 A 318 2 B 281 2 C 247 2 D 23 2 E 1 TOTAL 870 GROUP RATING NUMBER 3 A 87 3 B 389 3 C 58 3 D 1 3 E 0 TOTAL 536 Page 298 of 366
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16 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 4: Premises per group Rating Category Group Number of Premises 1 24 2 870 3 536 Food Standards Only 5 Approved/Authorised 16 Farms 8 Sub Total 1459 Unrated 231 Total 1482 The food law risk rating of a food business is based on a number of elements. Hygiene, structure, food safety management and food standards are assessed to determine the risk posed by an establishment and the frequency of intervention by the local authority. These are numerically scored and used to derive the rating that is presented as the 'score', A-E; Category E posing the highest risk. The grouping of the premises is based on the type of foods handled and produced, for example group 1s include exporters and manufacturers, group 3s include retailers and childminders. Table 5: Profile by Health & Safety risk category Risk Category Total number in category A 5 B1 37 B2 716 C 1322 Unrated 7411 Total 2821 1 Unrated premises have not yet been risk rated (new businesses) Page 299 of 366
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17 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC The tables below illustrate the number of inspections programmed for 2026/27 in each risk category for food law. A total of 784 food law programmed interventions are projected for the 12 months commencing 1 April 2026. Table 6: Food Law Programmed Interventions for 2026/2027 GROUP RATING NUMBER Frequency 1 A 11 18 months 1 B 13 12 months 1 C 5 6 months 1 D 0 3 months 1 E 0 1 month TOTAL 29 GROUP RATING NUMBER Frequency 2 A 150 24 months 2 B 173 18 months 2 C 238 12 months 2 D 21 3 months 2 E 0 1 month TOTAL 582 GROUP RATING NUMBER Frequency 3 A 10 No proactive inspections 3 B 128 36 months 3 C 35 24 months 3 D 0 3 months 3 E 0 1 month TOTAL 173 Page 300 of 366
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18 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC The inspection programme for 2026/27 has been developed to comply fully with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) and LAC Circular 67/2 Setting Local Authority Priorities and Targeting Interventions. So far as the inspection of premises outwith normal working hours is concerned, our policy is to ensure that, where premises are only open outwith normal hours, then appropriate provision is made for them to be visited in accordance with at least the minimum number of visits determined by their risk rating. In 2025/26, in consultation with Food Standards Scotland (FSS), and due to the staffing levels, the team temporarily deferred a small number of inspections for group 2 premises. There premises were carefully risk assessed and identified as low risk, with a strong track record of compliance. As staffing levels improved slightly by the end of 2025/26 these deferred inspections were all able to be carried out and were completed by 22nd April 2026. Group 3 premises inspections have been completed using an alternative enforcement approach. These businesses are the lowest risk grouping (generally handling prepacked foods or limited open handling), however when it is identified that there are either changes to foods handled or the Food Business Operator, a full inspection is carried out. 3.2. Food and Health and Safety Service Requests Complaints and Service Requests are dealt with either by the duty Environmental Health Officer or the officer responsible for the premises which are the subject of the complaint/request. All service requests are logged in the APP database against the premises concerned. The service has documented policies relating to the investigation and handling of complaints and service requests which ensure that all complaints are investigated in accordance with the appropriate code of practice. All complaints are recorded and their risk evaluated to distinguish between those which require an on-site investigation and others which may be resolved by telephone or written advice. The numbers of complaints and service requests are detailed by category, for 2025/26 is shown in the table below: Table 7 – Food Complaints and Service Requests 2025/2026 Service Request Category 2025/2026 Advice to Consumer 20 Advice to Business 155 Food Hygiene Complaint 96 Page 301 of 366
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19 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Food premises Complaint 51 Food Standards Complaint 52 Section 50 Certificate applications 24 Building warrant/Planning consultation 5 Licensing Consultation 32 Imported Food 2 Export Certificate 9 New Food Business Advice 247 other 21 Total 714 Chart 1- Summary of Complaints and Service Requests for Food Page 302 of 366
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20 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 8- Health and Safety Complaints and Service Requests 2025/26 Service Request Category 2025/26 Leisure 4 Consumer 4 Retail 1 Catering 4 Hotel 3 Offices 2 Licensing 201 Wholesale 2 Other 6 TOTAL 229 Chart 2- Summary of Complaints and Service Requests for Health and Safety Page 303 of 366
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21 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.3. Investigation of Accidents A procedure is in place for the investigation of notified accidents designed to ensure consistency and quality of the accident investigation service. It is not possible or appropriate to investigate all incidents, and a systematic approach has been adopted to ensure that the more serious incidents are investigated. 3.4. Enforcement Management Model (EMM) The Guidance in the LAC22/18 along with detailed guidance that was issued for use by Environmental Health Officers is used to promote consistency of enforcement between individual officers, LAs and the HSE. All officers in the team have been trained in the use of the Enforcement Management Model. The model is used by officers when considering the most appropriate action to take in more complex situations which are occasionally encountered, including serious accident investigations. It is also used as a monitoring tool by the Senior EHO and Lead Officer- Environmental Health. 3.5. Home Authority Principle & Primary Authority Scheme For companies operating under two or more local council jurisdictions, Primary Authority provides reliable and consistent regulatory advice from a single source when dealing with key aspects of environmental health, trading standards and licensing services. Renfrewshire Council currently has no partnerships in relation to health & safety advice and enforcement. The Primary/Home Authority principle is applied when dealing with food complaint investigations and routinely in relation to food standards and labelling issues. It is considered to be an aid to good enforcement practice. The Council has no formal agreements in place to act as a Home Authority with any specific business, but has listed the following significant establishments as ones which are considered as Home Authority/Originating Authority premises: Page 304 of 366
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22 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 9- Originating Authority Businesses A&A Bakers Moss Road Linwood PA3 3HR DNATA Arran Avenue Paisley PA3 2AY AP Jess Sandyford Road Paisley PA3 4HP Aulds Delicious Desserts Barnsford Avenue Inchinnan PA4 9RG Bidfood Barnwell Street Renfrew PA3 2EU Big Bear Bakery 15 Edison Street Hillington Park G52 4JW Buon Giorno 11A Queen Street Renfrew PA4 8TR Davidson Butcher Mossedge Paisley PA3 3HR Diageo Global Supply 1 Argyll Avenue Renfrew PA4 9EA Diageo Global Supply 500 Renfrew Road Renfrew G51 4SP Filshill Westway Renfrew PA4 8DJ G Porrelli & Co Ltd 25 Lacy Street Paisley PA1 1QN G&A McHarg Dalziel Road Hillington Park G52 4NN Gate Gourmet Glasgow Airport Paisley PA2 8DP Gleddoch Family Butchers 60 Glasgow Road Paisley PA1 13W Hannah's of Johnstone 18-20 Walkinshaw Street Johnstone PA5 8AB Henderson Meats Hillington Glasgow PA8 6BS Ingram Brothers 15 East Lane Paisley PA1 1QA Jenier Limited Earl Haig Road Hillington G52 4JU John Scott Meats Sandyford Paisley PA3 3HR Kismet Lyon Road Linwood PA3 3BQ Kerry Foods (UK) Ltd) 55-59 Kelvin Avenue Hillington Park G52 4LT MacSpice/McAusland Crawford 79/81 Abercorn Street Paisley PA3 4AS Scottish Leather Ltd Kilbarchan Road Bridge Of Weir PA11 3RL Rice 'n' Spicy 15 Edison Street Hillington Park G52 4JW Sutherland Cakes 15-17 Earl Haig Road Hillington G52 5JU Glasgow Distillery Company Deanside Road Renfrew G52 4XB The Elderslie Scottish Tablet Co 37 Glenpatrick Road Elderslie PA5 9AE W P Tulloch 22a Skye Crescent Paisley PA2 8EL Rise and Grind Roastery 104 Abercorn Street Paisley PA34AY Page 305 of 366
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23 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.6. Advice to Business The Environmental Health, Business Regulation Team undertakes an on-going advisory role to all businesses in Renfrewshire. A range of information and promotional material is made available for businesses by Environmental Health Officers during visits. 3.7. FHIS & EatSafe The Food Hygiene Information Scheme continues to operate in Renfrewshire with around 1300 food premises who sell food to the public being included within the scope of the scheme. Currently 98% of premises within Renfrewshire have a pass certificate. There are 12 premises with Eat Safe Awards within Renfrewshire. This is the highest award in the scheme. These are: Table 10 -Eat Safe Award Recipients Premises Name Premises Address Accord Hospice Morton Avenue, Paisley, PA2 7BW Mosswood Care Home Moss Road, Linwood, PA3 3FA Capability Scotland Wallace Court, 191 Main Road, Elderslie, PA5 9EJ Erskine mains Care Home Meadow drive, Erskine, PA8 7ED Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association Newton Court 23 Maree Road, Paisley, PA2 9DH Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association, Ailsa Court 23 Walkinshaw Street, Johnstone, PA5 8AF Hanover(Scotland) Housing Association Orchard Court "Orchard Court", Orchard Street, Renfrew, PA4 8RZ Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association, Walkinshaw Court Walkinshaw street, Johnstone, PA5 8AF Kibble Education & Care Centre Goudie Street, Paisley, PA3 2LG Holiday Inn Caledonia Way, Glasgow Airport PA3 2TE Cochrane Care Home Quarrelton Road, Johnstone, PA5 8LQ Rashilee Care Home Little Inch, 8 Rashilee Avenue, Erskine, PA8 6HA Page 306 of 366
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24 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.8. Sampling Renfrewshire Council, along with nine other local authorities have a Service Level Agreement with Glasgow City Council for the provision of analytical services. The analyst service is provided by Glasgow Scientific Services, Colston Laboratory, 64 Everard Drive, Glasgow G21 1XG. Glasgow Scientific Services are this authority’s appointed Public Analyst for chemical analyses of all food samples, Food Examiner for all microbiological examination of food samples and Agricultural Analyst for all feeding stuffs samples taken. The sampling programme for 2026/27 is attached as Appendix 1 to this Service Plan. The programme will focus on high-risk premises in Renfrewshire, whilst reflecting national priorities recommended by FSS and the Scottish Food enforcement Liaison Committee (SFELC). Food sampling will also be undertaken at Glasgow International Airport to monitor the quality, composition and labelling of foods imported through the airport as part of the Service’s imported food controls. It is not possible to estimate sample numbers or types for such sampling due to the variability of volumes of imported foods which come through the airport. 3.9. Control and Investigation of Outbreaks and Food Related Infectious Diseases Environmental Health works closely with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Consultants in Public Health Medicine in outbreak control situations and the routine investigation of infectious disease. To support this, the health board has produced an outbreak control plan for dealing with major outbreaks of food-related illness to which Renfrewshire Council has had a major input. The Business Regulation Team work in partnership with the Public Health Protection Unit at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board to ensure the plan is adhered to. In addition, an outbreak control and investigation of notifications of food borne disease procedure is in place. Present resources within Environment Health are adequate to meet current levels of notification; however, in the event of a major outbreak, any required additional resources would be made available by seconding Environmental Heath Officers and other staff within the wider service. Page 307 of 366
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25 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.10. Food Incidents Food incidents are dealt with in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland). Notifications of incidents are received from Food Standards Scotland (FSS) by e-mail, phone or through the online system CLIO. In case of emergencies, an officer is on stand-by and has contact details for all relevant members of staff. Procedures for food safety incidents are in place and are available to all staff. This allows for alerts to be appropriately actioned, investigations set in motion and warnings issued if necessary. Any enforcement activity which is required in support of an incident is carried out within the terms of the relevant legislation and the Council’s enforcement policy for assuring the safety of food. In addition to responding to notified incidents, Renfrewshire Council will, where necessary, initiate Food Alerts in accordance with Code of Practice Guidance and will liaise with Food Standards Scotland in such situations. 3.11. Health and Safety Interventions The health and safety programme for 2026/27 has been drawn up having cognisance to LAC Circular 67/2 Setting Local Authority Priorities and Targeting Interventions. (See Table 11) The LAC provides LA’s with guidance and tools for priority planning and targeting of interventions taking a proportionate and consistent risk-based approach to enable Renfrewshire Council to meet the requirements of the National Local Enforcement Authority Code. Planned regulatory activity is focused on improved outcomes and reduced injuries to employees or members of the public. The code provides flexibility for LAs to address local priorities alongside the national priorities set by HSE. A key area of concern in recent times has been electrical safety in retail premises, over the course of this year officers will be undertaking interventions in retail premises regarding the inappropriate use of electrical equipment, installation and maintenance by non-competent persons giving rise to potential electric shock and fire risks. We will be working in partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to ensure businesses are given the necessary support and guidance on their responsibilities in relation to fire safety. Communications materials are being developed jointly between the Council and SFRS to distribute to businesses during these interventions. Table 11 - Health and Safety Priorities 2026/27 Special Interventions/Local Priorities Page 308 of 366
