Agenda Document Pack - Housing and Technical Resources Committee - 02/09/2026
South Lanarkshire Council · 2 September 2026
Back to Housing and Technical Resources Committee — 2 September 2026 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 25 August 2026 Dear Councillor Housing and Technical Resources Committee The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the above Committee to be held as follows:- Date: Wednesday, 02 September 2026 Time: 10:00 Venue: Hybrid - Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton, ML3 0AA The business to be considered at the meeting is listed overleaf. Yours sincerely Paul Manning Chief Executive Members Davie McLachlan (Chair), Margaret Cowie (Depute Chair), Maureen Devlin (ex officio), Walter Brogan, Archie Buchanan, Mathew Buchanan, Janine Calikes, Gerry Convery, Andrea Cowan, Colin Dewar, Allan Falconer, Grant Ferguson, Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Alistair Fulton, Ross Gowland, Geri Gray, Susan Kerr, Richard Lockhart, Julia Marrs, Kenny McCreary, Fiona McDermott, Norman Rae, Kirsten Robb, David Shearer, Kirsty Williams Substitutes Robert Brown, Mary Donnelly, Monique Equi, Elise Frame, Martin Hose, Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Gavin Keatt, Eileen Logan, Richard Nelson, Helen Toner, Margaret B Walker 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee held on 3 June 2026 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 5 - 12 Monitoring Item(s) 3 Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) Joint report dated 5 August 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 13 - 18 4 Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Joint report dated 5 August 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 19 - 22 5 Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) Joint report dated 5 August 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 23 - 28 6 Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Joint report dated 5 August 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 29 - 32 7 Housing and Technical Resources - Capital Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) Joint report dated 3 August 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 33 - 38 8 Housing and Technical Resources – Capital Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Joint report dated 16 July 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 39 - 42 9 Housing and Technical Resources - Capital Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) Joint report dated 2 August 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 43 - 46 2
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10 Housing and Technical Resources – Capital Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Joint report dated 16 July 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 47 - 50 11 Housing and Technical Resources – Workforce Monitoring – 1 April to 30 June 2026 Joint report dated 28 July 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 51 - 58 Item(s) for Decision 12 South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy Report dated 17 July 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 59 - 96 13 Review of South Lanarkshire Council Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites Report dated 6 July 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 97 - 110 14 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement 2025/2026 Report dated 12 August 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 111 - 118 15 Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy Report dated 12 August 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 119 - 138 Item(s) for Noting 16 Update on Housing Investment Programme Report dated 7 August 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 139 - 146 17 Response to Council Motion – Investing in Housing and Investigating Rent Controls Report dated 7 August 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 147 - 152 18 Annual Review of the Housing Services Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 Report dated 25 June 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 153 - 158 19 Notification of Contracts Awarded - 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026 Report dated 1 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 159 - 168 3
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Urgent Business 20 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Laura Cunningham Clerk Telephone: 07385 370044 Clerk Email: laura.cunningham2@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 4
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HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 3 June 2026 Chair: Councillor Davie McLachlan Councillors Present: Councillor Walter Brogan, Councillor Archie Buchanan, Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Janine Calikes, Councillor Andrea Cowan, Councillor Margaret Cowie (Depute), Councillor Maureen Devlin (ex officio), Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Allan Falconer, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Councillor Elise Frame (substitute for Councillor David Shearer), Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Julia Marrs, Councillor Norman Rae, Councillor Kirsten Robb, Councillor Helen Toner (substitute for Councillor Alistair Fulton), Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Margaret Cooper, Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Geri Gray, Councillor Martin Lennon, Councillor Kenny McCreary, Councillor David Shearer Attending: Finance and Corporate Resources L Cunningham, Administration Officer; J Davitt, Communications Adviser; E McPake, Human Resources Business Manager; L Wyllie, Administration Assistant Housing and Technical Resources S Gibson, Executive Director; D Edgar, Area Housing Manager; S Egan, Head of Housing Services; G McParland, Property Manager (Assets and Estates); J Read, Strategy and Support Manager Chair’s Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed J Read, the new Strategy and Support Manager and D Edgar, Area Housing Manager to the Committee. 1 Declaration of Interests The following interest was declared:- Councillor(s) Item(s) Nature of Interest(s) Robb Greenhills Hall and Library – Community Asset Transfer to Loaves and Fishes Partner volunteer for Loaves and Fishes 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee held on 18 March 2026 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 2 5
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3 Housing and Technical Resources – Workforce Monitoring – 1 January to 31 March 2026 A joint report dated 28 April 2026 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on the following employee information for Housing and Technical Resources for 1 January to 31 March 2026:- attendance statistics occupational health statistics accident/incident statistics disciplinary hearings, grievances and Dignity at Work cases analysis of leavers and exit interviews Staffing Watch as at 14 March 2026 The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 March 2026 (Paragraph 8)] Councillor Lockhart joined the meeting during this item of business 4 Housing and Technical Resource Plan: Quarter 4 Progress Report 2025/2026 A report dated 8 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on the Housing and Technical Resource Plan Quarter 2 Progress Report for 2025/2026 for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. The Resource Plan measures were rated using a traffic light system of red, amber, or green as well as blue (BRAG) which indicated that an action had been completed. Details were provided on: - progress made in implementing the priority projects identified in the Resource Plan 2025/2026, as detailed in paragraph 5.2 and attached as Appendix 2 to the report key achievements made by the Resource to date, as detailed in paragraph 5.3 of the report additional scrutiny of changes in BRAG status between Quarter 2 and Quarter 4, as summarised in paragraph 5.5 and detailed at Appendix 3 to the report No measures had been classified as red. The Head of Housing Services responded to a member’s questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the Housing and Technical Resource Plan Quarter 4 Progress Report 2025/2026, as summarised in paragraph 5.2 and attached as Appendix 2 of the report, be noted; (2) that the key achievements made by the Resource to date, as detailed in paragraph 5.3 of the report, be noted; and (3) that the additional scrutiny of changes in measure status between Quarter 2 and Quarter 4, as summarised at paragraph 5.5 and detailed at Appendix 3 of the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 17 December 2025 (Paragraph 8)] 6
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5 Housing and Technical Resource Plan 2026/2027 A report dated 8 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on the Housing and Technical Resource Plan 2026/2027. Details were provided on the Resource Plan for 2026/2027, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, which outlined the:- key areas of focus for the year ahead Resource outcomes measures and actions resourcing of the Plan Following approval at individual Resource Committees, the Resource Plans for 2026/2027 would be submitted as a pack to a future meeting of the Executive Committee for noting. The Resource had established a number of outcomes to support the delivery of the Council Plan, Connect, in 2026/2027. To support those outcomes, the Resource had developed performance measures in an action plan, detailed in section 4 of the Resource Plan. Key or strategic measures would be included in the Council Plan progress reports 2026/2027, with the remaining measures being monitored and reported at Resource level. In line with the Council’s performance management arrangements, a mid-year progress report on measures identified in the 2026/2027 Housing and Technical Resource Plan and an end of year report respectively would be submitted to future meetings of the Committee. The Strategy and Support Manager responded to a member’s questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the Resource Plan 2026/2027, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, be approved; (2) that the Resource Plan 2026/2027 be uploaded onto the Council’s website following approval by the Committee; (3) that it be noted that, following Committee approval, all Resource Plans would be submitted to a future meeting of the Executive Committee for noting; and (4) that it be noted that progress reports on the Resource Plan 2026/2027 be provided at Quarter 2 and Quarter 4 to future meetings of the Committee. [Reference: Minutes of 14 May 2025 (Paragraph 9)] 6 Disposal of Council Housing at 13 Morven Way, Bothwell A report dated 21 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted seeking approval to dispose of a domestic Council property at 13 Morven Way, Bothwell on the open market. 13 Morven Way was a 1-bedroom single storey end terrace property located within the village of Bothwell which was constructed in 1960. Morven Way consisted of 2 terraced blocks of dwelling houses with each block containing 4 houses. The properties were orientated in a ‘V’ arrangement, and a copy of the plan was attached at Appendix 1. The Council owned 5 of the properties at Morven Way, with the additional 3 properties being owner occupied. 7
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Concerns had been raised by the former tenant at 13 Morven Way about structural issues and cracking within the property. Upon initial inspection, it was identified that there was evidence of large cracks throughout the property and the entrance porch was separated from the front elevation wall. Earlier repair works had been carried out within the property, but those had not fully addressed the structural problems. As a result of this, the tenant had been permanently relocated to another Council property and the property had remained vacant pending further investigation. A structural Conditions Report had been carried out. This showed no damage to the properties at 1 to 7 Morven Way. There were no significant issues detected at 9 and 11 Morven Way, however, 15 Morven Way showed evidence of historical structural repair works which seemed to have stabilised movement with no significant re-opening of cracks observed. The most serious problems had been detected at 13 Morven Way, with the estimated cost of reinstatement being £162,687, which was more than double the market value of similar type properties. Despite consideration being given to the current housing emergency, and Bothwell being a pressurised area for housing, the cost for reinstatement of the property was considered unreasonable for a 1-bedroom property, with no certainty that this would fully address the structural issues. It was, therefore, proposed that the property at 13 Morven Way be disposed of. The Estates team would actively monitor the market in an attempt to buy back other ex-Council properties within the local area to replace this property. The Area Housing Manager responded to members’ questions on aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) be authorised to progress disposal of the property at 13 Morven Way, Bothwell from the Housing Revenue Account via a sale on the open market; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of any subsequent disposal and enter into the necessary legal agreements in terms which were in the best interests of the Council. 7 Greenhills Hall and Library – Community Asset Transfer to Loaves and Fishes A report dated 21 April 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted advising of the request for the lease of Greenhills Hall and Library to Loaves and Fishes under Community Asset Transfer (CAT) and seeking approval for the principal terms and conditions, as detailed in Section 5 of the report. Greenhills Hall and Library had been managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC). Following a review of services, a decision was taken that the SLLC Board could not sustain service delivery from the facility and it was returned to the Council. Loaves and Fishes Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) subsequently submitted a CAT application for the lease of the property, which was received and validated on 18 September 2024. The premises were let to Loaves and Fishes on a concessionary lease on 30 April 2025. The request was placed before the CAT Panel on 20 April 2026, and a community benefit assessment was undertaken by the CAT Working Group on 10 April 2026. The proposal received a score of 100%. 8
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Information was provided on:- the extent of the property, as shown on the plan attached as an appendix to the report the purpose of Loaves and Fishes SCIO the proposed use of the site the assessment of the application and proposed terms and conditions of the lease The Property Manager (Assets and Estates) responded to a member’s question and, where information was not readily available, undertook to provide this to the relevant member. The Committee decided: (1) that the subjects at Greenhills Hall and Library be leased to Loaves and Fishes, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Section 5 of the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of the lease and enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which were in the best interests of the Council. Councillor Robb, having declared an interest in the above item of business, withdrew from the meeting during its consideration 8 Homelessness Strategic Action Plan A report dated 13 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted:- providing an update on progress against the Homelessness Strategic Action Plan for 2025/2026 seeking approval for the proposed Homelessness Strategic Action Plan for 2026/2027 Regular updates had been provided to the Committee since the Council declared a housing emergency on 12 June 2024, outlining the severe pressure placed on homelessness services due to high levels of demand. The most recent update to Committee was in March 2026 which provided an in-year position on homelessness pressures and noted that a further update would be brought forward after year end to reflect full-year progress against the 2025/2026 plan and to present the proposed annual plan for 2026/2027. Information was provided on:- progress against the 2025/2026 Homelessness Strategic Action Plan, as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report highlights, which included:- a stabilising trend in presentation a reduction in the number of children affected by homelessness a slight reduction in caseload an increase in homeless prevention activity the delivery of additional affordable housing continued high levels of social lets to homeless households preparatory work progressed to increase temporary accommodation capacity the proposed Strategic Action Plan for 2026/2027, attached as Appendix 2 to the report 9