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26 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Inflatable Amusement Devices Trampoline Parks Intervention in catering establishments using LPG appliances due to risk of explosion. Intervention in retail premises regarding the inappropriate use of electrical equipment, installation and maintenance by non-competent persons giving rise to electric shock and fire risks. 3.12. Liaison with Other Organisations To ensure enforcement and other activities carried out by the Service are consistent with neighbouring authorities and to ensure best practice, Renfrewshire Council actively participates in the West of Scotland Food and Health & Safety Liaison Groups. The groups meet regularly throughout the year and comprise representatives from the fourteen authorities, which previously made-up Strathclyde Regional Council, together with representatives from Glasgow Scientific Services, Food Standards Scotland and the Health & Safety Executive. The groups are attended by the Lead Officer- Environmental Health, or a suitable deputy. The service also has formal and informal links to a range of other organisations and agencies. These Include: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Association of Port Health Authorities Royal Environmental Health Institute for Scotland Society of Chief Officers of Environmental Health in Scotland Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland Scottish Food Enforcement Liaison Committee Health Protection Scotland Food Standards Scotland Health & Safety Executive Glasgow Scientific Services Animal and Plant Health Agency Marine Scotland Border Force H.M. Revenue and Customs APP Scottish Users Group Page 309 of 366
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27 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.13. Work Related Death Protocol A Work Related Death Protocol has been developed by the Crown Officer and Procurator Fiscal Service, in conjunction with partner agencies, setting out the principles for effective liaison among relevant parties in relation to work-related deaths in Scotland. In particular, it deals with incidents where, following a death, evidence indicates that a serious criminal offence which falls within the jurisdiction of more than one signatory to the protocol may have been committed. The protocol addresses issues concerning general liaison and is not intended to cover the operational practices of the signatory organisations. This protocol has been developed to emphasise the importance of working together to investigate thoroughly work-related deaths in Scotland, and where appropriate, to prosecute and/or proceed to a fatal accident inquiry. Renfrewshire Council have been asked to sign up to this protocol, and the full document is available on the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service website. Work Related Deaths-A-Protocol For Liasion Page 310 of 366
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28 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 4. Resources 4.1. Financial Allocation The budget detailed below indicates the level of resources available 2026/27 to deliver the necessary services. The resource allocation within the Business Regulation Team is 75% on food law enforcement and 25% on health & safety enforcement. This split is at the discretion of the Lead Food Officer and can be amended to meet service demands. Budget 2026/27 Employee Costs £470,000 Supplies and Services £173,000 Travel and Subsistence £0 Training £2,500 Total £645,500 Projected Income Source 2026/27 Export Health Certificates £420 Certificate of Compliances £1890 Section 50 Certificates £1050 Miscellaneous Income £150 Total £3510 4.2. Staffing Allocation Within the context of this plan, the allocation of staff is designed to provide an effective enforcement service for food law and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council. All Environmental Health Officers and Food Safety Officers are authorised in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) commensurate with their training and experience. A range of additional relevant qualifications are held including: the REHIS Advanced HACCP or equivalent and FFCO Food Competent Certification. Two officers have completed the ISO 9000 Lead Assessors course, and two current Food Law Officers have attended and passed the Official Controls Verification Course. In addition, all Environmental Health Officers are authorised under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 due to having obtained the REHIS Diploma in Environmental Health, which is Page 311 of 366
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29 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC recognised as a suitable qualification for inspectors. One Environmental Health Officer has obtained the NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety and one Officer is currently undergoing this training. The Service secures administrative support from a pool of administrative and support staff in the Council’s Business Support Service. 4 full-time equivalent officers carry out the work of the Business Regulation team, including 1 Senior EHO. The staffing allocation to food law enforcement is 75% of 4 FTE’s, with the other 25% allocated to health & safety enforcement. Officers are allocated premises within specific geographical areas. There has been a reduction in the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) officers from 6.8 in 2024/25. Despite proactive recruitment efforts, attracting qualified officers has proven challenging, a trend mirrored across other local authorities due to a national shortage of suitably trained personnel. To support future capacity, we have put more focus on staff development and succession planning (see 4.2.1). It is considered that the Service has adequate expertise to provide a competent and full portfolio of enforcement and educational roles in relation to food law and health & safety. However, where necessary, we are able to draw on expertise from Food Standards Scotland, Glasgow Scientific Services – the Public Analyst, Health Protection Scotland, the Director of Public Health, Animal and Plant Health Authority (APHA), The Health & Safety Executive and other local authorities. 4.2.1. Staff development This year our trainee EHO and trainee FSO successfully passed their exams and are now working as fully qualified EHO and FSO within the team. To support future capacity, a Senior Technical Officer is being supported to complete their 48-week practical placement, enabling them to progress to the REHIS Diploma examinations in October 2026. Additionally, we are supporting the practical training of an Environmental Health student from the University of the West of Scotland, who is expected to graduate in 2027. We will continue to explore opportunities to develop existing staff and, where an EHO post cannot be filled, recruit Food Safety Officers/Senior Technical Officers with development opportunities. Page 312 of 366
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30 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 4.3. Employee Development Plan The Service is committed to ensuring all officers are suitably qualified, trained and remain competent in terms of the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) and in terms of Section 18 of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974. This is facilitated by the provision of in-house training, and all employees have the opportunity on a rotation basis to attend relevant external training events. Any employee attending such a course is required to “cascade” the relevant information to other officers within the team. Business Regulation Team meetings are held every 3 weeks, where performance, enforcement and other relevant issues are discussed. Matters arising from the quality assessment model for inspections, consistency issues and interpretation issues are discussed. Liaison group minutes are stored in the staff manual for all officers to use. Relevant points from the liaison groups are also discussed at team meetings. In addition, all staff have full access to and are trained in the application of policies and procedures, which are a requirement of the framework agreement on local authority food law enforcement. Training records are maintained for each officer. All officers have completed an individual Personal Development Plan and have had one-to- ones with their manager to discuss any training needs. Page 313 of 366
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31 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 5. Quality Assessment 5.1. Quality Assessment & Internal Monitoring The Service has a documented “Internal Monitoring Procedure – Internal Checks” quality assessment model for inspections. The Senior EHO has primary responsibility for carrying out quality assessments within the Service. The Lead Officer- Environmental Health has a secondary responsibility to oversee the performance of the Senior EHO and to ensure that quality assessments are being carried out consistently throughout the Service. The internal checks include file checks, one-to-one discussions, team discussions and accompanied inspections. Records of these are retained by the Senior EHO and Lead Officer- Environmental Health. This quality assessment model facilitates the Service’s requirement in accordance with Annex 2 of the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) and the Section 18 guidance issued by the HSE to ensure that all staff engaged in enforcement activities retain their competence. The Lead Officer- Environmental Health reviews a monthly report on the performance indicators to ensure that the targets are met. The monthly monitoring report also details performance information relating to inspection deadlines, complaints and service requests received and food sampling activity. Page 314 of 366
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32 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 6. REVIEW 2025-26 6.1. Review of Food Law Activity Group Band Estimated Total Interventions Actual Interventions 1 A 12 18 1 B 12 11 1 C 6 11 1 D 0 0 1 E 0 0 Total 30 40 Group Band Estimated Total Interventions Actual Interventions 2 A 40 166 2 B 289 144 2 C 264 196 2 D 13 38 2 E 0 2 Total 606 546 Group Band Estimated Total Interventions Actual Interventions (including Alternative Intervention) 3 A 3 7 3 B 120 85 3 C 22 18 3 D 1 0 3 E 0 0 Total 146 110 Page 315 of 366
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33 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Group Actual Interventions Food Standards Only N/A 4 Farms N/A 5 Approved Premises N/A 24 New Business Inspections Group1- Group2- Group3- 1 117 31 Advice visits (new businesses etc) n/a 9 Food Complaint visit n/a 33 Businesses Ceased Trading Group1- Group2- Group3- 2 150 48 REVISITS 150 Table 9 - Formal Enforcement Notices Type of Notice Total Remedial Action Notice 16 Hygiene Improvement Notice 12 Voluntary Closure 1 Voluntary Surrender 1 TARP Regulation 17 Notice 2 Programmed Food Hygiene Inspections: The Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) states that” Intervention programmes should be planned so that establishments receive an intervention no later than 28 days after the scheduled date as detailed in Annex 5”. During the period 1/4/25 to 31/3/26 1467 Food Law interventions were carried out. Of these 598 were programmed interventions which need to be completed within 28 days specified in the code of practice. 91.5% of these programmed interventions were completed within the 28 days. 8.5% interventions were not completed within the 28; mainly due to staffing difficulties. Access difficulties for example seasonal operation and issues relating to Page 316 of 366
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34 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC security access for Glasgow Airport is also a contributory factor. All outstanding visits have now been completed or rescheduled for their operational season. 6.2. Review of Sampling activity A total of 53 samples were taken during the period 2025/26: 25 for microbiological examination, of which 0 failed and 28 for chemical/ compositional analysis of which 2 failed to meet compositional standards. (See below): Sample detail Chemical Analysis/Microbi ological Examination Reason for failure Pork Sausage chemical Meat content did not meet the level indicated on the labelling. Lorne Sausage chemical The product contained species of meat not indicated on labelling. Where samples were found to be unsatisfactory, visits to the businesses concerned were undertaken by officers, the results discussed, and advice given in respect of how the sample may have failed and how to ensure compliance in future. Resampling has been arranged. The Sampling Programme including the priorities for 2026/27 are detailed in Appendix 1. Page 317 of 366
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35 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 6.3. Review of Health and Safety activity Review of health and safety activity. In the year 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, the following health and safety interventions were undertaken: Intervention Category Total Accident / incident/Complaint investigations 13 New Premises Interventions 30 Advice visits to Businesses 4 Interventions 28 Revisits 3 Licensing Visits 24 Total Interventions 102 Total number of Health and Safety Notices served 2025/26 Improvement Notices 5 Prohibition Notices 6 6.4. Areas for Improvement Officers have been provided with tablets for use whilst carrying out their duties. This allows for more efficient processing of administration work during and post visits; we continue to review this process and streamline the administrative work. The use of the Power BI system will continue during 2026/27 to assist in performance monitoring and review. The electronic filing system continues to be used with more efficient ways of using it being explored. The Service continues to look at new ways we can utilise digital technology to improve the flow and efficiency of the work within the Business Regulation team. Page 318 of 366
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36 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 7. Emerging Issues 2026/27 Safer The SAFER programme is Food Standards Scotland’s (FSS) reform programme aimed at modernising the delivery of food law in Scotland. Local authorities currently face significant resource pressures and ageing workforce challenges, which has led to risks in effective delivery of food safety controls. The SAFER programme’s aim is to secure improved public health outcomes through model redesign, developing and embracing new and more efficient ways of working, better use of data and digital technologies, and ensuring financial sustainability. Local authority officers involved in the delivery of food law in Scotland will be required to support the SAFER process. This may include attending meetings and completing questionnaires. As a result, officers will need to allocate time away from their routine duties to contribute effectively and help ensure the development of a practical and workable outcome. Food Crime This continues to be a focus for FSS and food authorities with increased food fraudulent activities are being identified, following the Covid pandemic, Brexit and cost of living crisis. This has ongoing resource implications for the service. Food Crime erodes confidence and disempowers consumers, also leading to financial losses, negative economic impact and poses a threat to jobs and exports. Tackling food crime is so Nationally/Internationally important that FSS Food Crime unit was established and the Business Regulation Team already work closely with this unit and will continue to build on the established working relationships with them and other partner agencies. Imports from the European UnionThe challenges and uncertainties relating to imports from the European Union continue to exist. Officers regularly attend meetings in relation to port issues and discussions continue into inland import checks and the impacts that this may have on the service. Page 319 of 366
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37 PUBLIC 8. Appendix 1 – Food Sampling Programme 2026/27 8.1. Introduction The annual sampling programme for 2026-27 is designed to fulfil aims and objectives in line with the Services Food Sampling Policy. The programme outlines the sampling priorities for the year, however it is recognised that circumstances and priorities may change, which require the programme to be flexible to respond to these changing circumstances. Most samples are taken informally for the purpose of monitoring, surveillance and information gathering however; formal samples will be taken where enforcement action is anticipated. Environmental Health Officers, Food Safety Officers and other authorised officers are responsible for undertaking the food sampling functions of the Council. At present there is a Service Level Agreement in place with Glasgow City Council to provide analytical services to Renfrewshire Council. The analyst is: Glasgow Scientific Services, Colston Laboratory, 64 Everard Drive, Glasgow, G21 1XG. 8.2. Approach to Sampling Renfrewshire Council complies with the requirements of the Food Safety (Sampling and Qualifications) Regulations 1990 and the Food Law Code of Practice. The sampling programme for 2026/27 is designed to focus on high risk/high value products which are manufactured in Renfrewshire. Focussing on these items will ensure that those which pose the greatest risk to the public are adequately controlled. 8.2.1. Informal Samples An informal sample may be taken covertly, however; the food business operator will always be informed of the results of the sample where this fails. For enforcement purposes formal sampling must be undertaken overtly. Page 320 of 366
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38 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 8.2.2. Formal Samples In accordance with the Council Integrated Enforcement Policy, which promotes action which is consistent, fair and proportionate, formal samples will generally be taken after routine samples have been found to fail statutory requirements and no satisfactory remedial action has been taken. 8.3. Sampling Priorities Food Standards Scotland and The Scottish Food Enforcement Liaison Committee have identified, through intelligence, the areas deemed to be priorities in terms of sampling. The priority plan considers the Scottish perspective but also takes account of the UK Food Standards Agency priorities. In addition to national priorities, Renfrewshire Council will focus on areas of particular interest to the authority. 8.4. Manufacturing/Approved Premises Renfrewshire Council will continue to concentrate on sampling from manufacturers and approved premises in our area. These premises will be sampled at least annually. Where possible, samples will be taken in advance of Food Hygiene/Food Standards inspections to discuss sample results with the food business operator. 8.5. Complaints and Food Borne Disease Investigations In response to complaints and notifications of food borne disease received the service may opt to take samples in order to resolve any issues arising from any investigations. 8.6. Co-ordinated Sampling Where appropriate, the Service will participate in food surveillance programmes arranged by regional and national bodies such as Food Standards Scotland, SFELC and the West of Scotland Food Liaison Group. Page 321 of 366
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39 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 8.7. Imported Food In order to monitor the quality, composition and labelling of imported foods, samples of foods imported through Glasgow Airport will be submitted to the Public Analyst for examination. 8.8. Special Investigations There may be circumstances whereby an incident will require special investigation and resources may have to be directed towards dealing with the investigation.This may involve liaison with other partners including Health Protection Scotland and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board. 8.9. Sampling Priority Actions The following topics have been identified as priority actions by FSS and will be the subject of sampling activity during 2026/27, along with other local surveillance activities. Description Premises Type Analysis Required Samples agreed Pistachio Nuts Retail Salmonella 1 Botanical/fibre supplements (moringa, green powders, psyllium etc) Retail Salmonella, labelling (inc. health claims) 1 Fresh Herbs Retail Salmonella, STEC, L. monocytogenes, B. cereus 1 RTE sliced meats Retail L. monocytogenes, Hygiene indicators 1 Chilled, dairy- based desserts Small Retailers L. monocytogenes, B. cereus, S. aureus, Salmonella, hygiene indicators 1 Dubai (or Dubai- style) chocolate Retail Salmonella 1 Page 322 of 366
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40 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Plant based meat analogues Retail Aflatoxins, Ochratoxin A, T2 / HT2, Fumonisins, DON, ZON 1 Plant based protein powders Retail Acrylamide 1 Jams, preserves Retail Sulphite (as preservative or allergen), soluble solids, sugar content 1 Oriental-style take aways Caterers Monosodium Glutamate, salt 1 Maize products - corn flakes, taco shells, tortilla chips Retail GMO event MIR-162 1 Pasta Retail Cadmium 1 Oat-based products Retail Mycotoxins – T2, HT2, DON, ZON 1 Slushed ice drinks Retail and Caterers Glycerol 1 Dubai and Dubai style - chocolate Retail Peanut allergen, aflatoxins, labelling 1 Feta cheese Retail Cow’s Milk 1 Tahini Retail Peanut 1 8.10. Routine Sampling The project sampling initiatives listed above will be the focus of sampling activities however, in the course of routine work, officers will take samples as appropriate. This sampling will focus on locally produced foods and manufacturing businesses within Renfrewshire. Page 323 of 366
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41 PUBLIC 9. Appendix 2 -Structure Page 324 of 366
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42 PUBLIC Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR Page 325 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 - Consultation on Packaging, Appearance and Display ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) are seeking views on a number of proposed regulatory controls, which the UK Government and devolved administrations are jointly considering, to tackle smoking, and youth vaping. 1.2 The consultation follows the implementation of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 (The Act); which ratified the Four Nations’ shared intent to create the first “smoke free” generation into UK Law. The Act both updates existing controls, and future proofs existing legislation in relation to new and innovative products, such as herbal smoking products. This provides a framework for consistent controls across the UK, with the addition of regulation-making powers for the devolved Nations, to allow for a co-ordinated response to the risks and harms of tobacco use. 1.3 This consultation outlines proposed restrictions to the packaging, appearance and retail display of tobacco, vaping, nicotine and nicotine-adjacent products which - once finalised - will be implemented under these regulation-making powers. Restrictions posed are similar to those already in place for tobacco, which are designed to reduce visibility and appeal – particularly to children and young persons. In particular, the consultation suggests the following: • “Plain” packaging requirements for all such products – limited by packaging size, font size and colour (pantone 448C- drab dark brown), • Restrictions on flavouring, including the description of same, • Display restrictions for products other than tobacco (which is already controlled), such as cigarette papers and vaping products, • Design restrictions on products, such as in relation to colours, branding or novel appearance. Item 15 Page 326 of 366
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PUBLIC 1.4 The relevant enforcement authority for the retail and manufacture aspects of the Act is the local weights & measures authority (Trading Standards), and any proposed changes by Regulation would likely confer additional statutory duties on same. Renfrewshire Council’s Scheme of Delegated Functions is being updated, accordingly. 1.5 While the proposals align with public health objectives, they will significantly increase enforcement responsibilities for local authority Trading Standards services for a number of years, through Officer training, business support and engagement, and increased inspection and enforcement activity alongside competing priorities. Sufficient and sustainable funding will be key to the success of these restrictions, as this demand cannot be met from current budget and staffing levels. 1.6 The final date for submissions to the consultation is 2 October 2026. Renfrewshire Council are supportive of the proposals to restrict the packaging, appearance and retails display of these products; however have concerns relating to the additional duties this will place on Services. The proposed response is attached as Appendix 1. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Agrees the consultation responses at Appendix 1. 2.2 Authorises the Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure to submit the response prior to the closing date of 2 October 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 Nicotine products are legal products for adult use in the UK. Smoking tobacco however, is stated to be the single-most preventable cause of ill- health, disability, and death in the UK, being responsible for around 80,000 deaths per year. All tobacco products are harmful, being classified as type- one carcinogens, and there is no safe level of tobacco consumption. No other consumer product has the potential to cause premature death for up to two- thirds of its users, when used as intended. In 2024, the Office for National Statistics reported that 5.3 million people in the UK were active smokers. This represented 10.6% of the UK population overall, and 12% of the population in Scotland. 3.2 While existing legislative controls have reduced the uptake of tobacco use in younger persons, the use of alternative nicotine delivery systems such as Nicotine Vapour Products (NVPs, e-cigarettes or “vapes”) has grown at a concerning rate. Page 327 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.3 In Renfrewshire, there are around 315 businesses currently registered for the sale of tobacco, or NVPs, or both. Businesses must register with Scottish Government to sell these products, and compliance with this requirement - along with other regulatory controls - is enforced by officers in Trading Standards. 