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the next steps, which would include:- ongoing monitoring and updates to Committee continuing to work with the Scottish Government and engage with national groups focused on addressing the housing emergency The Committee decided: (1) that the progress against the 2025/2026 Homelessness Strategic Action Plan, be noted; and (2) that the proposed Homelessness Strategic Action Plan for 2026/2027 be approved. [Reference: Minutes of 18 March 2026 (Paragraph 16)] and Minutes of South Lanarkshire Council of 12 June 2024 (Paragraph 6)] 9 Proposed Allocation of Estate Improvement Budget 2026/2027 A report dated 8 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an overview of the proposed allocation of the enhanced Estate Improvement Budget for 2026/2027. The Council’s Budget setting process for 2026/2027 concluded on 25 February 2026. Within the Council’s budget, a one-off investment of £0.500 million had been allocated to enhance the Estate Improvement Budget with the purpose of further improving areas surrounding the Council’s housing estate. The Estate Improvement Budget, as part of the wider Housing Investment Programme, was allocated evenly across each of the 4 housing divisions and spent on prioritising projects identified in conjunction with the tenants. Information was provided on:- the proposed allocation to each of the 4 housing divisions of Cambuslang and Rutherglen, Clydesdale, East Kilbride and Hamilton, as outlined in section 4.2 of the report the monitoring and reporting arrangements in place the next steps, including consultation with the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group The Head of Housing Services responded to a member’s question and, where information was not readily available, undertook to provide this to the relevant member. The Committee decided: (1) that the proposed allocation of the Enhanced Estate Improvement Budget for 2026/2027 be approved; and (2) that the monitoring and reporting arrangements for those one-off investments, as outlined in paragraph 5.1, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 March 2026 (Paragraph 15) and Minutes of South Lanarkshire Council of 25 February 2026 (Paragraph 4)] In terms of Standing Order No 14, the Chair adjourned the meeting after this item of business at 11.00am. The meeting reconvened at 11.10am 10
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10 Update on the Implementation of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 A report dated 21 May 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted:- outlining the key aspects of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 advising on the actions underway to prepare for implementation The Scottish Government announced its intention to introduce new legislation for the housing sector in 2023, with the introduction of the Housing (Scotland) Bill in March 2024. The Bill aimed to legislate for, and build on, the policy position shared as part of the ‘Housing to 2040’ publication and ‘A New Deal for Tenants’ rented sector strategy. The Bill became an Act on 6 November 2025, however, many of the more complex aspects of the Act still required further development and secondary legislation to be fully implemented. A summary of the ongoing actions from the Resource on the following key aspects was provided in section 4 of the report:- rent controls damp and mould homelessness prevention domestic abuse council tax The Resource would continue to:- consider new or updated requirements arising from the Act engage with COSLA, the Association of Local Authority Chief Housing officers and the Scottish Government on the implementation of the Act Officers responded to a member’s questions in relation to various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the key aspects of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 be noted; and (2) that the ongoing activity in response to key aspects of the legislation be noted. 11 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 12 Exclusion of Press and Public The Committee decided: that, in terms of Section 50A(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the following item(s) of business on the grounds that it is likely that there will be disclosure of exempt information in terms of Paragraphs 2 and 9 of Part I of Schedule 7A of the Act. 11
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13 East Kilbride Showpark A report dated 21 April 2026 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on the Council’s lease of East Kilbride Showpark. The Council had a lease of the Showpark, which had been granted by the East Kilbride Open Cattle Show Society (the Society) to the Provost, Magistrates and Councillors of the Burgh of East Kilbride in 1966. Information was provided on a dispute between the Society and the Council in relation to nearby construction work being undertaken, and a proposed course of action. The Property Manager (Assets and Estates) responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that discussions be entered into with the landlords, East Kilbride Cattle Show Society, with a view to resolving the dispute, as detailed in the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters and enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which were in the best interests of the Council. 12
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 for Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) [1pur 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the breakeven position as at 31 March 2026, after approved transfers to reserves, as detailed in Appendix B of the report, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. This is the final revenue budget monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2025/2026. 3.2. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources (excluding HRA). Appendix A provides the service analysis statement, outlining key highlights by Service for the Resource and appendices B to D provide the detailed financial position with variance explanations by budget category. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. As at 31 March 2026, the Resource’s year-end outturn position after Transfers to Reserves is breakeven. This is outlined in Appendix B. 5.2. This position includes Transfers to Reserves of £0.123 million approved at the Executive Committee on 12 February 2026. This is outlined in appendices C to E. 5.3. The year-end position includes a £0.373 million underspend in relation to an element of the Resource budget delegated to the Integration Joint Board (IJB) for the Centralised Adaptations Service, which is based on Social Work assessments. The Executive Committee (24 June 2026) approved that this non-recurring underspend of £0.373 million be retained by the IJB within their reserves earmarked for future costs. 3 13
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5.4. Virements are proposed to realign budgets. These movements have been detailed in the appendices to this report, as appropriate. 6. 2025/2026 Investments 6.1. Local Action Fund revenue funding of £0.006 million was spent by Housing and Technical Resources on 3 Sheltered Housing Complexes to enhance recreational activities, garden spaces and leisure opportunities. 7 Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 8. Risk and Other Implications 8.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Revenue Budget is that there is an overspend. The risk is managed through 4 weekly Budget Monitoring Meetings at which any variance is analysed. In addition, the new forecasting within FUSION and work with the Resource and finance teams, ensures early warning for corrective action to be taken where appropriate. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 9.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 5 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References Executive Committee, 12 February 2026 Executive Committee, 24 June 2026 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 18 March 2026 List of Background Papers Financial ledger and budget monitoring results to 31 March 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager Ext: 2680 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail : kathleen.gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 14
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Appendix A Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period 14 Ended 31 March 2026 (No.14) Revenue Budget Monitoring Report – Service Analysis Service Analysis Revised Annual Budget (£000) Year End Actual (£000) Variance (£000) % Housing Services 9,519 9,658 (139) -1.46% Property Services 11,864 11,602 262 2.21% Net Controllable Exp. 21,383 21,260 123 0.58% Approved Transfer to Reserves - 123 (123) Position after Transfer to Reserves 21,383 21,383 0 Service Heading Explanation for significant projected outturn variances Housing Services The year end outturn is an overspend of £0.139 million, before Transfers to Reserves. There are overspends due to reduced rental income than forecast within Homelessness and increased utility costs. Transfer to reserves of £0.123 million have been approved by Executive Committee (4 February 2026). Property Services The year end outturn is and underspend, mainly in relation to Building Services reflecting demand. This is offset in part by overspends in Office Accommodation and Property Maintenance. 15
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Appendix B SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 31 March 2026 (No.14) Housing and Technical Resources Summary (excl HRA) Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) YTD Actual (£000 YTD Variance (£000 Over / Under % Employee Costs 48,050 46,492 1,558 46,282 1,768 Under 3.68% Property Costs 25,215 26,407 (1,192) 26,853 (1,638) Over (6.50%) Supplies & Services 12,237 12,253 (16) 12,866 (629) Over (5.14%) Transport & Plant 4,594 4,993 (399) 5,247 (653) Over (14.21%) Administration Costs 4,143 4,179 (36) 4,279 (136) Over (3.28%) Payments to Other Bodies 9,098 9,169 (71) 9,240 (142) Over (1.56%) Payments to Contractors 17,867 20,290 (2,423) 19,799 (1,932) Over (10.81%) Transfer Payments 0 0 0 0 0 - 0.00% Financing Charges 156 157 (1) 230 (74) Over (47.44%) Total Controllable Exp. 121,360 123,944 (2,584) 124,796 (3.436) Over (2.83%) Total Controllable Inc. (99,977) (102,684) 2,707 (103,536) 3,559 Over recovered (3.56%) Net Controllable Exp. 21,383 21,260 123 21,260 123 under 0.58% Transfer to Reserves 0 123 (123) 123 (123) Position after Transfer to Reserves 21,383 21,383 0 21,383 0 0.00% Variance Explanations Variances are shown in Appendices C and D as appropriate. Budget Virements Virements are shown in Appendices C and D as appropriate. 16
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Appendix C SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 31 March 2026 (No.14) Housing Services Revised Annual Budget (£000) Forecast for Year (£000) Forecast Variance (£000) YTD Actual (£000) YTD Variance (£000) Over/ under % Notes Employee Costs 3,592 3,595 (3) 3,612 (20) Over (0.56%) Property Costs 8,1 8,730 (578) 8,877 (725) Over (8.89%) 1 Supplies & Services 111 108 3 152 (41) Over (36.9%) Transport & Plant 116 90 26 94 22 Under 18.97% Administration Costs 156 184 (28) 186 (30) Over (19.2%) Payments to Other Bodies 5,258 5,174 84 5,329 (71) Over (1.35%) a,b,c Payments to Contractors 3,926 3,661 265 3,538 388 Under 9.88% 2 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 0 0 - 0.00% Financing Charges 12 13 (1) 23 (11) Over (91.7%) Total Controllable Exp. 21,323 21,555 (232) 21,811 (488) Over (2.29%) Total Controllable Inc. (11,804) (12,219) 415 (12,153) 349 Over Recover ed (2.96%) 3,a,b Net Controllable Exp. 9,519 9,336 183 9,658 (139) over (1.46%) Transfer to Reserves 0 123 (123) 123 (123) i. Position after Transfer to Reserves 9,519 9,459 60 9,781 (262) over (2.75%) Variance Explanations 1. The overspend mainly relates to additional costs within the Homelessness Service, including temporary accommodation and bed & breakfast provision, higher than budgeted debt write off and expenditure on fixtures and fillings which varies in line with service demands. This is partially offset by an over recovery of income (see 3. below). 2. This underspend relates to commissioned services within the Homelessness budget, where expenditure varies according to service requirements. 3. The over recovery of income is mainly due to the increased demand for the use of bed & breakfast accommodation within the Homelessness Service and offsets in part the additional property costs (see 1 above). Budget Virements a. Transfer from reserves for Homelessness projects £1.218m. Payments to Contractors £1.105m, Income £0113m. b. Realignment of VPRS budget. Net effect £0m. Payment to other Bodies £0.2m, Income (£0.2m) c. Transfer from reserves for Grant to Homeowners £0.303m. Payment to other Bodies £0.303m. Approved Transfers to Reserves (£0.123m) Included in the Probable Outturn (£0.123m) i. Transfer to reserves of £0.123 million for the First Stop Accommodation. 17
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Appendix D SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 31 March 2026 (No.14) Property Services Revised Annual Budget (£000) Forecast for Year (£000) Forecast Variance (£000) YTD Actual (£000) YTD Variance (£000) Over/ under % Notes Employee Costs 44,458 42,897 1,561 42,670 1,788 Under 4.02% 1 Property Costs 17,063 17,677 (614) 17,976 (913) Over (5.35%) 2 Supplies & Services 12,126 12,145 (19) 12,714 (588) Over (4.85%) 3,a Transport & Plant 4,478 4,903 (425) 5,153 (675) Over (15.1%) 4 Administration Costs 3,987 3,995 (8) 4,093 (106) Over (2.66%) Payments to Other Bodies 3,840 3,995 (155) 3,911 (71) Over (1.85%) a Payments to Contractors 13,941 16,629 (2,688) 16,261 (2,320) Over (16.6%) 5 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 0 0 - 0.00% Financing Charges 144 144 0 207 (63) Over (43.8%) Total Controllable Exp. 100,037 102,389 (2,352) 102,985 (2,948) Over (2.95%) Total Controllable Inc. (88,173) (90,465) 2,292 (91,383) 3,210 Over recovered (3.64%) 6 Net Controllable Exp. 11,864 11,924 (60) 11,602 262 Under 2.21% Transfer to Reserves 0 0 0 0 0 Position after Transfer to Reserves 11,864 11,924 (60) 11,602 262 Under 2.21% Variance Explanations 1. The underspend relates to turnover and vacancies mainly in Building Services and Estates services which are being actively recruited in line with Service requirements. 2. The overspend relates to greater than budgeted expenditure for Service Changes within Estates Services, Planned Maintenance activity, and maintenance, fixtures and fittings within Building Services. 3. The year end position reflected the level of level expenditure on materials within Building Services which fluctuated during the year according to workload demands and timing of both capital and revenue funded works undertaken. 4. The overspend in transport costs is due to increased maintenance requirements for the existing fleet and the need for hired vehicles to maintain service delivery. 5. The overspend on Payment to Contractors reflects design work undertaken relating to the capital programme and is offset by an over recovery in fee income generated. 6. The over recovery of income is mainly due to the recharge of the net additional expenditure incurred by Building Services, reflecting the volume and nature of revenue and capital works undertaken during the financial year. This is partially offset by lower than anticipated rental income within the Estates and Office Accommodation services. Budget Virements a Realignment of Building Services based on service delivery. Net effect £0. Supplies & Services £1m, Payment to Contractors (£1m). 18
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the breakeven position as at 31 March 2026, after approved transfers to reserves, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. 3. Background 3.1. This is the final revenue budget monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2025/2026. 3.2. This report reflects the actual spend to 31 March 2026 within the Resource budget. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. As at 31 March 2026, there is a breakeven position against the budget. This is outlined in Appendix A. 5.2. This breakeven position is after a transfer from the HRA Reserve of £3.988 million. This Transfer from Reserves is £0.375 million less than the Probable Outturn Transfer from Reserves of £4.363 million. The main reasons for this reduction are increased income from house rents, less than anticipated void rent loss and the less than anticipated Loan Charges reflecting the level of deposit interest received in year being greater than anticipated, as well as the benefit of interest on Revenue Balances. 4 19
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5.3. These are partially offset by the planned drawdown from reserves for the implementation costs associated with the new Housing Management system which went live in early 2026, One Housing. As a result of the underspends mentioned above, this spend can now be accommodated within the overall outturn, without increasing the use of reserves. 5.4. Accounting Entries: There were a number of entries required to manage the Scottish Government funding of the 2025/2026 Pay Award. These included the use of additional General Capital Grant of £9.641 million, which had to be transferred to the Council’s Revenue Account to pay for the increased costs experienced in year. The General Capital Grant has been routed through the Housing Account and transferred to the Council’s Revenue Account as cash balances. This approach follows the guidance in the Conditions of the General Capital Grant letter for 2025/2026, which allows us to use the General Capital Grant for Revenue spend. This has no impact on the bottom-line position for the HRA and reflects the accounting entries required to manage the use of Capital funding for Revenue spend. 5.5. Further details on the variances for the HRA are detailed in Appendix A. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 7. Risk and Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Revenue Budget is that there is an overspend. There are inflationary and budget pressures including utilities costs and general inflation pressures which increase the risk of overspend, however these have mitigated through the HRA Business Plan. 7.2. The risk is managed through 4 weekly Budget Monitoring Meetings at which any variance is analysed. In addition, the forecasting within FUSION and work within the Resource and finance teams, ensures early warning for corrective action to be taken where appropriate. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 5 August 2026 20