3.4 Implemented in late April 2026, the Tobacco & Vapes Act 2026 provides a framework for consistent controls across the UK, with the addition of regulation-making powers for the devolved Nations to further restrict the packaging, appearance and retail display of tobacco, vaping, nicotine and nicotine-adjacent products. From 1 January 2027, the Act ensures that people born on or after 1 January 2009 will never legally be able to be sold tobacco products. In effect, this raises the smoking age by a year, every year, until this restriction applies to the whole population. The Act also closes a legislative gap by providing that non-nicotine vapes, and nicotine pouches, are now age- restricted for sale to age 18, from 29 October 2026. 3.5 Evidence indicates that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking in the short to medium term, as vaping products do not contain tobacco and do not produce carbon monoxide. Consequently, users are exposed to substantially lower levels of harmful substances than those associated with tobacco products. There is also established evidence that vaping can support smoking cessation among adult smokers, particularly when used alongside behavioural support programmes. Vaping however, is not without risk and the longer-term health impacts are still not known. As such, the current public health position remains that adult smokers should consider cessation by switching to vaping as a less harmful alternative, whilst people who do not smoke should not take up vaping. The consultation proposals are therefore intended to strike a balance between supporting adult smokers to quit, and reducing the appeal of vaping products to children and young people. 3.6 The extensive suite of restrictions outlined in the consultation are designed to reduce the attractiveness and appeal of these products by means of restricting colours, branding, product design and retail display options in line with existing controls on tobacco products in the UK. 3.7 Officers are broadly supportive of the proposals in the consultation which support stated public health objectives and present a real opportunity to discourage youth vaping. It should be noted however, that the ongoing changes in this sector pose a significant duty on both business and on Trading Standards services. 3.8 Retailers and regulators will need to work together through any implementation schedule, to understand and apply the changes. Retailers, wholesalers and distributors will be required to adapt to new packaging and display requirements. Financial implications for businesses will include product replacement and stock management costs, changes to point of sale displays and staff training requirements. Trading Standards services will require to engage with businesses to ensure understanding of requirements, ensure implementation through retail monitoring, complaint investigation and enforcement where required to ensure sectoral compliance. Effective, clear guidance and realistic implementation timescales will therefore be important. Page 328 of 366
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – regulation of this sector will ensure that retailers maintain high standards, are effectively regulated and will reduce the negative impacts on legitimate businesses from non-compliant retailers. • Our Renfrewshire is well – the proposal for a smokefree future will reduce preventable deaths in Renfrewshire by around 650 per year. There will also be a significant reduction in demand for associated health services. • Creating a sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy – there may be environmental benefits through the reduction of tobacco and vaping- related litter, packaging waste and discarded vaping devices. 4. Legal –The Scheme of Delegated Functions requires to be updated to include the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights – (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None. Page 329 of 366
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PUBLIC 12. Climate Risk – While the primary purpose of the consultation is to improve public health outcomes, there may be secondary environmental benefits through the reduction of tobacco and vaping-related litter, packaging waste and discarded vaping devices. The proposals are not expected to have a significant impact on the Council's strategic climate change risks or net zero objectives but may contribute indirectly to wider sustainability and environmental quality outcomes. 13. Children’s Rights - The proposal for a smoke free future will limit and ultimately prevent children from ever being legally permitted to purchase tobacco products which will have a positive impact on the future health of future generations. Restrictions on Nicotine Vapour Products will reduce their appeal to children and therefore discourage them from making use of these products. 14. COSLA Policy Position – N/A. List of Background Papers (a) Background Papers – Report to Communities & Housing Policy Board on 16 January 2024 titled Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping – a consultation by the Department of Health & Social Care ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Faye Wilson, Lead Officer (Trading Standards) Email: faye.wilson@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 330 of 366
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PUBLIC APPENDIX 1 Consultation response – Tobacco and Vapes: Packaging, Appearance and Display 1. Tobacco packaging 1.1 Proposals for further plain packaging requirements Q1.1A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce the plain packaging requirements outlined above for all tobacco products? This does not include cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco which already have strict plain packaging requirements. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging requirements have acknowledged effects on appeal for existing tobacco products. These requirements are in place for tobacco products in many countries worldwide, and in some places go further than UK requirements. Q1.1B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce the plain packaging requirements outlined above for heated tobacco devices? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. While representing a relatively small proportion of existing used product, standardisation across all tobacco products makes sense to future proof regulatory provisions. Q1.1C - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce the plain packaging requirements outlined above for herbal smoking products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Products which form a “gateway” to the uptake of any nicotine product should be considered accordingly. Q1.1D - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce the plain packaging requirements outlined above for cigarette papers? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. These requirements are in place for tobacco products in many countries worldwide, so global manufacturing burden should be lessened. Page 331 of 366
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PUBLIC 1.2 Text health warnings on the packaging of heated tobacco devices and cigarette papers Q1.2A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce text health warnings on the packaging of heated tobacco devices? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. While representing a relatively small proportion of existing used product, standardisation across all tobacco products makes sense to future proof regulatory provisions. Q1.2B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce text health warnings on the packaging of cigarette papers? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Standardisation across all tobacco products makes sense to enforce health messaging. 1.3 Picture health warnings on the packaging of more products and devices Q1.3A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce picture health warnings on the packaging of all tobacco products? This builds on requirements that are already in place for most tobacco products. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Standardisation across all tobacco products will enforce health messaging. Q1.3B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce picture health warnings on the packaging of heated tobacco devices? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Despite forming a relatively small proportion of existing used product, standardisation across all tobacco products will enforce health messaging. Q1.3C - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce picture health warnings on the packaging of herbal smoking products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal in principle and note that picture health warnings may need to reflect the direct risks of each product to be meaningful, and that these health risks may not yet be known. As a gateway product however, consideration of standardisation across all sectoral products will enforce health messaging. Page 332 of 366
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PUBLIC Q1.3D - Do you agree or disagree that picture health warnings should not be required on the packaging of cigarette papers? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Renfrewshire Council do not propose including picture health warnings on cigarette papers due to the small size of the packaging. 1.4 Pack inserts in packaging for all tobacco and herbal smoking products and heated tobacco devices Q1.4A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce pack inserts for all tobacco products? This does not include cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco which we are addressing separately to this consultation. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. It is noted that evidence has been gathered to suggest that pack inserts can have a positive effect on tobacco cessation. This supports the move towards a smoke- free UK. Q1.4B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce pack inserts for heated tobacco devices? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. While representing a small proportion of used product, it makes sense to standardise messaging across all tobacco use products to reinforce health and cessation messaging. Q1.4C - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce pack inserts for herbal smoking products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. As a gateway product, consideration of standardisation across all sectoral products will enforce health messaging. Q1.4D - Do you agree or disagree that pack inserts should not be required in the packaging of cigarette papers? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Renfrewshire Council do not propose including pack inserts for cigarette papers due to the small size of the packaging. Page 333 of 366
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PUBLIC 1.5 Time allowed to implement new packaging requirements Q1.5A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposed implementation period of no less than 12 months (from when the detail of any new requirements is clear)? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The shortest possible timeline should be sought for all requirements; however it is understood that a shorter timescale is impractical. 2. Heated tobacco device appearance 2.1 Restricting the colour and finish of heated tobacco devices Q2.1A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the colour of heated tobacco devices to Pantone 448C (drab dark brown) with an opaque matt finish? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging requirements have acknowledged effects on appeal for existing tobacco products. The pantone is known to be unappealing, and requiring the devices themselves to be this colour is likely to discourage use. Consistency of pantone with existing tobacco products reinforces the messaging of tobacco being harmful, and discouraged. Q2.1B - Do you agree or disagree that heated tobacco devices should be banned from having cosmetic lights? This will not apply to functional lights, like those that indicate charge level. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Any aspects of “novelty” should be removed to make these products less appealing. 2.2 Restricting branding, imagery and artwork on heated tobacco devices Q2.2A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict all branding, imagery and artwork on heated tobacco devices? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Any aspects of “novelty” on devices should be restricted to make these products less appealing. Page 334 of 366
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PUBLIC 2.3 Restricting digital screens on heated tobacco devices Q2.3A - Do you agree or disagree that digital screens on heated tobacco devices should be restricted to only the display of safety and status information such as battery level, and be greyscale in colour (black, white and grey only)? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This is forward-looking and ensures that device displays cannot be used for novelty appeal. 2.4 Stopping heated tobacco devices imitating other products Q2.4A - Do you agree or disagree that heated tobacco devices should not be permitted to mimic the design of other products and items? The objective of this proposal is to limit the appeal or attractiveness of heated tobacco devices. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. As an example, existing variations on design of vaping products has increased the appeal for many users, but particularly children. Items found locally include fidget spinner designs, or designs mimicking popular drinks brands. 2.5 Time allowed to implement new device requirements Q2.5A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposed implementation period of no less than 12 months (from when the detail of any new requirements is clear)? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The shortest possible timeline should be sought for all requirements; however it is understood that a shorter timescale is impractical. 3. Vaping and nicotine product packaging and flavour descriptors Definition of vaping products Throughout this section, we refer to ‘vaping products’. This includes vapes, as well as other vape components and refill containers sold separately from the device. 3.1 Restricting the colour on packaging for all vaping and nicotine products Q3.1A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the colour of packaging of all vaping products to white? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging is likely to reduce both appeal and uptake. Restricting the colour of packaging to white ensures the products are seen as less harmful than tobacco, so their use as a cessation device in particular is not discouraged. Page 335 of 366
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PUBLIC Q3.1B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the colour of packaging of all nicotine products to white? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Consistency of colour with vaping products ensures the products are seen as less harmful than tobacco, so their use in cessation is not discouraged. 3.2 Restricting imagery, branding, text and other promotional features Q3.2A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce the restrictions to imagery, branding, text and promotional features outlined above for the packaging of all vaping products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging is likely to reduce both appeal and uptake. Standardisation removes any route for variation between product which could form a type of branding. Renfrewshire Council would support exemption for a basic outline of the product inside, for product compatibility selection purposes. Q3.2B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce the restrictions to imagery, branding, text and promotional features outlined above for the packaging of all nicotine products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging is likely to reduce both appeal and uptake of these products. Renfrewshire Council would support exemption for a basic outline of the product inside, for product selection purposes. 3.3 Restricting the shape, materials and safety features of packaging for all vaping and nicotine products Q3.3A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that packaging for all vaping products should have uniform shapes, and that there should be restrictions on materials and finishes that can enhance appeal? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging removes any route for variation between product which could enhance appeal. Q3.3B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that packaging for all nicotine products should have uniform shapes, and that there should be restrictions on materials and finishes that can enhance appeal? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Plain packaging removes any route for variation between product which could enhance appeal. Page 336 of 366
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PUBLIC Q3.3C - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that packaging for all vaping products should be both child-resistant and tamper-evident? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This restriction would be an important product safety improvement, and reinforces the messaging that these products are not for children. Q3.3D - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that packaging for all nicotine products should be both child-resistant and tamper-evident? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This restriction would be an important product safety improvement, as small levels of nicotine can be highly toxic to children. 3.4 Restricting flavour descriptions on vaping and nicotine products packaging Single lead flavour Q3.4A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict flavour descriptors on the packaging of all vaping products to a single lead flavour? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Q3.4B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict flavour descriptors on the packaging of all nicotine products to a single lead flavour? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Concept, sensory, food and drink categories Q3.4C - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that concept and sensory flavour descriptors should be restricted on the packaging of all vaping products? Renfrewshire Council agree with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Q3.4D - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that concept and sensory flavour descriptors should be restricted on the packaging of all nicotine products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Page 337 of 366
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PUBLIC Q3.4E - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that confectionery, sweets, dessert and cake name descriptors should be restricted on the packaging of all vaping products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Q3.4F - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that confectionery, sweets, dessert and cake name descriptors should be restricted on the packaging of all nicotine products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Q3.4G - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that alcohol and drink name descriptors should be restricted on the packaging of all vaping products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. Q3.4H - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal that alcohol and drink name descriptors should be restricted on the packaging of all nicotine products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal and notes that this can reduce child appeal, without discouraging adult use for cessation. 3.5 Product information on and inside vaping and nicotine products packaging Q3.5A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to require the consumer information listed above on and inside the packaging of all vaping products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The product information outlined will support consumer choice, alongside health warnings. Mandating specific requirements for nicotine strength, age restriction and waste disposal guidance will help to ensure products are being treated correctly throughout their lifecycle. Q3.5B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to require the consumer information listed above on and inside the packaging of all nicotine products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The product information outlined will support consumer choice, alongside health warnings. Mandating specific requirements – in particular around age restriction which is a new requirement for many nicotine products (e.g. pouches) will ensure products are being treated correctly throughout their lifecycle. Page 338 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.6 Time allowed to implement new packaging requirements Q3.6A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposed implementation period of no less than 12 months (from when the detail of any new requirements is clear)? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The shortest possible timeline should be sought for all requirements; however it is understood that a shorter timescale is likely to be impractical. 4. Vape device appearance 4.1 Restricting the colour and finish of vapes Q4.1A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to limit the colour of a vaping device (including all visible parts) to white, black or grey with a matt finish? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Restricting the colour of the body of devices to opaque, neutral colours (black, grey, white) with a matte finish removes appeal for children and young persons. Q4.1B - Do you agree or disagree that vape devices should be banned from having cosmetic lights? This would not apply to functional lights, such as those that indicate charge level. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Any aspects of “novelty” should be removed to make these products less appealing. 4.2 Restricting branding, imagery, and artwork on vapes Q4.2A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict all branding, imagery and artwork on vapes? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Any aspects of “novelty” on the device itself should be removed to make these products less appealing. Page 339 of 366
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PUBLIC 4.3 Restricting the digital screens on vapes Q4.3A - Do you agree or disagree that digital screens on vapes should be restricted to only the display of safety and status information such as battery level, and be greyscale in colour (black, white and grey only)? This would not include lights that indicate status information, such as when the device is being recharged. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Any permissible variation on a standardised product can be exploited for branding purposes. As such, any aspects of “novelty” should be removed or restricted to make these products less appealing. 4.4 Stopping vapes imitating other products Q4.4A - Do you agree or disagree that vapes should not be permitted to mimic the design of other products and items? The objective of this proposal is to limit the appeal or attractiveness of vapes. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. Existing variations on design of vaping products has increased the appeal for many users, but particularly children. Examples found locally include fidget spinner designs, or designs mimicking popular drinks brands. 4.5 Time allowed to implement new device requirements Q4.5A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposed implementation period of no less than 12 months (from when the detail of any new requirements is clear)? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The shortest possible timeline should be sought for all requirements; however it is understood that a shorter timescale is likely to be impractical. 5. Retail display 5.1 Requested temporary and incidental displays in England, Wales and Northern Ireland Not applicable to Scotland 5.2 Restricting the retail display of cigarette papers, heated and other tobacco- related devices and herbal smoking products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland Not applicable to Scotland. Page 340 of 366
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PUBLIC 5.3 Retail display of prices for cigarette papers, heated and other tobacco- related devices and herbal smoking products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland Not applicable to Scotland. 5.4 Exemptions to display restrictions for tobacco products, cigarette papers, tobacco-related devices and herbal smoking products in England, Wales and Northern Ireland Not applicable to Scotland. 5.5 Display exemptions for trade premises Not applicable to Scotland. 5.6 Display exemptions for specialist tobacconists Not applicable to Scotland. 5.7 Display exemptions for bulk tobacconists Not applicable to Scotland. 5.8 Retail display of tobacco products, smoking-related products, heated tobacco devices and herbal smoking products in Scotland Tobacco products and smoking-related products Q5.8A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to introduce a legal requirement that the requested temporary display of tobacco products and smoking-related products must take place from behind a sales counter? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures incidental display to other persons is minimised as far as possible. Heated tobacco devices and herbal smoking products Q5.8B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of heated tobacco devices? This would include the requirement that their requested temporary display must take place from behind a sales counter. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures any display to other persons is minimised as far as possible. Page 341 of 366
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PUBLIC Q5.8C - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of herbal smoking products? This would include the requirement that their requested temporary display must take place from behind a sales counter. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures any display to other persons is minimised as far as possible. Q5.8D - Do you agree or disagree that the maximum visible area of display unit permitted as a result of a requested or incidental display of herbal smoking products or heated tobacco devices in Scotland should be 0.1 square metres? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures any display to other persons is minimised as far as possible, in line with restrictions on other tobacco products. Waterpipes Q5.8E - If we expand the area of display, what size do you think it should be increased to? 0.5 square metres. This allows for a reasonable increase in requested/incidental display size. These products are normally supplied in shisha cafes or online, so the risk of children or young persons seeing such a display is minimal. Smoking-related products Q5.8F - Do you agree or disagree that the current list of smoking-related products reflects all tobacco-related devices used for smoking currently available to purchase? Renfrewshire Council agrees that this definition reflects all legal smoking-related products available for purchase. 5.9 Display of prices for heated tobacco devices and herbal smoking products in Scotland Q5.9A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of prices of heated tobacco devices? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings pricing requirements into line with other tobacco products. Retailers are used to these provisions for cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco, and the legislation allows for a choice of 3 pricing formats. This proposal ensures any opportunity for display or branding is minimised as far as possible, in line with restrictions on other tobacco products. Page 342 of 366