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Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References Housing and Technical Committee – 18 March 2026 List of Background Papers Financial ledger and budget monitoring results to 31 March 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager Ext: 2680 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail : Kathleen.Gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 21
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Appendix A SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 31 March 2026 (No.14) Housing Revenue Account Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) YTD Actual (£000) YTD Variance (£000) Over / Under % Notes Employee Costs 15,360 15,295 65 15,267 93 under 0.61% 1 Property Costs 62,592 62,420 172 62,115 477 under 0.76% 2 Supplies & Services 405 477 (72) 427 (22) over (5.43%) Transport & Plant 195 213 (18) 193 2 over (1.03%) Administration Costs 5,604 5,537 67 5,577 27 under 0.48% Payments to Other Bodies 12,590 12,981 (391) 14,098 (1,508) over (11.98%) 3,a Payments to Contractors 422 422 0 484 (62) over (14.69%) Transfer Payments 0 0 0 0 0 - 0.00% Financing Charges 26,133 26,164 (31) 25,985 148 under 0.57% a Total Controllable Exp. 123,301 123,509 (208) 124,146 845 over (0.69%) Total Controllable Inc. (133,819) (133,740) (79) (134,150) 2,347 over recovered 0.25% 4,a Transfer to/(from) Balance Sheet (4,076) (4,363) 287 (3,988) (1,122) under (2.16%) 5 Net Controllable Exp. (14,594) (14,594) 0 (13,992) 1,740 under (4.12%) Loan Charges 14,594 14,594 0 13,992 (1,740) over 4.12% 6 Net Controllable Exp. / (Inc.) 0 0 0 0 0 - 0.00% Variance Explanations 1. The underspend in employee costs is due to vacancies within the service that continue to be actively recruited. 2. The forecast underspend is due to the net effect of underspends in void rent loss, utility costs and ground maintenance charges partially offset by greater than budgeted expenditure on fixture and fittings and contract cleaning costs. 3. Spend reflects work on a number of areas including the implementation of the new One Housing system. This was originally to be funded by the use of Reserves, but due to underspends elsewhere, can be accommodated in the overall outturn position. 4. Income is over recovered mainly due to greater than anticipated house rents as a result of the number of buy backs in year. 5. The transfer to reserves is lower than budgeted reflecting the net effect of the variances noted. 6. The underspend is due to the level of deposit interest received in year being greater than anticipated, as well as the benefit of interest on Revenue Balances. Budget Virements a. Increase in spend/income budget to reflect additional capital grant routed through the HRA for Pay Award. Net effect £0.000m. Payment to Other Bodies £9.641m, Financing Charges (£9.641m). 22
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April 2026 to 10 July 2026 for Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) provide a forecast for the year to 31 March 2027 [1pur 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the forecast to 31 March 2027 of a breakeven position, as detailed in Appendix A of the report, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. This is the first revenue budget monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2026/2027. 3.2. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources (excluding HRA). Appendix A provides the service analysis statement, outlining key highlights by Service for the Resource and appendices B to D provide the detailed financial position with variance explanations by budget category. 3.3. This report reflects the actual spend to 10 July 2026 within the Resource budget and reflects the expected outturn forecast on expenditure and income at this date. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. As at 10 July 2026, the Resource’s projected outturn position for 2026/2027 is a breakeven position. This is outlined in Appendix A. 5.2. Virements are proposed to realign budgets. These movements have been detailed in the appendices to this report, as appropriate. 5 23
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6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 7. Risk and Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Revenue Budget is that there is an overspend. The risk is managed through 4 weekly Budget Monitoring Meetings at which any variance is analysed. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 5 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References None List of Background Papers Financial ledger and budget monitoring results to 10 July 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager Ext: 2680 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail : kathleen.gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 24
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Appendix A Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period 4 Ended 10 July 2026 (No.4) Revenue Budget Monitoring Report – Service Analysis Service Analysis Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) % YTD Actual (£000) Housing Services 8,954 8,936 18 0.20% 1,200 Property Services 10,051 10,069 (18) -0.18% 3,785 Net Controllable Exp. 19,005 19,005 0 0.02% 4,985 Service Heading Explanation for significant projected outturn variances Housing Services There are no significant variances to report. Property Services There are underspends in employee costs due to staff turnover and vacancies, offset an under recovery in income within Consultancy Services and Estates Services reflecting anticipated nature of works to be recharges. 25
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Appendix B SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 10 July 2026 (No.4) Housing and Technical Resources Summary (excl HRA) Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 55,685 54,346 1,339 under 2.40% 13,776 Property Costs 24,148 24,320 (172) over (0.71%) 5,564 Supplies & Services 11,971 12,037 (66) over (0.55%) 1,677 Transport & Plant 4,614 4,612 2 under 0.04% 2,199 Administration Costs 4,165 4,165 0 - 0.00% 203 Payments to Other Bodies 6,509 6,511 (2) over (0.03%) 1,763 Payments to Contractors 12,408 12,359 49 under 0.39% 3,748 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 160 162 (2) over (1.25%) 3 Total Controllable Exp. 119,660 118,512 1,148 under 0.96% 28,933 Total Controllable Inc. (100,655) (99,507) (1,148) under recovered (1.14%) (23,948) Net Controllable Exp. 19,005 19,005 0 - 0.00% 4,985 Variance Explanations Variances are shown in Appendices C and D. Budget Virements Budget Virements are shown in Appendices C and D 26
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Appendix C SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 10 July 2026 (No.4) Housing Services Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 4,358 4,268 90 under 2.07% 1,154 1, a Property Costs 7,368 7,416 (48) over (0.65%) 844 a,c,d,e Supplies & Services 140 159 (19) over (13.57%) 30 a Transport & Plant 159 159 0 - 0.00% 50 a Administration Costs 141 145 (4) over (2.84%) 26 a,e Payments to Other Bodies 3,551 3,551 0 - 0.00% 1,208 a,e Payments to Contractors 3,264 3,264 0 - 0.00% 234 b Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 12 13 (1) over (8.33%) 0 e Total Controllable Exp. 18,993 18,975 18 under 0.09% 3,546 Total Controllable Inc. (10,039) (10,039) 0 - 0.00% (2,346) a,c,e Net Controllable Exp. 8,954 8,936 18 under 0.20% 1,200 Variance Explanations 1. The forecast underspend relates to turnover and vacancies which are actively being recruited as required Budget Virements a. Establishment of the Ukraine refugee budget for 2026/2027. Net Effect £0m: Employee Costs £1.035m, Property Costs £0.217m, Supplies & Services £0.078m, Transport & Plant £0.063m, Administration Costs £0.004m, Payments to Other Bodies £0.507m and Income (£1.904m). b. Transfer of Living Wage funding from Social Work Resources. Net Effect £0.163m: Payments to Contractors £0.163m. c. Establishment of Harriet Garden Budget. Net Effect £0. Property Costs £0.126m., Income (£0.126m) d. Redetermination of General Revenue Grant in respect of Ukraine Resettlement Funding. Net Effect £0.122m: Property Costs £0.122m. e. Realignment of Factoring Service budget. Net Impact £0. Property Costs £0.176m, Administration £0.454m, Payment to Other Bodies £0.301m, Finance Charges £0.005m, Income (£0.937m). 27
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Appendix D SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 10 July 2026 (No.4) Property Services Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 51,327 50,078 1,249 under 2.43% 12,622 1 Property Costs 16,780 16,904 (124) over (0.74%) 4,720 2,a,c Supplies & Services 11,831 11,878 (47) over (0.40%) 1,647 Transport & Plant 4,455 4,453 2 under 0.04% 2,149 Administration Costs 4,024 4,020 4 under 0.10% 177 Payments to Other Bodies 2,958 2,960 (2) over (0.07%) 555 b Payments to Contractors 9,144 9,095 49 under 0.54% 3,514 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 148 149 (1) over (0.68%) 3 Total Controllable Exp. 100,667 99,537 1,130 under 1.12% 25,387 Total Controllable Inc. (90,616) (89,468) (1,148) under recovered (1.27%) (21,602) 3,c Net Controllable Exp. 10,051 10,069 (18) over (0.18%) 3,785 Variance Explanations 1. The forecast underspend relates to turnover and vacancies in Consultancy Services and Estates which are being recruited in line with Service requirements. The underspend in Consultancy Services is offset by an under recovery in income. 2. The forecast overspend relates mainly to greater expenditure on CCTV security costs than is currently budgeted, due to CCTV infrastructure project upgrade. Other overspends are minor and relate to running costs of operational buildings. 3. The forecast under recovery of income reflects the lower than anticipated rental income in estates and lower than expected capital recharges reflecting the timing and nature of projects undertaken. These are offset by underspends in employee costs (refer 1). Budget Virements a. Incorporation of Planned Maintenance budget from Capital. Net Effect £4.3m. Property Costs £4.3m. b. Transfer from CFCR in respect of Private Sector Housing Scheme of Assistance. Net Effect £1m. Payments to Other Bodies £1m. c. Realignment of Estates Budget to reflect accounting treatment of void rent loss. Net Impact £0. Property costs (£0.328m), Income £0.328m. 28
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources - Revenue Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April 2026 to 10 July 2026 for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) provide a forecast for the year to 31 March 2027 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the forecast breakeven position on Housing and Technical Resources’ (HRA) revenue budget, as detailed in Appendix A of the report, be noted (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. 3. Background 3.1. This is the first revenue budget monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2026/2027. 3.2. This report reflects the actual spend to 10 July 2026, and the expected outturn forecast at this date. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. As at 10 July 2026, there is a forecast breakeven position against the budget. This is outlined in Appendix A. 5.2. Appendix A also notes the actual position as at 10 July 2026, being a net income position of £13.246 million. This reflects the timing of income and expenditure at that point in the year. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 6 29
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7. Risk and Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Revenue Budget is that there is an overspend. The risk is managed through four weekly Budget Monitoring Meetings at which any variance is analysed. In addition, the move to routine forecasting and the work within the Resource and Finance teams, ensures early warning for corrective action to be taken where appropriate. 7.2. Inflationary and budget pressures increase the risk of overspend however these pressures are assessed and managed within the budget planning exercise for current and future years. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 5 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References None List of Background Papers Financial ledger and budget monitoring results to 10 July 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager Ext: 2680 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail : Kathleen.Gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 30
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Appendix A SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 10 July 2026 (No.4) Housing Revenue Account Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 17,393 17,377 16 under 0.09% 4,396 Property Costs 63,331 63,331 0 - 0.00% 17,368 a Supplies & Services 523 523 0 - 0.00% 38 Transport & Plant 195 195 0 - 0.00% 91 Administration Costs 5,604 5,620 (16) over (0.29%) 142 Payments to Other Bodies 2,682 2,682 0 - 0.00% 539 a Payments to Contractors 326 326 0 - 0.00% 238 a Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 33,918 33,918 0 - 0.00% 3495 Total Controllable Exp. 123,882 123,882 0 - (0.00%) 26.307 Total Controllable Inc. (141,769) (141,769) 0 - (0.00%) (39,553) a Transfer to/(from) Balance Sheet (3,498) (3,498) 0 - 0.00% 0 Net Controllable Exp. (21,385) (21,385) 0 - 0.00% (13,246) Loan Charges 21,385 21,385 0 - 0.00% 0 Net Controllable Exp. / (Inc.) 0 0 0 - 0.00% (13,246) Variance Explanations There are no significant variances to report. Virements a. Realignment of budget to reflect the accounting treatment of repairs activity and insurance cost/recoveries. Net effect £nil: Property Costs £0.295m, Payment to Contractors £0.135m, Income £0.597m, Payments to Other Bodies (£1.027m). 31
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources - Capital Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) capital programme of £6.564 million, and expenditure for the year of £5.550 million, be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. This is the final capital monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2025/2026. 3.2. As noted in the last report to this Committee (18 Mar 2026), the budget for Housing and Technical Resources for financial year 2025/2026 was £6.564 million. This was the final budget for the year 2025/2026. 3.3. The report details the year-end position for Housing and Technical Resources in Appendix A. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. 2025/2026 Capital Programme – Final Position 5.1. As detailed in Section 3.2, the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources for 2025/2026 was £6.564 million. Total expenditure to the 31 March 2026 was £5.550 million, a difference of £1.014 million in comparison to the programme of £6.564 million. 5.2. This year-end underspend position reflects the profile of spend across a number of projects including within the multi-project and multi-year programme Prioritised Urgent Investment Fund where spend will be incurred in the new financial year. 7 33
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5.3. The main projects responsible for the overall programme underspend are detailed in Appendix B. This appendix provides a list of the continuing projects into 2026/2027, along with their estimated completion dates. 5.4. Any underspend on these projects, along with the funding, has been carried forward into the new financial year as required. An update on the 2026/2027 programme is detailed in a separate report to this Committee. 5.5. Accounting Adjustments While sections 5.1 to 5.3 detail the position on the Capital Programme as set, Accounting Regulations mean that adjustments are required to report spend correctly as either Capital or Revenue for the purposes of publishing our Annual Accounts. This includes where spend is in relation to assets that are not owned by the Council and where the spend must be classed as Revenue. There is no operational impact for projects from this adjustment – it is an accounting entry only. 5.6. At the year-end 2025/2026, a minor spend of £0.003 million of Capital spend requires to be recorded in the Revenue programme. This transfer means that for the purpose of publishing our Annual Accounts only, there is Capital spend of £5.547 million. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. The financial implications are detailed in section 4 of this report. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 8. Risk and Other Implications 8.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Capital Programme is that there is an overspend. The risk has been assessed as low given the detailed project management plans prepared and monitored for each project. The risk of overspend is managed through four weekly Investment Management Meetings. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 9.2. There was also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 3 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent 34
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Previous References Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 18 March 2026 Executive Committee, 24 June 2026 List of Background Papers Financial ledger to 31 March 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Graham Booth, Finance Manager (Strategy) Ext: 2699 (Tel: 01698 452699) E-mail: graham.booth@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 35
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Appendix A South Lanarkshire Council Capital Expenditure 2025-2026 Housing and Technical Resources Programme (excl HRA) For Period 1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026 Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) Base Budget £000 Budget Adjustments £000 Slippage/ Acceleration £000 Total Budget £000 Forecast Spend £000 Forecast Variance £000 Actual Expenditure £000 Asset Management Programme 8,110 (4,258) - 3,852 3,852 - 3,069 Private Housing Scheme of Assistance 1,000 (1,000) - - - - - Other Housing 1,018 1,694 - 2,712 2,712 - 2.481 TOTAL 10,128 (3,564) - 6,564 6,564 - 5.550 Accounting Adjustments Less Transfers to Revenue (0.003) 2025/2026 Outturn Position (Accounting Basis Only) 5.547 36