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PUBLIC Q5.9B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of prices for herbal smoking products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other smoking products, and ensures opportunities for display or branding are minimised as far as possible, in line with restrictions on tobacco products. 5.10 Exemptions to display regulations for tobacco products, smoking-related products, heated tobacco devices and herbal smoking products in Scotland Display exemptions for trade premises Q5.10A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to allow for the display of heated tobacco devices and prices in relevant trade premises in Scotland? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other smoking products. Q5.10B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to allow for the display of herbal smoking products and prices in relevant trade premises in Scotland? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other smoking products. 5.11 Display exemptions for specialist tobacconists Q5.11A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to allow for the display of heated tobacco devices and prices in specialist tobacconists in Scotland? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other smoking products. Q5.11B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to allow for the display of herbal smoking products and prices inside specialist tobacconists in Scotland? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other smoking products. 5.12 Display exemptions for bulk tobacconists Q5.12A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to remove and not replicate the bulk tobacconist exemption for all products in scope of this consultation? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal Page 343 of 366
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PUBLIC Definition of vaping products Throughout this section, we refer to ‘vaping products’. This includes vapes, as well as other vape components and refill containers sold separately from the device. 5.13 Restricting the display of vaping and nicotine products across the UK Q5.13A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of vaping products? This would include the requirement that their requested temporary display must take place from behind a sales counter. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures incidental display to other persons is minimised as far as possible. Q5.13B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of nicotine products? This would include the requirement that their requested temporary display must take place from behind a sales counter. Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The proposal to restrict the display of other nicotine products such as “pouches” ensures incidental display to other persons is minimised as far as possible. Q5.13C - Do you agree or disagree that the requested temporary or incidental display of vaping and nicotine products should not result in the display of tobacco products (and smoking-related products in Scotland), cigarette papers, heated and other tobacco devices or herbal smoking products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. 5.14 Display of prices of vaping and nicotine products across the UK Q5.14A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of prices for vaping products, and allow for additional information on nicotine strength and ingredients? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures consistency across all defined tobacco, nicotine and non- nicotine products. Permitting nicotine strength and ingredients of these products allows for consumer choice, and previous proposals around packaging will see that this information is freely available to traders wishing to include these. Specifying that price lists for tobacco products and vaping products must be separate reflects the level of harm/risk. Page 344 of 366
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PUBLIC Q5.14B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to restrict the display of prices for nicotine products and allow for additional information on nicotine strength and ingredients? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal ensures consistency across all defined tobacco, nicotine and non- nicotine products including “pouches” and similar. 5.15 Exemptions to display restrictions of vaping and nicotine products across the UK Q5.15A - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to allow for the display of vaping products in relevant trade premises? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other related products. Q5.15B - Do you agree or disagree with our proposal to allow for the display of nicotine products in relevant trade premises? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. This proposal brings these products into line with other related products. 5.16 Exemptions to display restrictions for vaping and nicotine products in pharmacies in England, Wales and Scotland Q5.16A - Do you agree or disagree that community pharmacies in England, Wales and Scotland should be permitted an exemption to allow for the limited display of vaping and nicotine products? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The setting helps to reiterate that these products are a cessation or medical device, rather than a recreational product. 5.17 Time allowed to implement all new display restrictions Q5.17A - Do you agree with our proposal that there should be a minimum of 6 months’ notice (from when the detail if any new requirements is clear)? Renfrewshire Council agrees with this proposal. The shortest possible timeline should be sought for all requirements. While it’s appreciated that a tight timescale on display restrictions may mean some retailers require to use temporary methods to conceal these products, this allows the manufacturing sector to catch up while providing public health benefits as soon as possible. A shorter timescale is likely to be impractical for both retail and for regulators. Page 345 of 366
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Fireworks & Pyrotechnics in the UK – Consultation by the Office for Product Safety & Standards ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The Office for Product Safety and Standards, part of the Department for Business and Trade, is seeking views on proposed reforms to reserved legislation concerning the categorisation of fireworks and pyrotechnic articles. The proposed changes would recategorise a number of products in order to help address the harm, injury and disruption that can arise from their misuse. This follows work carried out by both Westminster and Scottish Governments to review this sector, and ongoing campaigns by both administrations to promote the safe use of fireworks. 1.2 The regulatory landscape for fireworks is complex, with both reserved and devolved legislation restricting these products in different ways across the UK. The open consultation on Fireworks and Pyrotechnics in the UK seeks views on proposed reforms which will amend existing reserved legislation - The Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015 - which currently categorises fireworks and pyrotechnic articles, according to their risk during intended use. In particular, the consultation suggests the following: • Restriction of louder fireworks to professional displays only, • Expanding the list of products not permissible for domestic use, and • Reviewing lower risk products to reclassify these to better reflect the current risk they pose. Item 16 Page 346 of 366
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PUBLIC 1.3 Proposed restrictions represent a balance between the rights of both those who support, and those who do not support, the domestic, consumer use of fireworks. Specifically, the proposals seek to preserve the enjoyment of fireworks for celebrations, while preventing harm and distress to others caused by unpredictable noise disturbance and anti-social behaviour. Importantly, a focus of the consultation is public order, with misuse of these products against emergency services being noted as a key concern. 1.4 While this will create an additional enforcement duty for local authority services, this is an amendment to an already well-established regulatory regime. Businesses involved in the supply of these products are already registered with the local authority, and annual inspections take place. Clear guidelines and information for the retail sector will reduce that burden further. 1.5 The final date for submissions to the consultation is 7 October 2026. A response will be submitted by the Council within the timescales set, following this Board. The proposed response is attached as Appendix 2. Renfrewshire Council are supportive of the proposals to re-categorise lower risk fireworks and to seek to limit the noise level on all fireworks available for consumer use. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Agrees the consultation response at Appendix 2. 2.2 Authorises the Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure to submit the response prior to the closing date of 7 October 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The regulatory landscape for fireworks is complex, with both reserved and devolved legislation restricting these products in different ways across the UK. Regulated factors include safety or storage requirements, risk categorisation, age restriction for sale or supply, and where or when fireworks may be used. Regulators with an interest in the enforcement of these restrictions include Police Scotland, the Health & Safety Executive, and local authority services such as Environmental Health, Trading Standards and Community Safety. Page 347 of 366
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PUBLIC 3.2 Polling undertaken by the Office for Product Safety & Standards in 2021 and 2025 suggests divided opinion on the consumer use of fireworks. In 2021, 61% of respondents stated that they personally enjoy the use of fireworks, with 45% having attended a display of some kind in the preceding year. Conversely, many respondents reported increasing public disquiet with the use of fireworks, with incidents of anti-social behaviour being cited as having increased by over 30% between 2021 and 2025. The disturbance to peace and quiet was noted as a concern by 71% of respondents in 2025, up by 16% from 2021. Over 50% of those polled also reported fireworks being set off outwith permitted hours, which suggests that existing legislative controls to minimise disturbance from these products are not sufficient. 3.3 In Renfrewshire, there are 20 businesses currently registered for the storage and periodic supply of fireworks. One such business is also involved in delivering professional displays. Businesses involved in general retail sale must register with the local authority to store up to 250kg net explosive quantity. These requirements are administered and enforced by Trading Standards in Renfrewshire. 3.4 Officers are supportive of the proposals in the consultation which offer an opportunity to tackle growing public concerns, while still allowing for significant enjoyment of these products in a responsible way. 3.5 Retailers and regulators will need to work together through any implementation schedule, to understand and apply the changes. Retailers, wholesalers and distributors will be required to adapt to new packaging and labelling requirements. Trading Standards will have a key role in engaging with businesses to promote understanding of the requirements and support effective implementation. This will include retail monitoring, investigation of complaints and the use of enforcement powers where necessary to ensure compliance across the sector. Effective, clear guidance and realistic implementation timescales will therefore be important to all involved parties. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – • Our Renfrewshire is thriving – robust restrictions promote safer and more sustainable community celebrations, reducing costs associated with enforcement and emergency response, and helping to maintain attractive, safe places in which people live, work and visit. • Our Renfrewshire is well – proposals address concerns around noise disturbance, anxiety and impacts on vulnerable residents, including older people, those with sensory sensitivities and animal owners. Page 348 of 366
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PUBLIC • Our Renfrewshire is fair – changes will reduce the disproportionate impact that nuisance fireworks can have on vulnerable communities and those already experiencing disadvantage • Our Renfrewshire is safe – outcomes seek to reduce firework-related injuries, antisocial behaviour, attacks on emergency workers and risks to public safety 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights – (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – None. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – None. 12. Climate Risk – While the primary purpose of the consultation is to address some of the key harms associated with the misuse of fireworks, improve public health outcomes, there may be limited and indirect climate benefits associated with proposals. These include a reduction in fire risk to greenspaces and biodiversity assets during periods of hot and dry weather, improved local air quality during peak fireworks periods and reduced pressure on emergency services. 13. Children’s Rights - Implementation of the proposed restrictions on fireworks will reduce the potential negative impacts which higher risk fireworks pose for children, including antisocial behaviour associated with their misuse. 14. COSLA Policy Position – N/A. List of Background Papers None ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Faye Wilson, Lead Officer (Trading Standards) Email: faye.wilson@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 349 of 366