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Appendix B Projects with Underspends in 2025/2026 which will Carry Forward into 2026/2027 Project Name Project Type Completion Date Housing and Technical Resources Prioritised Urgent Investment Refurbishment Throughout 2026/2027 Lifecycle Replacement Schools Refurbishment Throughout 2026/2027 Fire Alarm System Upgrade Refurbishment Throughout 2026/2027 37
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources – Capital Budget Monitoring 2025/2026 (Housing Revenue Account) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) capital programme of £87.740 million and expenditure of £85.782 million be noted. 3. Background 3.1. This is the fifth and final capital monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2025/2026. 3.2. The budget is based on the revised capital programme for the year, which was approved by the Executive Committee on 3 December 2025. 3.3. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) on Appendix A. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications contained within this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. 2025/2026 Budget: The total Housing Capital programme for the year is £87.740 million. 5.2. 2025/2026 Actual: The actual expenditure on the Housing Programme was £85.782 million, an underspend of £1.958 million. The actual spend is broadly in line with the outturn previously reported although the actual spend on the New Build programme was better than forecast, while the spend on Housing Investment Programme (HIP) was slightly less than expected due to an underspend on kitchens and heating projects partially offset by overspends in external fabrics, windows and doors and environmental works. The planned land settlement for the site on Almada Street (£0.720 million) could not be concluded by 31 March and settled in early April 2026 and as a result the expenditure has slipped into 2026/2027. Additional spend on other sites offset this planned spend. 8 39
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5.3. Carry Forward to 2026/2027: Taking into account the year end underspend would mean a carry forward of £1.958 million and will be included in the 2026/2027 Capital Programme. A breakdown of the carry forward is £0.852 million for New Build programme and £1.106 million for Housing Investment Programme. It is proposed that the full amount be included in the 2026/2027 Capital Programme. 5.4. Accounting Entries: Part of the Council’s Capital funding package for the year included £9.641 million which was allocated by the Scottish Government to fund the 2025/2026 Pay Award. In order to facilitate this, the General Capital Grant has been routed through the Housing Accounts with a subsequent transfer to the General Services Revenue Account. This is permitted in the Grant Conditions of the General Capital Grant letter for 2025/2025 which the Scottish Government have changed for this year only, and which allows councils to use the General Capital Grant for Revenue spend. 5.5. The figures presented in the Housing Capital Outturn in appendix A reflect the transfer of General Capital Grant and the reduced use of Capital Financed from Current Revenue (CFCR) to facilitate the funding ultimately being transferred to the General Services Revenue account to pay for the Pay Award. This has no impact bottom-line and is just the accounting arrangements required for routing the monies to the General Services Revenue account. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Risk and Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Capital Programme is an overspend. The risk has been assessed as low given the detailed project management plans prepared and monitored for each project. The risk of overspend is managed through four weekly Investment management meetings. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There was also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 16 July 2026 40
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Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References ♦ Executive Committee, 3 December 2025 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 18 March 2026 List of Background Papers ♦ Financial ledger to 31 March 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager (Resources) Ext: 2601 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail: Kathleen.Gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 41
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Capital Expenditure 2025/2026 Appendix A Housing Programme As at 31 March 2026 2025/26 Annual Budget 2025/26 Actual to 31/03/26 2025/26 Actual Variance £m £m £m Expenditure 2025/26 Budget 87.740 85.782 1.958 2025/26 Annual Budget 2025/26 Actual to 23/01/26 £m £m Income Capital Funded from Current Revenue 35.633 25.815 Prudential Borrowing 19.409 15.762 Scottish Government Specific Grant: - Capital Grant 1.652 11.312 - New Build 24.726 24.620 - Open Market Purchase Scheme 6.000 7.700 - Mortgage to Rent - Climate Emergency Fund 0.120 0.200 0.160 0.219 Other Income 0.000 0.194 87.740 85.782 42
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources - Capital Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (excl. HRA) for the period 1 April 2026 to 10 July 2026 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Housing and Technical Resources capital programme of £13.605 million, and forecast expenditure of £13.605 million, be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. This is the first capital monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2026/2027. Further reports will follow throughout the year. 3.2. The revised budget of £13.605 million for Housing and Technical Resources reflects the budget approved by the Executive Committee on 24 June 2026. Details are provided in Section 5. 3.3. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources in Appendix A. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. 2026/2027 Budget As detailed in Section 3.2, the revised capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources is £13.605 million. This budget is based on the overall Capital Programme for 2026/2027 approved by the Executive Committee on 25 February 2026 (£20.262 million), updated to include the budget carried forward from financial year 2025/2026, and adjustments to the programme approved at the Executive Committee on 24 June 2026. These adjustments total £4.782 million and are shown in Appendix A. 9 43
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5.2. The budget of £13.605 million is after planned transfers to the Revenue Budget for the Private Housing Scheme of Assistance project (£1.000 million) and Planned Maintenance Programme (£4.300 million). As reported to the Executive Committee on 24 June 2026, this is to reflect Accounting Regulations as this spend cannot be classed as Capital and therefore, a total of £5.300 million is transferred to the Revenue Budget along with the associated funding. The details of these amendments are also shown in Appendix A. 5.3. 2026/2027 Forecast Based on current information, the budget of £13.605 million also reflects the estimated level of spend which can be achieved in 2026/2027. Appendix A shows the forecast for the financial year, and for information, the actual expenditure of £0.493 million to 10 July 2026. 6. 2026/2027 Investments 6.1. Funding has been allocated to Housing and Technical Resources as part of the 2026/2027 Investment funding. The Housing and Technical budget for 2026/2027 includes £0.350 million for Investing in Energy Efficiency and £0.500 million for Multi Use Games Areas (Outdoor Investment) as part of the Investments. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 8. Risk and Other Implications 8.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Capital Programme is that there is an overspend. The risk has been assessed as low given the detailed project management plans prepared and monitored for each project. The risk of overspend is managed through four weekly Investment Management Meetings. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 9.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in the report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 2 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous References South Lanarkshire Council, 25 February 2026 Executive Committee, 24 June 2026 44
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List of Background Papers Financial ledger to 10 July 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: Graham Booth, Finance Manager (Strategy) Ext: 2699 (Tel: 01698 452699) E-mail: graham.booth@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 45
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Appendix A South Lanarkshire Council Capital Expenditure 2026-2027 Housing and Technical Resources Programme (Excl HRA) For Period 1 April 2026 – 10 July 2026 Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) Base Budget £000 Budget Adjustments £000 Slippage/ Acceleration £000 Total Budget £000 Forecast Spend £000 Forecast Variance £000 Actual Expenditure £000 Asset Management Programme 15,786 (4,300) - 11,486 11,486 - 276 Private Housing Scheme of Assistance 1,000 (1,000) - - - - - Other Housing 1,601 518 - 2,119 2,119 - 217 TOTAL 13,087 (4,782) - 13,605 13,605 - 493 For Information Only Budget Adjustments approved by Executive Committee, 24 June 2026: Budget Adjustments Planned Asset Management Programme Private Housing Scheme of Assistance (PHSA) Central Energy Efficiency Fund 2026/2027 (CEEF) Climate Emergency Fund (CEF) Total Budget Adjustments (£4.300 million) (£1.000 million) (£0.557 million (£0.039 million) (£4.782 million) 46
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources – Capital Budget Monitoring 2026/2027 (Housing Revenue Account) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) for the period 1 April 2026 to 10 July 2026 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) capital programme of £94.740 million and forecast expenditure of £94.740 million be noted. 3. Background 3.1. This is the first capital monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2026/2027. 3.2. A total Housing Capital Programme budget for 2026/2027 was approved by Council in February 2026 of £90.934 million. This budget is affected by a number of adjustments detailed below. 3.3. The Final Outturn report for financial year 2025/2026 noted a carry forward of £1.958 million and this is added to the approved budget for the year. 3.4. The Scottish Government revised the Council’s Affordable Housing grant allocation for 2026/2027. This has been increased by £2.310 million and will increase the number of Open Market Purchases made in 2026/2027. 3.5. The budget is also increased by a transfer of funds from the General Fund’s Climate Emergency Fund (£0.038 million) for projects that will be managed as part of the Housing Programme. 3.6. As a result of these additions to the programme, a revised programme for 2026/2027 of £94.740 million was approved by the Executive Committee on 24 June 2026. 3.7. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) on Appendix A. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications contained within this report. 10 47
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5. Financial Implications 5.1. 2026/2027 Budget: The revised Housing Capital Programme for 2026/2027 is £94.740 million. The total budget along with the funding sources is detailed at Appendix A to this report. 5.2. 2026/2027 Forecast: Current estimates have identified an outturn of £94.740 million for the year. For information, actual expenditure to 10 July 2026 is £12.603 million. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Risk and Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Capital Programme is an overspend. The risk is mitigated through the detailed project management plans prepared and monitored for each project. The risk of overspend is managed through 4 weekly Investment management meetings. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There was also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 16 July 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References ♦ South Lanarkshire Council, 25 February 2026 Executive Committee, 24 June 2026 List of Background Papers ♦ Financial ledger to 10 July 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager (Resources) Ext: 2601 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail: Kathleen.Gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 48
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South Lanarkshire Council Appendix A Housing Capital Programme 2026/2027 As at 10 July 2026 2026/2027 Annual Budget 2026/2027 Forecast Spend 2026/2027 Forecast Variance 2026/2027 Actual to 10/07/26 £ million £ million £ million £ million Expenditure 2026/2027 Budget 94.740 94.740 - 12.603 2026/2027 Annual Budget 2026/2027 Actual to 10/07/26 £ million £ million Income Capital Receipts – Land Sales - 0.093 Capital Funded from Current Revenue 33.851 3.493 Prudential Borrowing 33.385 5.962 Scottish Government Specific Grant: - New Build 18.474 2.919 - Open Market Purchase Scheme 8.910 0.000 - Mortgage to Rent 0.120 0.081 Other Income - 0.055 94.740 12.603 49
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources – Workforce Monitoring – 1 April to 30 June 2026 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide employment information for 1 April to 30 June 2026 relating to Housing and Technical Resources [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the following employment information for 1 April to 30 June 2026 relating to Housing and Technical Resources be noted:- attendance statistics occupational health accident/incident statistics discipline, grievance and Dignity at Work cases analysis of leavers and exit interviews Staffing Watch as at 13 June 2026 [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. As part of the Council’s performance management arrangements, regular workforce monitoring reports are submitted to Committee. This report for Housing and Technical Resources provides information on the position for 1 April to 30 June 2026. 4. Monitoring Statistics 4.1. Attendance Statistics (Appendix 1) Information on absence statistics is analysed for the month of June 2026 for Housing and Technical Resources. The Resource absence figure for June was 5.5%, this figure has increased by 0.2% when compared to the previous month and is 0.1% higher than the Council-wide figure. When compared to June 2025, the Resource absence figure has remained the same. Based on the absence figure at June 2026 and annual trends, the projected annual average absence for the Resource for 2026/2027 is 6.0% which is 0.1% lower than the Council-wide annual average figure. 11 51
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Managers follow the procedures outlined in the Maximising Attendance Policy to support employees to remain at work, or to return to work after a sickness absence. There are comprehensive employee supports in place and additionally, Personnel Services work in close partnership with line managers and Resource Management Teams on a case management basis to ensure that appropriate actions are taken. 4.2. Occupational Health (Appendix 2) In terms of referrals to occupational health, 171 referrals were made this period. This represents a decrease of 13 when compared with the same period last year. 4.3. Accident/Incident Statistics (Appendix 2) There were 15 accidents/incidents recorded within the Resource this period. 4.4. Discipline, Grievance and Dignity at Work (Appendix 2) During the period, 11 disciplinary hearings were held within the Resource, this figure has increased by 1 when compared to the same period last year. No appeals were heard by the Resource, which remains unchanged when compared to the same period last year. 4 grievances were raised within the Resource, this figure has decreased by 1 when compared to the same period last year. 2 Dignity at Work complaints were raised, this figure has increased by 2 when compared to the same period last year. 4.5. Analysis of Leavers (Appendix 2a) There were 14 leavers in the Resource this period eligible to complete an exit questionnaire. The number of leavers has increased by 4 when compared to the same period last year. During the period 5 exit interviews were completed, this figure has increased by 3 when compared to the same period last year. 5. Staffing Watch (Appendix 3) 5.1. There has been an increase of 16 employee in post from 14 March to 13 June 2026. 6. Employee Implications 6.1. There are no implications for employees arising from the information presented in this report. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. All financial implications are accommodated within existing budgets. 8. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 9. Risk and Other Implications 9.1. There are no implications for sustainability or risk in terms of the information contained within this report. 10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 10.2. There was no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. 52
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Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 28 July 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Fair, open and sustainable Ambitious, self-aware and improving. Excellent employer Focused on people and their needs. Working with and respecting others. Previous References Housing and Technical Resources – 3 June 2026 List of Background Papers Monitoring information provided by Finance and Corporate Resources Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Eileen McPake, HR Business Manager Ext: (Tel: 01698 454668) E-mail: eileen.mcpake@southlanrkshire.gov.uk 53
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2024 / 2025 2025 / 2026 2026 / 2027 2024 / 2025 2025 / 2026 2026 / 2027 2024 / 2025 2025 / 2026 2026 / 2027 2024 / 2025 2025 / 2026 2026 / 2027 % % % % % % % % % % % % April 5.3 5.6 5.7 April 7.2 4.8 5.5 April 6.1 5.3 5.7 April 5.2 5.7 5.6 May 5.2 4.5 5.3 May 8.1 5.7 5.2 May 6.4 5.0 5.3 May 5.3 5.6 5.9 June 5.7 5.1 5.5 June 8.4 6.0 5.6 June 6.8 5.5 5.5 June 5.2 5.4 5.4 July 5.3 5.2 July 8.6 6.4 July 6.7 5.7 July 4.1 4.3 August 5.5 5.4 August 8.8 6.0 August 6.9 5.7 August 4.7 4.7 September 7.5 5.9 September 7.4 6.7 September 7.5 6.2 September 6.1 6.1 October 7.3 5.7 October 6.0 7.1 October 6.8 6.3 October 6.0 6.2 November 6.8 6.9 November 6.2 7.8 November 6.5 7.2 November 6.9 7.0 December 6.4 6.6 December 5.8 8.9 December 6.2 7.5 December 7.0 7.5 January 7.0 5.2 January 6.2 5.9 January 6.7 5.5 January 6.7 6.5 February 7.0 6.1 February 7.1 5.8 February 7.0 6.0 February 7.0 6.8 March 6.8 5.6 March 5.9 5.5 March 6.4 5.6 March 6.8 6.7 Annual Average 6.3 5.7 5.8 Annual Average 7.1 6.4 6.4 Annual Average 6.7 6.0 6.0 Annual Average 5.9 6.0 6.1 Average Apr - Jun 6.3 5.7 5.5 Average Apr - Jun 7.1 6.4 5.4 Average Apr - Jun 6.7 6.0 5.5 Average Apr - Jun 5.9 6.0 5.6 882 578 1460 15974 Manual Workers Council Wide No of Employees at 30 June 2026No of Employees at 30 June 2026 No of Employees at 30 June 2026 No of Employees at 30 June 2026 Appendix 1 Housing & Technical Resources Resource Total Absence Trends - 2024/2025, 2025/2026 & 2026/ 2027 APT&C 54
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April to June April to June 2025 2026 MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS Number of Employees Attending EMPLOYEE COUNSELLING SERVICE Total Number of Referrals PHYSIOTHERAPY SERVICE Total Number of Referrals REFERRALS TO EMPLOYEE SUPPORT OFFICER 46 44 REFERRALS TO COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY 3 0 TOTAL 184 171 April to June April to June 2025 2026 Specified Injuries* 0 0 Over 7 day absences 1 0 Over 3 day absences** 0 0 Minor 3 5 Near Miss *** 1 3 Violent Incident: Physical**** 0 1 Violent Incident: Verbal***** 6 6 Total Accidents/Incidents 11 15 April to June April to June 2025 2026 Total Number of Hearings 10 11 Total Number of Appeals 0 0 Time Taken to Convene Hearing - 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026 0-3 Weeks 4-6 Weeks Over 6 Weeks 5 4 2 April to June April to June 2025 2026 Number of Grievances 5 4 Number Resolved at Stage 2 4 0 Number Resolved at Stage 3 1 0 Still in Progress 0 4 April to June April to June 2025 2026 Number of Incidents 0 2 Still in Process 0 2 ***Near Miss - Any unexpected, unplanned occurrence (except Dangerous Occurrences) that does not lead to injury of persons, damage to property, plant or equipment but may have done so in different Appendix 2 HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES 81 61 3 5 51 61 CAUSE OF ACCIDENTS/INCIDENTS *A Specified Injury is any fracture (other than to the fingers, thumbs or toes), amputation, loss of sight, serious burns, crushing injury, scalping, loss of consciousness caused by asphyxiation/ head injury, a chemical or hot metal burn to the eye or penetrating injury as defined by the HSE. **Over 3 day / over 7day absence is an injury sustained outwith specified injury category that results in a period of absence of absence as defined by the HSE. RECORD OF DIGNITY AT WORK ****Physical violent incidents are included in the "Specified" figures, where applicable, to provide the ****Physical violent incidents and ***** Verbal Violent Incidents are included in the "Over 3-day or Over 7- day" figures, where applicable, to provide the "Total Over 3-day or Over 7-day" figures. ****Physical Violent Incidents and ***** Verbal Violent Incidents are included in the "Minor" figures, where applicable, to provide the "Total Minor" figures. RECORD OF DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS RECORD OF GRIEVANCE HEARINGS 55
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April to June April to June 2025 2026 Career Advancement 4 6 Disatisfaction with terms and conditions 1 0 Personal Reasons 5 3 Travelling difficulties 0 1 Other 0 4 Total Number of Leavers Eligible for Exit Interview 10 14 Number of Exit Interviews conducted 2 5 Percentage of interviews conducted 20% 36% ANALYSIS OF REASONS FOR LEAVING Appendix 2a HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES 56
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As at 13 June 2026 Total Number of Employees F/T P/T F/T P/T 805 112 361 152 Chief Officer Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Fixed SCP Teacher TOTAL 3.00 203.36 713.35 364.04 32.09 9.00 0.00 1.69 0.00 1326.53 As at 14 March 2026 Total Number of Employees F/T P/T F/T P/T 791 111 361 151 Chief Officer Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Fixed SCP Teacher TOTAL 3.00 204.17 698.81 363.72 30.49 10.00 0.00 1.69 0.00 1311.88 MALE FEMALE TOTAL TOTAL *Full - Time Equivalent No of Employees Salary Bands Salary Bands Appendix 3 JOINT STAFFING WATCH RETURN HOUSING & TECHNICAL RESOURCES 1430 1414 *Full - Time Equivalent No of Employees MALE FEMALE 57
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] seek endorsement from Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the introduction of the revised South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy, with effect from 5 April 2027 ?1ur [1purpos 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the revised South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, be endorsed; (2) that the revised Policy be submitted to the Executive Committee on 16 September 2026 for approval; and (3) that the revised Policy, if approved by Executive Committee on 16 September 2026, will be implemented with effect from 5 April 2027. [[1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The Housing (Scotland) Act 1987, as amended, sets out the legal framework for the allocation of social housing in Scotland and is supported by statutory guidance. Out with legislative requirements, social landlords have discretion to develop housing allocation policies in accordance with local needs and circumstances. 3.2. The Scottish Housing Regulator monitors, assesses and reports on how landlords are performing against the standards and outcomes detailed within the Scottish Social Housing Charter. The housing allocation policy has a direct impact on the ‘Access to social housing’ outcome and performance in relation to this is reported within the Council’s annual return on the Charter. 3.3. The current South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy was endorsed by Housing and Technical Resources Committee in May 2019 and sets out the approach taken to prioritising housing applications and allocating vacant Council properties. 3.4. In accordance with the Policy and Strategy Review Schedule, approved by this Committee on 27 November 2024, the housing allocation policy was subject to review during 2025/2026. 12 59
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4. Policy review process 4.1. To inform the development of the consultative draft Housing Allocation Policy, engagement took place with key stakeholders to discuss and obtain views on key aspects of the policy, including:- ♦ tenant representatives from the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group, who formed a subgroup which met regularly with Council officers over a six-month period, to consider aspects of the Policy in detail ♦ a session for elected members, held in October 2025, which provided the opportunity from members to provide comments/views on the current Policy ♦ employees of Housing Services and other Council Resources ♦ Registered Social Landlord partners of HomeFinder, the South Lanarkshire Common Housing Register 4.2. In addition, an appraisal of other local authority housing allocation policies was undertaken to identify examples of best practise. Consideration was also given to legislative and regulatory requirements as well as local and national priorities, including; the prevention of homelessness and supporting vulnerable groups, such as veterans, care experienced young people and those experiencing domestic abuse. 4.3. This work informed the development of the consultative draft Housing Allocation Policy, which was issued for formal consultation on 14 April 2026. 5. Consultation process 5.1. Formal consultation on the draft Housing Allocation Policy took place between 14 April and 3 July 2026. The consultative draft Policy was published on the Council website, together with an online survey which was developed to guide responses in relation to key aspects of the Policy, including:- aims of the Policy structure of the Policy and applicant groups eligible to queue within each list points categories and associated criteria occupancy standard offers of housing management of applications local letting arrangements The survey also gave respondents the opportunity to provide additional comments in relation to the Policy. 5.2. Throughout the consultation, the Policy was routinely promoted through the Council’s social media channels. 5.3. A detailed consultation plan was implemented with a wide range of partners and key stakeholders invited to provide feedback and comment on the Policy, including: ♦ customer groups - Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group, tenants and resident associations, homelessness service users, sheltered housing tenants, housing register applicants, citizens panel, care experienced young people ♦ third sector organisations – Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire (VASLan), Shelter, The Salvation Army, Women’s Aid, Who Cares Scotland, Turning Point, veterans’ organisations, kinship care support organisations 60
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♦ equality groups – Positive Action in Housing, Disability Partnership Housing Subgroup, Lanarkshire Ethnic Minority Action Group, Promoting a more inclusive Society (PAMIS), Youth Council ♦ partner agencies - Registered Social Landlords, Community Planning Partners, Problem Solving Groups, Financial Inclusion Network, Autism Strategy Group ♦ internal stakeholders - Housing Services and other Resources staff members, Employee Network, elected members, Housing Services Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) and Parent JCC ♦ neighbouring local authorities 5.4. In addition, a number of meetings took place, providing the opportunity to discuss the Policy proposals in more detail, including:- ♦ East Kilbride Sheltered Housing Tenants Forum, held on 21 April 2026 ♦ Registered Social Landlord Forum, held on 29 April 2026 ♦ Housing Services staff members, through a Service Development Session followed by a group-based discussion session held on 3 June 2026 ♦ care experienced young people, who attended a focus group meeting on 9 June 2026 ♦ elected members, through a briefing session which took place on 10 June 2026 ♦ veteran representatives, who attended a focus group meeting on 17 June 2026 ♦ tenant and customer representatives, through the Tenant Participation Co- ordination Group and local area meetings which took place during May/June 2026 ♦ Homelessness Services users, through two focus group meetings which took place in June 2026 ♦ Housing Register applicants, through four focus group meeting which took place during early July 2026 5.5. In total, 383 individuals participated in the discussions that took place during the various meetings detailed above, providing comments and valuable feedback and on the Policy proposals. 6. Summary of Feedback Received 6.1. Over 250 responses were received through the online survey, with the following positive feedback received in relation to the survey questions:- ♦ over 60% of respondents agreed with the Policy aims, the structure of the Policy, applicant groups and their associated criteria ♦ 76% of respondents agreed with the proposal for different levels of insecurity, with 68% in agreement with the circumstances proposed ♦ 70% of respondents agreed with the proposals in relation to the occupancy standard ♦ 72% of respondents agreed with the proposals relating to setting letting targets and 76% supported local letting initiatives as a means for taking account of local circumstances ♦ 79% of respondents supported the approach set out within the Policy for the assessment of health needs ♦ over 80% of respondents agreed with the sheltered housing aspects of the Policy, including the aims, eligibility criteria and approach to assessment The views and comments received during the consultation were taken into account and informed the development of the revised Policy. 61
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7. Key Features of the Revised Policy 7.1. The aims of the revised Housing Allocation Policy remain broadly similar to the current Policy and are focused on being responsive to local needs and demands, ensuring best use of available housing stock and making sure that those assessed as being in most housing need are prioritised. 7.2. The Policy continues to be structured around four housing need lists, with applications for housing assessed according to the individual circumstances of the applicant. The table below summarises the circumstances of applicants eligible to queue within each list:- Housing list Circumstances of applicants Urgent Housing Need list Homeless applicants, those with an urgent health need, Armed Forces, young people leaving care Transfer list tenants of South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) and HomeFinder partners (including Gypsy/Traveller residents of SLC sites) Waiting list tenants of other councils/housing associations, applicants without security of tenancy, those living care of parents/friends/relatives, homeowners, those living in a caravan/mobile/park home as their main residence Other categories list applicants whose needs cannot be met through above lists, e.g. those with kinship care arrangements, those experiencing domestic abuse 7.3. The Policy continues to award points/priority to reflect various circumstances, to applicants queued within the Transfer and Waiting lists (applicants within the other lists are queued either based on list date or individual circumstances). 7.4. The requirement for a flexible and strategic approach to be taken to the allocation of housing is maintained within the Policy through local letting arrangements, which enable letting targets and initiatives to be set for each housing management area on an annual basis, taking into account supply, demand and local circumstances. 8. Summary of key changes from Existing Policy 8.1. A summary of the key changes proposed to the Policy is provided below:- ♦ young people leaving care are eligible to be queued within the Urgent Housing Need list, having their own priority group within this list (previously were queued within other categories list) ♦ Armed Forces criteria extended to include partners and the period within which an application can be made, has been extended from 6 to 12 months prior to and following discharge ♦ transfer tenants include residents of Gypsy/Traveller sites owned by South Lanarkshire Council ♦ applicants with kinship care arrangements and those affected by domestic abuse (with Pathway plan) are eligible to queued within other categories list ♦ introduction of 3 priority levels of insecurity of tenure to ensure those with most need or at risk of homelessness are prioritised (only 1 level of points available under current Policy) 62
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♦ applicants who are expected to lose their accommodation within a 2-month period and tied tenants ♦ applicants who are expected to lose their accommodation within 2 to 6 months and veterans of the Armed Forces whose circumstances are insecure and who do not meet the Armed Forces criteria under the Urgent Housing Need list ♦ all other applicants whose circumstances are insecure ♦ while the specific requirement to prepare Local Letting Plans has been removed, setting and publishing local letting targets and letting initiatives continue to form a key aspect of the Policy ♦ age qualifying criteria for sheltered housing has been amended from 66 years to ‘state retirement age’ 8.2. In addition, a number of minor amendments and updates have been made to the Policy to ensure it aligns with current practise and approach. 9. Next Steps 9.1. Subject to endorsement by Housing and Technical Resources Committee, the revised Housing Allocation Policy will be presented to Executive Committee for approval on 16 September 2026. 9.2. Subject to Executive Committee approval, the revised Policy will be implemented from 5 April 2027. 10. Employee Implications 10.1. There are no employee implications contained within this report. 11. Financial Implications 11.1. Any financial implications in the preparatory works ahead of implementation of the new Policy will be accommodated by the Housing Revenue Account. 12. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 12.1. This report does not introduce a new Policy, function or strategy which impacts on the natural environment, climate change or sustainability. 13. Risk and Other Implications 13.1. There are no additional risks associated with this report. 14. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 14.1. An integrated impact assessment has been carried out on the Housing Allocation Policy. The assessment identified that in general the Policy will have a positive or neutral impact on protected characteristics and socio-economic groups. The assessment also confirmed that the policy will contribute positively to the Armed Forces Community and to both Human and Children’s Rights through the effective prioritisation of those assessed as being in housing need. The integrated impact assessment is available on the Council website at South Lanarkshire Council Integrated Impact Assessments 14.2 As detailed in section 5, consultation on the Policy took place with a wide range of partners and stakeholders. The comments and feedback received during this process were considered and taken into account in the development of the finalised policy document. 63