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PUBLIC APPENDIX 1 CLASSIFICATION TYPES OF FIREWORKS AND PYROTECHNIC ARTICLES UNDER REVIEW Category Definition Noise Pressure Level F1 Fireworks which present a very low hazard and negligible noise level, and which are intended for use in confined areas, including inside domestic buildings e.g. crackers, party poppers. Must not exceed 120 dBAimp at an advised standing distance of 1m. F2 Fireworks which present a low hazard and low noise level, and which are intended for outdoor use in confined areas such as private gardens e.g. roman candles, rockets. Must not exceed 120 dBAimp at an advised standing distance of 8m. F3 Fireworks which present a medium hazard, which are intended for outdoor use in large open areas and whose noise level is not harmful to human health e.g. larger scale amateur displays Must not exceed 120 dBAimp at an advised standing distance of 25m. F4 Fireworks which present a high hazard, which are intended for use only by ‘persons with specialist knowledge’ and whose noise level is not harmful to human health e.g. large scale, professional, public displays. No limit but the noise level must not be harmful to human health. P1 Pyrotechnic articles, other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, which present a low hazard e.g. coloured smoke bombs. The pyrotechnic article must be designed in such a way as to minimise risk to health, property and the environment from debris when initiated inadvertently. P2 Pyrotechnic articles, other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, which are intended for handling or use only by persons with specialist knowledge e.g. bird scarers, airbag detonation systems. The pyrotechnic article must be designed in such a way as to minimise risk to health. Requires appropriate storage facilities and insurance coverage. Page 350 of 366
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PUBLIC APPENDIX 2 Consultation response – Fireworks and Pyrotechnics in the UK Section 1 – Updating the banned list and reviewing the regulation of F1 and P2 products • Proposal 1 – updating the banned list of F2 and F3 fireworks Q1: Are there any other particular F2 and F3 fireworks products that you think the general public should not be allowed to buy? We do not hold any data on specific firework types linked to misuse locally. Our data from public reports is more anecdotal in nature, alleging that low- cost fireworks are more likely to be purchased and misused by young persons in anti-social disruptive incidents. We do not hold any data on specific fireworks linked to injuries locally. We have however, received reports of “near misses” whereby consumers have misunderstood instructions for use on fireworks with a larger explosive composition which has led to fireworks being fired horizontally, rather than vertically. The bulk of concerns reported by the public and to/by Elected Members relate to noise, and pet welfare concerns. While noise limited fireworks may not eradicate all these concerns, they would certainly allow for more of a compromise between those who enjoy, and those who are disturbed by, the noise of fireworks. Q2: If more products are added to the regulation 33 banned list, what consequences might there be for consumers, industry, enforcement authorities, professional users, and others? While fireworks are a legal consumer product, it is likely that reducing consumer availability will have more positive effects on communities than negative effects. Enquiries and complaints to Trading Standards and Community Safety services invariably mention low noise options, or a “ban” on consumer supply. Public displays are mentioned as being preferred as a “safe” option which allows for those who do not enjoy to at least predict the period in which to expect disruption. A reduction on availability of some products – particularly those currently within F3 – will almost certainly lower the risk of injury or fire, which in turn will reduce the demand on emergency services. A negative consequence may be that this could cause a “black market” in fireworks made unavailable to consumers by means of re-categorisation. This will cause additional enforcement burdens on regulators such as Trading Standards. Border controls will require to be increased to prevent incursion of old stock, and consumer awareness will have to be managed if there is a sell-through (and therefore use) period of old stock. Page 351 of 366
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PUBLIC Q3: Do you agree that regulation 33(1)(g) should be amended to make explicit that a firework comprising more than one shot tube is banned from sale to the general public? We agree with this proposal. Trading Standards have previously received reports of “near misses” due to accidental misreading of instructions on these specific products. Clear drafting will be required to allow for effective enforcement of the restrictions, and to reduce disputes over interpretation. The restrictions will need to be stated plainly and clearly in the legislation to best assist compliance by the retail sector. • Proposal 2 – reviewing the regulations on F1 and P1 products so they are proportionate and effective Q4: Do you agree that the age limit for purchasing Christmas crackers should be removed? We agree with this proposal. We hold no recorded complaints or enquiries in relation to safety or misuse of Christmas Crackers. These products have minimal explosive content, and present a very low risk. Retaining the age limit for sale, but removing the legal requirement to age check would relieve an unnecessary burden on retail to maintain an age verification system for these products. Parental supervision messaging should remain. Q5: Are there any other specific F1 and P1 pyrotechnics that should have their regulatory requirements increased or decreased? The possession and use of pyrotechnic articles (such as smoke bombs or flares) is restricted in Scotland under the Fireworks & Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022. As these aspects are enforced by Police Scotland, we do not hold any data on whether these restrictions have had a demonstrable effect on use. The lack of restriction on retail sale or supply to the general public however, means that items are still freely available for misuse. In particular this can be seen at football events in larger cities, and this poses a safety threat for both the public and emergency services. Any restrictions considered should however allow for current legitimate use in events such as religious ceremonies or marriages, or running events where colour is a feature. Page 352 of 366
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PUBLIC Section 2 – Reducing noise impacts • Proposal 3 – reducing fireworks noise Q6: Do you agree the decibel level of fireworks consumers use should be lowered? Yes, to 90 db (A,imp) (reducing perceived loudness by approximately seven- eights) We consider that the decibel level should be reduced to the lowest level possible for consumer firework products. For garden displays, the effect should be about the visuals from fireworks given the domestic setting. Given the proximity of these products to audiences, reducing the permitted noise level to 90 dB(A)(Imp), broadly comparable to a lawnmower or power tool, would still result in them remaining loud and clearly audible. However, this reduction would provide significant relief to residents and animals affected by firework noise. Q7: What might be the positive impacts of reducing the maximum decibel level of fireworks available to the general public? While fireworks are a legal consumer product, it is likely that reducing noise limits will have more positive effects on communities than negative effects. Enquiries and complaints to Trading Standards and Community Safety services invariably mention low noise options, or a “ban” on consumer supply. Public displays (if available) will still be able to access and utilise fireworks with a greater explosive content, with the added benefit of allowing those who do not enjoy the noise aspect to at least predict the period in which to expect disruption. Q8: What might be the negative impacts of reducing the maximum decibel level of fireworks available to the general public? Many areas in Scotland do not have any organised displays available for the public during fireworks period, including Renfrewshire. If citizens do prefer louder fireworks for any reason there will be no routes for them to enjoy these products. However, it is considered this is a small disbenefit for the individual, weighed against a greater benefit for neighbours, pets, farm stock and the wider community. This may cause a “black market” in fireworks made unavailable to consumers by means of re-categorisation. This will cause additional enforcement burdens on regulators such as Trading Standards. Border controls will require to be increased to prevent incursion of old stock, and consumer awareness will have to be managed if there is a sell-through (and therefore use) period of old stock. Page 353 of 366
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PUBLIC Section 3 – Lead-in periods Q9: How much lead in time would businesses need to prepare for the changes proposed in this consultation and why? Lead in time must be balanced between the practicalities for industry, the burden on regulators and consumer concerns. We would recommend a minimal lead-in period of 12 months due to the seasonal nature of the fireworks market, with a 12 month implementation period to follow, to allow existing stock to be sold through. Q10: What other things should we consider when setting a lead in time? Other key considerations will include: • existing global manufacturing schedule for these products (and how any changes will fit in), • training and guidance for the retail sector e.g. guidance documents, posters, • training for enforcement agencies, • consumer messaging which must be clear during this time, as it means in real terms they will not see a reduction in noise for at least 3 years due to selling periods. Page 354 of 366
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OFFICIAL ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18th August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Community Funding Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 A report is submitted to the Communities and Housing Policy Board each cycle which sets out officer recommendations in relation to a number of specific community funding mechanisms including the Sustainable Communities Fund and the Villages Investment Fund. An officer panel meets on a monthly basis to assess applications received in advance of this report being submitted. 1.2 As Elected Members will be aware, the guidance for both the Sustainable Communities Fund and Villages Investment Fund was updated in Winter 2024/25, and formally approved by the Leadership Board on 19 February 2025. Applications for both funds are considered in line with the refreshed guidance and processes. 1.3 Recommendations relating to these applications are set out in sections 4 and 5 for Elected Member consideration and summarised within Appendix 1 of this report. 1.4 Regular reports in relation to community funding applications will continue to be developed and submitted to the board for consideration. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Board: Item 17 Page 355 of 366
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OFFICIAL • Approve the recommendations detailed in Section 4 & 5 and summarised in Appendix 1 of this report, in relation to applications received to the Sustainable Communities Fund and Villages Investment Fund. 3. Background 3.1 To strengthen oversight of funding recommendations made in relation to a number of specific Council funding streams, the Policy and Partnerships service now submits a community funding paper to each cycle of the Communities and Housing Board. This includes recommendations from officers in relation to funding awards through the Greenspaces Fund, Villages Investment Fund and the Sustainable Communities Fund. This has been supported by the establishment and development of a cross-service officer panel which provides corporate oversight of grant applications in advance of making recommendations for elected members to consider. 4 Sustainable Communities Fund – Recommendations 4.1 The aim of the Sustainable Communities Fund is to support infrastructure and place-based projects across all areas of Renfrewshire which improve the lives of local people and build resilient communities. 4.2 In line with the revised guidance approved by the Leadership Board in February 2025, the Sustainable Communities Fund uses a tiered funding model to reflect different-sized community projects as well as the varying levels of support required at different stages of development as follows: Level of funding Overview Applications up to £9,999 Applications for both capital and revenue funding aimed at enabling small community projects to be undertaken, for example, the purchase of small pieces of equipment, community engagement initiatives, volunteer development programmes. Applications between £10,000 and £24,999 Applications for both capital and revenue funding focused primarily on costs to enhance community infrastructure, for example, feasibility studies, business/project plans for community asset transfer, and project management costs. Applications above £25,000 up to a max of £100,000 applications invited for capital costs only aimed at supporting communities that aspire to take ownership or redevelop land or buildings in their local communities. 4.3 A cross service officer panel met in June and July 2026 to assess applications against the refreshed guidance. Page 356 of 366
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OFFICIAL 4.4 One application is recommended for approval from this round of the Sustainable Communities Fund: Houston and Killellan Men’s Shed (£10,000) • This project aims to create a safe, warm and fully accessible purpose-built workshop and meeting space as the main hub of the Men’s Shed. Funding will allow for a feasibility study to be undertaken to identify the best options available to benefit the Shed and community. The space will be available year-round for members and other organisations to meet in a secure, welcoming environment. 4.5 Three applications have been recommended to be deferred to allow for further clarification and work to be carried out by officers. Further information on these applications is detailed in Appendix 1. • Erskine Arts - Inclusive Cultural Destination - Equipment and Stage Modernisation • Your Community, Your Space - Building Improvements – Electrical Works. • RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health) - Building Acquisition – Roofing and Fabric Surveys. 4.6 It is further recommended that one application is not awarded for KLAS Care CIC, and further information is detailed in Appendix 1. 4.7 The Sustainable Communities Fund currently has £234,806 of funding available for future allocation (£103,384 capital and £131,422 revenue). This does not include the recommendations within this report. 5. Villages Investment Fund 5.1 The Villages Investment Fund supports investment in infrastructure and place-based projects supporting and strengthening the identity, heritage, uniqueness and integrity of villages across Renfrewshire. Supported projects are required to demonstrate tangible outcomes for our communities. 5.2 In line with the guidance, projects should have a core focus on: • Making physical and environmental improvements to villages across Renfrewshire • Promoting sustainable community use of spaces across villages • Increasing levels of external funding being attracted into Renfrewshire to develop spaces and infrastructure across villages • Encouraging the development of new partnerships across villages Page 357 of 366