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Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 17 July 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live We will work to put people first and reduce inequality Focused on people and their needs Caring, connected, sustainble communities Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous Reference Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 20 March 20219 Housing and Technical Resources Committee. 27 November 2024 Executive Committee, 16 May 2019 List of Background Papers Consultative draft South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy consultation report, August 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Sharon Egan, Head of Housing Services Ext: 4595 (Tel: 01698 454595) E-mail: sharon.egan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 64
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Housing and Technical Resources South Lanarkshire Council Housing Allocation Policy 12 65
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Contents Section 1 Introduction 1.1 Background 1.2 Aims of the policy 1.3 Consultation 1.4 Access to information 1.5 Ensuring equal opportunities and other relevant duties 1.6 Service standards Section 2 Applying for a house 2.1 HomeOptions 2.2 Who can apply for housing 2.3 How to apply for housing 2.4 Applying for sheltered housing 2.5 Applying for amenity or adapted housing 2.6 Applying for multi-storey housing 2.7 Areas of choice 2.8 Combining applications 2.9 Joint working arrangements Section 3 Housing lists and priorities 3.1 HomeFinder - the housing register 3.2 Urgent housing need 3.3 Transfer list 3.4 Waiting list 3.5 Other categories 3.6 Definition of points categories available to Transfer and Waiting list applicants 3.7 Summary of points categories Section 4 Occupancy standard 4.1 The standard 4.2 Size of property Section 5 Local letting arrangements 5.1 Letting targets 5.2 Local letting initiatives Section 6 Managing applications for housing 6.1 Offers of housing – Transfer and Waiting list 6.2 Offer of housing to priority applicants 6.3 Cancellation of housing applications 6.4 Suspension of housing applications 6.5 Information provided to suspended applicants 6.6 Deferment of housing applications 6.7 Review of housing applications 6.8 Change of applicant’s circumstances 6.9 Change of applicant’s preferences 66
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Section 7 Health assessment and priorities 7.1 Health assessment 7.2 Health priority Section 8 Sheltered housing – assessment and priorities 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Aims of the policy 8.3 HomeOptions 8.4 Who can apply 8.5 How to apply 8.6 Choice of sheltered development 8.7 The housing register 8.8 Assessing need for sheltered housing 8.9 Allocation process Section 9 Appeals and complaints 9.1 Allocation appeals 9.2 Homelessness appeals 9.3 Complaints 9.4 Arrangements for monitoring and reviewing the policy 9.5 The Scottish Housing Regulator Section 10 Miscellaneous provisions 10.1 Residence and contact with children 10.2 Expectant mothers 10.3 Fostering and adopting children 10.4 Part-time occupants 10.5 Joint tenancies 10.6 Mutual exchanges 67
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Section 1 - Introduction 1.1 Background This policy sets out how vacant council housing in South Lanarkshire will be allocated. Following consultation, the policy was endorsed by Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 2 September 2026 and is effective from 5 April 2027. The policy was developed in accordance with the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987, as amended. 1.2 Aims of the policy The policy aims to: • be responsive to local needs, demands and aspirations to ensure the best use of available housing stock • make sure that those assessed as being in most housing need are prioritised • contribute towards the achievement of balanced and sustainable communities • be fair, transparent and consistent in the allocation of all council housing • comply with all relevant legislation • be consistent with all equality and diversity requirements and other legal duties A monitoring framework has been developed to ensure that the policy aims are being met. On an annual basis the policy outcomes will be reported to a range of relevant audiences including Housing and Technical Resources Committee and customer representatives. 1.3 Consultation The Housing (Scotland) Act 2014 requires the council to prepare and publish a report on the consultation carried out during the development of the Housing Allocation Policy. The report from the consultation is published on the council website, www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 1.4 Access to information Any information that is held regarding an individual must be treated lawfully and correctly in line with the safeguards outlined in the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, which require data to be: • lawfully, fairly and transparently processed • processed for limited purposes • adequate, relevant, and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which it is processed • accurate and kept up to date • kept no longer than the period necessary and • kept securely against unauthorised or unlawful processing and protected against accidental loss, destruction, or damage. The processing shall be conducted in a way that ensures compliance with the rights of data subjects, including: • the right to be informed • the right of access 68
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• the right to rectification • the right to erasure (as far as applicable) • the right to restrict processing • the right to data portability (as far as applicable) • the right to object to processing (including profiling); and • the right not to be subject to fully automated decision-making including profiling. Further information is available by viewing the council's General Privacy Notice, Data Sharing Policy, Information Security Policy and Information Compliance Policy. Under the General Data Protection Regulation UK 2018, applicants are entitled to access any information the council holds in relation to their application. More information on this can be found on the council’s website www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 1.5 Ensuring equal opportunities and other relevant duties South Lanarkshire Council has an Equality and Diversity Policy which is committed to the principle that everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. In relation to the allocation of council housing, this policy is consistent with the requirements of the Equality and Diversity Policy and ensures that the council acts fairly and lawfully in all that it does. The council does not discriminate against applicants in any way on the grounds of age, disability, gender, gender identity (reassignment), marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief or sexual orientation. In addition, the council must ensure that it considers and takes account of the impact of any policy in relation to other relevant legal duties and requirements. To support these considerations, as part of the development of this policy, an Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) has been carried out to ensure that the policy is inclusive, does not unfairly disadvantage any particular group and is compliant with the council’s legal duties and requirements. Details of the IIA is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. If any applicant feels that they have been treated unfairly they have the right, through the appeals process, to have their case reviewed. Section 9 provides further details on the appeals process. If information in another language or format is required, please contact the council to discuss how these needs can best be met by e-mailing equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 1.6 Service standards The service standards relating to the allocation policy are detailed on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 69
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Section 2 - Applying for a house 2.1 HomeOptions It is important that applicants have the information that they need to make informed choices about their housing options. There is a range of HomeOptions information available on the council website for applicants to consider when applying for a house. In addition, the HomeOptions Service, based in local housing offices, also provide help and advice on the housing options available in South Lanarkshire. The information and advice provided is tailored to applicants’ individual needs and circumstances and aims to ensure that applicants make realistic choices about where they wish to live. HomeOptions information and contact details for the HomeOptions Service are available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 2.2 Who can apply for housing? In accordance with the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987, as amended by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, applicants aged 16 years or over can be included on the housing register provided that they are not prevented from doing so by immigration or any other relevant legislation. 2.3 How to apply for housing The council operates HomeFinder, a common housing register with a number of registered social landlords (RSLs) with properties in South Lanarkshire. HomeFinder makes it easier for applicants to apply for housing with the council and participating RSLs through a single housing application form. If, as a result of ill health or a disability, an applicant needs assistance in applying for a house, they can contact the council to discuss how best these needs can be met. If an applicant is • a South Lanarkshire Council employee; or • an elected member of South Lanarkshire Council; or • is related to or has a close personal relationship with an employee or elected member of South Lanarkshire Council this must be disclosed when applying for a house. Applications for housing from any of the above applicants will be managed fairly and appropriately, in accordance with this policy. A range of information on HomeFinder and applying for a house in South Lanarkshire is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 70
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2.4 Applying for sheltered housing The process detailed in 2.3 is the same process for applicants wishing to apply for sheltered housing, however there are additional requirements that applicants should be aware of. Section 8 provides further details on the qualifying criteria for sheltered housing, how applications are assessed and how sheltered properties are allocated in South Lanarkshire. 2.5 Applying for amenity or adapted housing A number of council properties have been purpose built or adapted to meet specific needs of different groups of applicants, for example, older people, people with a physical disability or with restricted mobility. Priority for this type of accommodation is given to those assessed as having appropriate needs. 2.6 Applying for multi-storey housing This property type is generally considered to be more suitable for households with no children under 16 years. Households who have part time access arrangements to children under 16 years may be considered for an offer of this property type. 2.7 Areas of choice The council’s housing stock is divided into management areas and within each area, the housing stock is further divided into a number of letting areas. Letting areas vary in size but in general reflect areas that are commonly recognised and requested by applicants. Applicants can apply for housing in any area of South Lanarkshire and can select as many letting areas as they wish. Further information is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 2.8 Combining applications There are situations where applicants may wish to submit a joint application for housing with someone else. Applicants who currently live separately Applicants who live separately will be assessed on the combined housing needs of the household. Where one or both applicants have previously made an application for housing, the joint application will be assessed based on the combined needs of the household. Points are awarded based on the applicant who has the highest level of assessed housing need points and the earliest date of application. 71
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Applicants who have moved in together Where two applicants have separate existing applications for housing and then subsequently move in together, their circumstances will be re-assessed on a joint basis according to their current housing circumstances and earliest date of application. In both circumstances, if applicants subsequently wish to be considered individually for housing, their application will be assessed from the original date of application and in accordance with their current housing circumstances. 2.9 Joint working arrangements The council has joint working arrangements with other RSLs that are not part of HomeFinder, the South Lanarkshire Common Housing Register, but have properties in South Lanarkshire. Referral of homeless applicants to RSLs In accordance with Section 5 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, and to assist with meeting the demand for housing from homeless applicants, the council can request RSLs with properties within South Lanarkshire to provide applicants with housing, if they have been assessed as homeless (this is known as a Section 5 referral). Before a Section 5 referral is made, the council will take account an applicant’s needs and preferences and the availability of suitable housing. The key aim of the Section 5 referral is to ensure that applicants are housed appropriately and as quickly as possible. Nominations agreements The council’s agreement with RSLs sets out how the nomination process works in practice and the systems in place for monitoring. When applying to the council for housing, individuals can select other RSLs who have housing in areas they have chosen. 72
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Section 3 – Housing list and priorities 3.1 HomeFinder - the housing register The housing register is made up of four separate lists. Applications will be assessed according to the individual circumstances of the applicant and placed on one of the following four lists: • Urgent housing need • Transfer list • Waiting list • Other categories Points 3.2 to 3.6 below, provide details of the qualifying criteria for each of the lists and the points categories. 3.2 Urgent housing need list This list contains the following four categories of applicant: Homeless applicants Homeless persons and persons threatened with homelessness, who have unmet housing needs and to whom the council has a legal duty to provide permanent accommodation under the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987, as amended. Applicants with an urgent health need Applicant (or member of the moving household) whose circumstances have been assessed, and it is found that: • they have a severe and enduring health condition; and • they are unable to occupy their present accommodation because it is wholly unsuitable in light of their health needs; and • their present property cannot be adapted, or equipment or health/care support services cannot be provided; and • urgent rehousing to suitable accommodation is required to improve their housing situation Section 7 provides further details on the health categories and assessment process. Young People Leaving Care Applicant has been looked after and accommodated by South Lanarkshire Council or referred by another local authority under the Management of Leaving Care Protocol, on or after their 16th birthday, up to the age of 26 years. Applicants within this category will be supported and in accordance with the Housing and Social Work Joint Protocol – Accommodation Options for Throughcare and Aftercare Young People, which aims to ensure that a planned and joined up approach is taken to meeting housing needs. 73
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Armed Forces Applicant is preparing for or has been discharged from the armed forces. Priority under this category will be awarded up to 12 months prior to and up to 12 months following the date of discharge from the service. Applicants will be required to provide confirmation of their date of discharge and details of their service either in the form of a letter from a senior officer or by providing a copy of their certificate of discharge. Priority under this category will also be awarded to a partner who is required to leave service accommodation because of a relationship breakdown or following the death of their armed forces partner. Further details on the Urgent housing need list Applicants placed on the Urgent housing need list are considered to have the highest priority for housing and will be placed solely according to the date of homeless application, application for urgent medical need, application for housing (young people leaving care), or date armed forces priority was awarded. If placed on the Urgent housing need list the council will aim to make an offer of housing which matches applicant’s preferences within a reasonable timescale. To assist in achieving this aim, applicants cannot be unreasonably restrictive in terms of their area or property choices, and these preferences will be regularly reviewed to make sure that they are reasonable. If an applicant’s preferences are considered too restrictive or limited, an offer of housing will be made which the council considers to be reasonable in light of assessed needs. Applicants will receive one offer of housing as an applicant with the highest priority. Where applicants unreasonably refuse this offer, their circumstances will be reassessed and they will be placed on one of the other housing lists, where they will be eligible to receive a further two offers of housing. Where an applicant assessed as having an urgent health need refuses the reasonable offer made, the application will be removed from the Urgent Housing Need list and serious health points awarded to reflect their continuing unmet health need. One reasonable offer of housing made to a homeless applicant will discharge the council’s legal duty under relevant homelessness legislation. 3.3 Transfer list Applicants will be placed on this list if they are: • a tenant of South Lanarkshire Council (including residents of Gypsy/Traveller sites owned by South Lanarkshire Council); or • a tenant of a housing co-operative which manages properties on behalf of South Lanarkshire Council; or • a tenant of a HomeFinder partner living in South Lanarkshire; or • a tied tenant of South Lanarkshire Council. Applications will be assessed on the basis of the points categories outlined at point 3.6. 74
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Applicants will be placed on the Transfer list in order of the applicant with the highest combined points total (most need). Where more than one applicant has the same level of points, the date of application for housing will be used to determine the priority placing on the list. 3.4 Waiting list Applicants will be placed on this list if they are: • a tenant of another local authority or non HomeFinder Registered Social Landlord • a sub tenant or lodger • living care of relatives, friends or others • an owner occupier • individuals living in houses in multiple occupation (for example, hostels) • a tied tenant who is not employed by South Lanarkshire Council • a tenant with a Short Assured Tenancy, an Assured Tenancy, or a tenant within the private sector with a Private Residential Tenancy. • living in a caravan/mobile/park home as their main residence Applicants will be assessed on the basis of the points categories outlined at point 3.6. Applicants will be placed on the Waiting list in order of their combined points total (most need). Where more than one applicant has the same level of points, the date of application for housing will be used to determine the priority placing on the list. Note: added in caravan/mobile home park residents as policy currently silent on this. 3.5 Other categories Applicants will only be placed on this list in exceptional circumstances where their housing need cannot be effectively met through any of the other lists. As the needs of those placed within this list are likely to be varied, each applicant will be considered for housing on the basis of their individual circumstances. Examples of applicants who may be eligible to be placed on this list include: • applicants who are experiencing domestic abuse and who have an agreed housing pathway plan * • applicants who have an approved Kinship Care agreement in place with South Lanarkshire Council Social Work Resources and whose home is unsuitable as a result of their caring responsibilities • applicants with significant community care needs, such as those returning to the community from long stay residential care • applicants living in accommodation which does not meet the tolerable standard • applicants who are required to be re-housed as part of a regeneration or improvement programme. The examples provided above are not exhaustive and other circumstances will be considered on an individual basis. 75
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* The council operates a dedicated in house service which works closely with specialist partner organisations to support victims of domestic abuse. More information on the council’s approach to managing supporting and assisting those experiencing domestic abuse is provided within the Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy, which is available on the council’s website www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. Further details on the Other categories list All applicants placed on the Other categories list will be considered to have the same urgent need for re-housing. Priority on the list will be determined by the individual circumstances of applicants and not on the basis of an award of points. If placed on this list, applicants are likely to have a need for a specific type of housing. This means that they will only be offered a property type which is suitable for their needs. If placed on the Other categories list, the council aims to house applicants within a reasonable timescale and make an offer of housing which matches their preferences. To assist in achieving this aim, applicants cannot be unreasonably restrictive in terms of the area or property choices made and these preferences will be regularly reviewed to ensure that they are reasonable. If it is considered that preferences are too restrictive or limited, an offer of housing will be made which is considered to be reasonable in light of assessed needs. Applicants will receive one priority offer of housing as an applicant within this category. Where applicants unreasonably refuse this offer, their circumstances will be reassessed and they will be placed on one of the other lists, where they will be eligible to receive a further two offers of housing. Section 7 provides further details on this and information on offers of housing is also available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 3.6 Definition of points categories available to Transfer and Waiting list applicants Set out below are the points categories available to Transfer and Waiting list applicants. Serious health need Health points will only be awarded if: • the applicant or a member of their household has been assessed as having a serious and enduring health condition; and • their present accommodation is unsuitable in light of their health needs; and • cannot be adapted and or equipment, health/care support services cannot be provided to meet their needs; and • rehousing to suitable accommodation is required to improve their housing situation 76
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Section 7 provides further details on the health assessment process and the definition of the priority categories. Points available: 120 points Insecurity of tenure (available to Waiting list applicants) Insecurity of tenure points will only be awarded to applicants who are considered not to have security of tenure. Insecurity of tenure points will not be awarded to applicants who have a Scottish Secure Tenancy, an Assured Tenancy or a Private Residential Tenancy within the private rented sector or own their own home (except where a notice to leave or repossession action has been served). The table below provides details of the circumstances in which an applicant will be eligible to receive points available under this category. Circumstances points awarded • Applicants who are expected to lose their current accommodation within 6 months • Applicants who have been asked to leave a tied tenancy and who meet the criteria set out below 150 • Applicants who are expected to lose their current accommodation within 6 - 10 months • Applicants who are veterans of the armed forces whose circumstances are insecure and who do not meet the armed forces criteria under the Urgent Housing Need list 100 • Applicants whose circumstances are insecure, for example, living ‘care of’ another person/household 60 Tied tenants Applicants will only be awarded points if they are required to leave their tied accommodation as a result of one of the following reasons: • redundancy • retirement • ill health; or • death of a spouse. Applicants will not be awarded points if they: • voluntarily gave up their employment; or • have been dismissed as a result of their own actions. Applicants must demonstrate that they are required to live in the tied accommodation in order to carry out their job and occupancy of the house is a specific condition of their employment. Points will not be awarded where applicants are merely allowed (rather than required) to live in accommodation because of the job they are doing. 77
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Applicants will be required to provide written confirmation from their employer: • of their length of service • that their employment is being terminated • that they are required to leave the tied tenancy • of the reason for termination of employment; and • of the date they are required to vacate the property. Applicants will only be awarded points under this category if: • employment and accommodation are within South Lanarkshire; and • length of service is in excess of two years. Points under these circumstances will be awarded up to six months prior to and up to six months following the tenancy termination date. Applicants will not be eligible for points under this category if they obtain alternative permanent accommodation, i.e. a Scottish Secure Tenancy from another local authority or Registered Social Landlord or an Assured Tenancy or a Private Residential Tenancy or purchase a property. Overcrowding Overcrowding points will be awarded if applicants are currently occupying a property which is too small for their households needs (under the terms of the occupancy standard – see Section 4). Applications will be pointed on the basis of the number of bedrooms that the household requires in order to meet the occupancy standard, regardless of the property size applicants qualify for. The table below provides details of the points available under this category. Additional bedrooms required points awarded 1 additional bedroom required 2 additional bedrooms required 3 additional bedrooms required 4 additional bedrooms required 40 80 120 160 Points Available: 40 points per extra bedroom required up to a maximum of 160 points Care and support Care and support points will be awarded if an applicant is applying to move house to either give or receive care and support. Applicants will only receive points under this category if they can demonstrate that: • the care and support is essential to allow either the applicant or the person they care for, to remain in their own home • it is not reasonable for the carer to provide the level of care and support unless they live closer to the person requiring the care and support; or 78
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Points under this category will be awarded for specific letting areas that are within reasonable distance of the person providing/requiring the care and support. Individual circumstances and availability of accommodation will be taken into account when considering letting area preferences (e.g. ability to access transport). Points available: 60 points Under occupancy Under occupancy points will be awarded if: • the applicant is a current tenant of South Lanarkshire Council or a HomeFinder Registered Social Landlord; and • the applicant and their household do not require all of the bedrooms in their current home. In line with the occupancy standard (see Section 4), points will be awarded for each bedroom applicants do not require. Applicants living in a one or two bedroom property, which is suitable in terms of the occupancy standard, will not be eligible to receive under occupancy points. The table below provides details of the points available under this category. Under occupancy criteria points awarded Household requires 1 bedroom less 10 Household requires 2 bedrooms less 20 Household requires 3 bedrooms less 30 Household requires 4 bedrooms less 40 3.7 Summary of points categories Set out below is a summary of the points categories detailed in 3.6. Points category Points awarded List eligibility Serious health need 120 Transfer list Waiting list Insecurity of tenure 150 (high) 100 (medium) 60 (low) Waiting list Overcrowding 40 points per additional bedroom required to a maximum of 160 points Transfer list Waiting list Care and support 60 Transfer list Waiting list Under occupancy 10 points for each bedroom not required Transfer list 79
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Section 4 - Occupancy Standard 4.1 The standard The standard set out below is used to determine the number of rooms that the applicant and their household require. A separate bedroom is required by: • a single person aged 16 years and above • a couple • two children of the opposite sex unless one is aged eight years or over, in which case each child will require a separate bedroom • two children of the same sex under 16 years, unless the age difference is 10 years or over. It should be noted that in calculating the occupancy standard, no more than two people, regardless of age, are expected to share a bedroom. 4.2 Size of property The table below provides details of the size(s) of property that applicants can choose, based on their household composition. Number of bedrooms required 1 2 3 4 5 Bedroom sizes that can be chosen Bedsit 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 Given the variations in the supply and demand profile across South Lanarkshire, it may be necessary in some areas to vary the above occupancy standard. Any variations from the general occupancy standard will be detailed within local letting initiatives. Section 5 provides further details on local letting arrangements. Rules on the occupancy standard Applicants can select the size(s) of property that meets their household’s needs as determined by the occupancy standard: • if applicants are living in an overcrowded situation and there is no accommodation of the size required within their area(s) of choice, then they can be considered for accommodation which is smaller than their needs if it eases their overcrowding • if applicants have equal or majority access to a child(ren), they can select the size of property required by their household when all members are permanently resident • if applicants are providing Kinship Care on a part-time basis, they can select the size of property required by their household when all members are permanently resident • where applicants have overnight access to a child(ren), they can select a property size which provides one bedroom more than they would otherwise be entitled to under the occupancy standard. If they are already placed on the list 80
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for one bedroom more than their permanent household requires, they are not able to be placed for an additional bedroom. Further details on the rules in relation to contact with children are provided in section 10, Miscellaneous Provisions. In addition to the above, there may be special circumstances in which the occupancy standard would be varied to allow an additional bedroom. For instance, if applicants or a member of their household, requires an additional room to receive medical treatment from home, or have a development or neurodevelopmental disability that would have an adverse impact on another child who shares a bedroom. 81
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Section 5 – Local letting arrangements 5.1 Letting targets The council is committed to ensuring that the allocation process is transparent and accountable. At the beginning of each financial year, the council will set and publish banded targets for the percentage of lets which will be directed to applicants within each of the four housing lists. Letting targets will be set at both a South Lanarkshire and local level and will be informed by local needs and circumstances and take account of supply and demand. Where a new council housing development is planned within an area, letting targets will be set for the development to help ensure the sustainability of the new community. Letting targets for new build developments will be set through the establishment of a local letting initiative and will contribute towards the achievement of the targets identified for the local area. 5.2 Local letting initiatives Across South Lanarkshire there are differences in the number, types and sizes of homes owned by the council and there are also differences in the level of demand for housing. In addition, there are some areas where, due to local circumstances, there is a need to vary the housing allocation policy to take account of the supply of housing and the needs and demands that exist locally. Where it is identified that there is a need to vary the housing allocation policy or to set letting targets for a new build development, a local letting initiative may be developed. Local letting initiatives will clearly set out the arrangements in place and the area, property type and applicant group that the initiative will cover. Local letting initiatives will detail aims and objectives which will align with the aims of the housing allocation policy. Letting targets and local letting initiatives will be subject to consultation with tenants, Registered Social Landlords, partners and other service users and approved annually by Housing and Technical Resources Committee. Details of letting targets and initiatives will be published on the council’s website www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. Both letting targets and initiatives will be monitored and reviewed to ensure that the outcomes are as intended and that they are contributing to the aims of the housing allocation policy. A report detailing performance in relation to letting targets and initiatives will be presented to Housing and Technical Resources Committee each year along with revised letting targets and initiatives for the year ahead. This approach aims to ensure that a more flexible and strategic approach is taken to the allocation of housing in South Lanarkshire. 82