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OFFICIAL 5.3 One application is recommended for approval from this round of the Villages Investment Fund: Bridge of Weir Community Council (Partial award - £2,000) • Bridge of Weir Community Council is seeking support to improve physical signage in the village to raise awareness of the Community Council and increase opportunities for residents to engage in local decision-making. This includes replacement and clean-up of physical signage in several areas, as well as mobile signage such as pop banners for events. They are also seeking to establish a physical suggestion box system. • Funding was also sought for room hire costs to support community engagement events and the development of resident-led sub-groups to progress priorities identified within the Community Place Plan, helping to strengthen community participation and local leadership. This element was not considered to have met the criteria for the fund and as such a partial award has been recommended by the panel. 5.4 One application from Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust has been recommended to be deferred to allow for further clarification and work to be carried out by officers. It is further recommended that one application is not awarded for Houston Old School Trust. Further information on these applications is detailed in Appendix 2. 5.5 During this period, one application has been considered and awarded under Delegated Authority. This is an award of £800 to Lochwinnoch Sustainable Garden for the purchase of plants, soil and associated materials to support seasonal floral displays throughout the village. 5.6 The current balance of the Villages Investment Fund is £151,269, excluding the recommendations detailed within this report. Should the recommendations be approved, the available balance will reduce accordingly. The remaining budget is broadly split 60% capital funding and 40% revenue funding. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – The paper recommends that £2000 of funding is allocated from the Villages Investment Fund and £10,000 is allocated from the Sustainable Communities Fund. The paper notes £800 of funding from the Villages Investment Fund was allocated under delegated authority since the last update to board. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none. 3. Community/Council Planning – community funding supports engagement and collaboration with local communities on a range of activities which align with the new Council Plan 2022-2027; Our Renfrewshire Community Plan and/or Renfrewshire’s Plan for Net Zero. Page 358 of 366
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OFFICIAL 4. Legal - none. 5. Property/Assets – there are a number of applicants to this fund seeking to pursue community asset transfers, and where there are relevant property or asset issues these are covered as part of discussions at the officer panel. 6. Information Technology – none. 7. Equality and Human Rights – the Recommendations included within this report are considered to have a positive impact on equality and human rights. The fund continues to attract applicants seeking to make community assets more accessible for communities. 8. Health and Safety – none. 9. Procurement – none. 10. Risk – none. 11. Privacy Impact – none. 12. Climate Risk – the Sustainable Communities Fund aligns with the themes within Renfrewshire’s Plan for Net Zero and the delivery of relevant projects will assist the local response to the climate emergency. 13. Childrens Rights – while there are no specific children’s rights implications associated with the recommendations, there are applications in the pipeline which seek to widen opportunities for children and young people to actively participate within their communities. 15. COSLA Policy Position – none. Appendix 1: Summary of applications with Officers recommendations ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers: Sustainable Communities Fund Guidance Author: Laura McIntyre, Head of Policy and Partnerships Page 359 of 366
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OFFICIAL Appendix 1– Sustainable Communities Fund RECOMMENDATIONS TO APPROVE APPLICATIONS Organisation Purpose Tier Application Amount Recommendation Comments Houston & Killellan Men’s Shed This project aims to create a safe, warm and fully accessible purpose-built workshop and meeting space as the main hub of Shed and community organisations/activities. Funding will allow for a feasibility study to be undertaken to identify the best options available to benefit the Shed and community. The space will be available year-round for members and other organisations to meet in a secure, welcoming environment. This funding will pay for a structured feasibility study that gathers robust evidence, stakeholder insight and practical analysis to inform future development for not only the Men's Shed as well as the wider community. Key activities will include research, consultation with relevant partners and community groups, and assessment of potential delivery models, costs and benefits. Small £10,000 Approve Application was previously deferred to allow for further work with the organisation regarding ownership and lease arrangements for the proposed piece of land, which has now been satisfactorily concluded. RECOMMENDATIONS TO DEFER APPLICATIONS Organisation Purpose Tier Application Amount Recommendation Comments Page 360 of 366
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OFFICIAL Erskine Arts Inclusive Cultural Destination - Equipment and Stage Modernisation Modernising the PA system: sound equipment, monitors, AV, front-of-house system and mixing desk- and enlarging the stage. Erskine Arts aim to transform the Erskine Sports Centre venue into a key cultural destination by aligning with industry standards to ensure that audiences who face socioeconomic, geographic and support barriers to culture, can access the same high quality, life-enhancing experiences as their peers in other locales. Erskine Arts plan to use the upgraded venue to provide local young people with industry-facing volunteering, training and job opportunities through their new lottery-funded ‘Employment Pathways and Futures’ programme. Medium £35,820 Defer It is recommended that this application is deferred to allow officers to gather further information in relation to the project and the venue being developed. Your Community, Your Space Building Improvements – Electrical Works The project will make Beechwood Community Centre safe, compliant and fully operational. Phase 1 (SCF-funded) would deliver a full rewire, new switchgear and distribution boards, emergency lighting and fire-alarm compliance, and full testing. Phase 2 (externally funded) will install LED lighting and heating controls to reduce energy costs. YCYS will procure contractors competitively, manage works in phases to minimise disruption, and ensure all Large £86,975 Defer It is recommended this application is deferred to gather further information, including in relation to potential alternative funding streams. Page 361 of 366
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OFFICIAL installations meet BS 7671 standards. The result is a safe, modern and sustainable community facility. RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health) Building Acquisition – Roofing and Fabric Surveys RAMH currently occupies and delivers a range of community-based mental health services from 41 Blackstoun Road, Paisley. The current lease arrangement is due to expire in 2029. RAMH wishes to explore acquisition of the property from the Diocese of Paisley to secure the long-term future of mental health services from this location. The Diocese have requested that RAMH makes them a formal offer on the purchase. Recent building condition surveys have identified significant repair liabilities, particularly relating to the roof and external fabric. Before entering into acquisition negotiations, RAMH requires a comprehensive package of professional surveys to establish the building’s condition, future liabilities, market value and investment requirements including a Rot Infestation Survey, CCTV Drain Survey, Structural Survey and Structural Report. Medium £5,000 Defer It is recommended that this application is deferred to allow officers to gather further information in relation to the project RECOMMENDATIONS NOT TO AWARD APPLICATIONS Organisation Purpose Tier Application Amount Recommendation Comments KLAS Care CIC Feasibility Study - KLAS Care Neurodivergent Centre of Excellence (Johnstone) Small £5,500 Not to award It is recommended this application is not awarded Page 362 of 366
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OFFICIAL KLAS want to offer a safe community space for ASN children, to facilitate social inclusion and community cohesion, and to combat anti- social behaviour. The feasibility study will assess the viability, demand, sustainability and strategic positioning of the proposed service. The overall project will bring a centre of excellence that will provide a safe environment for stay and play, respite, family support programmes and parent workshops. Alongside this the centre will provide a welcoming space for the community to meet and organically grow this space in line with the community need. as it does not fit with the fund criteria, being largely focused on developing the feasibility of a service. The Panel recognise both the need and merits of this proposal and as such this application was previously deferred to allow for work on alternative funding sources. Planned follow up is now in place with social enterprise funding streams. Appendix 2: Villages Investment Fund RECOMMENDATIONS TO APPROVE APPLICATIONS Organisation Purpose Tier Application Amount Recommendation Comments Bridge of Weir Community Council Bridge of Weir Community Council is seeking support to improve physical signage in the village to raise awareness of the Community Council and increase opportunities for residents to engage in local decision-making. This includes replacement and clean-up of physical signage in several areas, as well as mobile signage such as pop banners for events. £3,800 £2,000 It is recommended this application is partially awarded for the work on signage locally. The amount awarded has been adjusted to remove the costs associated with room hire to support further Place Plan Page 363 of 366
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OFFICIAL They are also seeking to establish a physical suggestion box system. The funding will also support community engagement events and the development of resident-led sub-groups to progress priorities identified within the Community Place Plan, helping to strengthen community participation and local leadership. development, as this is not in line with the criteria of this fund. RECOMMENDATIONS TO DEFER APPLICATIONS Organisation Purpose Tier Application Amount Recommendation Comments Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust The Trust is seeking funding to purchase materials for the construction of new community planters within Lochwinnoch. The planters will be built by volunteers from Lochwinnoch Men's Shed and installed at key locations throughout the village. The project will enhance the appearance of public spaces, encourage community participation and strengthen collaborative working between local community organisations. £4,220 Defer application It is recommended this application is deferred to allow further exploration of potential alternative funding streams. RECOMMENDATIONS NOT TO AWARD APPLICATIONS Organisation Purpose Tier Application Amount Recommendation Comments Page 364 of 366
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OFFICIAL Houston Old School Trust (t/a Carrick Centre) In August 2025, the Trust secured a Villages Investment Fund award of £25,000 to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of the Carrick Centre. The funding enabled the installation of secondary glazing to the ground floor, replacement window frames and roof insulation. These improvements have enhanced the comfort of the building for users, reduced heat loss and increased the appeal of the Centre as a community venue. The facility supports a wide range of community activity, including exercise classes, childcare provision, community meetings and local events. The Trust is now seeking support to complete the next phase of the improvement programme through the installation of secondary glazing to the upper-floor windows, additional radiators and a thermostat-controlled heating system. The proposed works will further improve energy efficiency, enhance user comfort and support the long-term sustainability of this important community asset. £17,948 Recommended not to award It is recommended this application is not awarded, as funding criteria requires additional sources of funding. It was further noted that the group have already had a significant award from the Villages Investment Fund to support improvements to the building. It is noted that while the group have been successful in gaining some small additional sources of funding and using their own resources, this may be further limited by the group’s current governance arrangements. Page 365 of 366
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OFFICIAL Page 366 of 366