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Section 6 - Managing applications for housing 6.1 Offers of housing – Transfer and Waiting list Applicants will be eligible to receive up to two reasonable offers of housing which meet the preferences as stated on their housing application, based on the following: • area of choice • size of property • type of property • any other specific requirements. The council will consider an offer to be reasonable if it meets the preferences stated on the application, based on the criteria set out above. Before an offer of housing is made, account will be taken of the applicant’s individual needs and circumstances, the effective use of stock and any impact on the wider community. The overall objective is to address housing need in accordance with the policy. This is consistent with both the principles of the council’s Equality and Diversity Policy and the common aims and objectives agreed by the council and HomeFinder partners. If applicants refuse an offer of housing, contact will be made to discuss their preferences and housing options in more detail. The council aims to provide relevant housing options advice and information on supply, turnover and demand to ensure applicants can make informed choices about their preferences. If applicants refuse a second reasonable offer, their application will be suspended for a period of six months. At the end of this period, the application will be reinstated, and the applicant will be eligible to receive a further two offers. 6.2 Offers of housing to priority applicants If applicants are considered to have a priority for housing, i.e. they are placed on the Urgent housing need list or Other categories list, they will receive one offer of housing as a priority applicant. If applicants unreasonably refuse the offer made to them on this basis, their application will be re-assessed, and they will be placed on one of the other housing lists. 6.3 Cancellation of housing applications Housing applications will only be cancelled from the housing register in the following circumstances: • applicants have requested that it be removed from the register (in writing or by e-mail) • the council has been notified of the applicant’s death • applicants have failed to respond to the review of their application • applicants have repeatedly failed to respond to correspondence from the council requesting contact • applicants housing need has been met by a council or other social landlord, or through mutual exchange or as a result of purchasing a property • the council has established that the applicant has no legal right to a tenancy. 83
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6.4 Suspension of housing applications In certain circumstances it may be appropriate to suspend an application for housing for a period of time. Where applications have been suspended applicants will not be considered for or receive an offer of housing during the period of the suspension. A suspension will not affect an applicant’s points level. Set out in the table below are details of the reasons and circumstances which will result in an application for housing being suspended and details of the timescale that the suspension is likely to apply. Suspension reasons and circumstances where a suspension will apply Rules and timescale of suspension 1 Anti-social behaviour - by an applicant, member of their household or a visitor to their home. The list below provides examples of the types of behaviour considered to be anti-social. It should be noted that the list is not exhaustive: • evidenced annoyance, harassment, abusive or threatening behaviour towards staff members, neighbours or in the community. • criminal convictions relating to or in the vicinity of a current or previous address e.g. drug dealing, fire raising or violence ● extensive damage caused to a landlord’s property ● Anti-Social Behaviour Order granted ● Eviction decree granted relating to anti- social behaviour ● An evidenced history of anti-social behaviour within the previous 36 months. Where the applicant has an existing application for housing and anti-social behaviour has been established, the application will be suspended. Where an offer of housing has been made to the applicant, and anti-social behaviour has been established, the offer of housing will be withdrawn. Suspension timescale - up to 36 months (suspension timescale subject to nature and severity of the anti- social behaviour) Following application of the suspension, the case will be reviewed by an Area Housing Manager to determine whether: • the applicant can demonstrate their ability to behave in such a way as not to cause harassment, nuisance, annoyance, alarm or distress to others. • the household will be able to maintain a future tenancy in an acceptable manner. 2 Tenancy related debt - attributable to the applicant as a tenant of a social rented landlord and accrued within the previous 3 years Suspension will be applied where the applicant has rent arrears or any other tenancy related debt (for example, rechargeable repairs/service charges). Exceptions to this would be where: • the debt has been paid off in full Suspension timescale – up to 36 months The suspension will be lifted in the following circumstances:- • immediately following full payment of the debt; or • where an arrangement to pay off the debt has been maintained for a minimum of three months; or 84
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Suspension reasons and circumstances where a suspension will apply Rules and timescale of suspension • the level of debt is equivalent to or less than a month’s full rent before any benefit adjustments • an agreement with the tenant has been made to pay the debt off and this has been maintained for at least three months and is continuing • the debt is not the responsibility of the applicant as a tenant • where the debt has been reduced to less than a month’s rent 3 Breach of tenancy condition(s) Suspension will be applied where the applicant is a current tenant of a council or Registered Social Landlord and has breached their tenancy conditions. For example. • unsatisfactory condition of property, garden, common areas, disposal of rubbish, wilful damage, vandalism, control of pets • where alterations/improvements have been carried out on a property without the relevant approval from the Council or Registered Social Landlord Suspension timescale – up to 36 months Suspension will be lifted as soon as the council or Registered Social Landlord is satisfied that the condition of the property, or any other breach of tenancy, has improved to a satisfactory level. The suspension will continue until the landlord is satisfied that the property has been brought up to a satisfactory condition and that any rechargeable repairs associated with bringing the property up to a satisfactory standard have been paid. 4 Refusal of a second offer of housing Suspension will be applied where the applicant has refused a second reasonable offer of housing within a 12 month period (made in accordance with the applicant’s preferences). Suspension timescale – 6 months 5 Fraud, false or misleading information Suspension will be applied where the applicant has deliberately misrepresented information in order to gain advantage over other applicants in housing need. Suspension timescale – up to 36 months 85
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6.5 Information provided to suspended applicants Where a decision has been taken to suspend an application for housing, the following information will be provided: • the reasons for the suspension • the implications of the suspension • the period of the suspension • the process for appeal against the suspension (see Section 9 – appeals and complaints) • the steps to be taken in order to have the suspension lifted; and • the information, advice and support that will be provided to assist applicants to have the suspension lifted. 6.6 Deferment of housing applications An application for housing will be deferred from the housing register where: • either the applicant has indicated that they are not currently seeking to be housed but wish their application to be considered at a later date; or • a housing plan has been agreed with the applicant, and it is appropriate to defer the application for a period of time. Once an application has been deferred, the applicant will not be considered for housing, however a deferment will not affect the points level. The council will agree the period of the deferment with the applicant and advise them when this has ended. 6.7 Review of housing applications It is important that the information held within a housing application accurately reflects the applicant’s current housing situation. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their application remains up-to-date. On a regular basis applicants will be asked to review the information held within their housing application. If an applicant fails to do this, their application will be cancelled. If an application is cancelled due to a failure to respond to the review, it will only be re- instated where the applicant can demonstrate that they had good reason for not responding. 6.8 Change of applicant’s circumstances As noted at point 6.7, it is important that housing applications are kept up to date. Applicants are required to inform the council of any changes in circumstances, as this may have an effect upon the application, for example: • if the applicant moves house • if the applicant leaves or joins another household • if a member of the household reaches either 8 or 16 years of age. In addition, applicants must also inform the council of any change to their contact details. If the council is unable to contact an applicant, then their application may be cancelled. Changes to applications will be processed in accordance with the council’s service standards 86
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6.9 Change of application preferences Applicants may at any time change the preferences specified on their housing application. Any changes to preferences will be processed in accordance with the council’s service standards. 87
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Section 7 - Health assessment and priorities 7.1 Health assessment Health points will only be awarded where re-housing would significantly improve the suitability of an applicant’s (or a member of their moving household’s) housing in light of their health needs and only for accommodation which meets their requirements. The consideration of health issues includes physical, mental and developmental factors. If an applicant wishes to be considered for re-housing on the basis of their (or a member of their moving household’s) health need, applicants must complete a Home and Health Assessment form. This form is available on request from any housing office. When considering an applicant’s health needs, the council will firstly: • assess their current home and consider how the health condition affects their ability to manage at home; and • establish to what extent their ability or inability to function or perform essential daily living tasks is impacted on by their current home; and • consider whether the current home can be adapted, equipment, or health/care support services arranged to enable them to remain in their home. Having a health condition will not in itself be grounds for an award of health points. 7.2 Health priority Health priority will only be awarded where the current home cannot be adapted, equipment or health/care support services provided to meet the applicant (or a member of the moving household’s) health requirements. The council will discuss with the applicant whether providing them with support, installing equipment or carrying out adaptations would make their home suitable to their needs. Where possible, the council or a Registered Social Landlord (if appropriate) will arrange to provide appropriate support, equipment or carry out the necessary adaptations required to allow the applicant to continue to live in their home. Where more than one person within the household to be re-housed has a health condition, an assessment of the combined health needs of the household will be carried out. It should be noted however that only one level of medical points/priority will be awarded. In considering the health needs of the household, any special circumstances will also be taken into account which would require the occupancy standard to be varied to allow for an additional bedroom. For instance, if the applicant or a member of the household required an additional room to receive medical treatment from home, or where a member of the household has a developmental or neurodevelopmental disability and there is a specific requirement for a separate bedroom to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of the household. 88
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If an applicant is assessed as having a health need, the council may restrict the types of housing that are offered to meet their housing need. For example, if an applicant‘s needs are assessed and their health would improve if they could move to an accessible property, the applicant would only receive health points/priority for moving to this kind of property. The council will not offer housing that might make the applicant’s housing situation worse. 89
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Section 8 - Sheltered housing - assessment and priorities 8.1 Introduction Sheltered housing aims to meet the needs of older people who can live independently in their own home with housing support. Across South Lanarkshire, there is a variety of sheltered housing, from purpose built developments to self-contained bungalows and flats. Tenants who live in sheltered housing developments are required to need and accept the housing support provided by the sheltered housing service. 8.2 Aims of the policy The aims of the sheltered housing allocation policy are consistent with those set out in Section 1 of this policy. In addition, the council aims to allocate sheltered housing to applicants who enjoy living independently but also need the reassurance and support provided by the sheltered housing service. 8.3 HomeOptions It is important that applicants have the information that they need to make informed choices about their housing options. There is a range of information available on the council website for applicants to consider when applying for a house. In addition, the HomeOptions Service, based within local housing offices, can also provide advice and help on the housing options available in South Lanarkshire. This information is tailored to an applicant’s individual needs and circumstances and aims to ensure that applicants understand the pressures on council housing and make realistic choices about where they wish to live. Applicants can access a range of HomeOptions information and local housing office contact details on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 8.4 Who can apply To apply for sheltered housing, applicants must normally: • be of state retirement pension age or over and be able to live independently with support and/or personal care. Where applicants apply as a couple, one of them must be state retirement pension age, or over, unless there are exceptional circumstances • be retired from full time employment. Where applicants apply as a couple, one of them must be retired from full time employment. Exceptions to the above criteria may apply, for example: • where a sheltered property has been specially designed or adapted to meet specific needs and there are no such applicants who meet the required age criteria, younger applicants who have appropriate needs may be considered where it is identified that sheltered housing is a suitable option • if applicants have a particular need which would be met by sheltered housing, for example a disability 90
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• if there is no demand for a particular development or property type, applications may be considered from applicants who have not yet reached state retirement age, but who otherwise meet the above criteria. 8.5 How to apply Applicants should complete the HomeFinder housing application form if they wish to apply for sheltered housing, as explained in Section 2. Applicants can also consider applying for other types of housing as well as sheltered housing. A range of information on housing options for older people is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 8.6 Choice of sheltered developments Applicants can apply for sheltered housing in any area of South Lanarkshire and select any number of developments they wish to be housed within. In addition to the sheltered housing that the council owns and manages, there are a number of sheltered housing developments owned by Registered Social Landlords (RSLs). The council has an agreement with these RSLs to nominate applicants from the housing register. To help applicants decide on which sheltered housing developments they would like to live in, there is information on council and RSL sheltered housing developments within South Lanarkshire on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 8.7 The housing register In accordance with the mainstream allocation policy, applicants will be placed on one of the following housing lists as described in Section 3: • Urgent housing need • Transfer list • Waiting list • Other categories Where an applicant is placed on the Urgent housing need list or Other categories list, the council aims to make an offer of housing which matches their preferences within a reasonable timescale. To assist the council to achieve this aim, applicants cannot be unreasonably restrictive in terms of the area or property choices they have made. These preferences will be regularly reviewed to make sure that they are reasonable. Applicants on the Urgent housing need list or Other categories list will not be able to only select sheltered housing within their preferences unless this has been identified as the only housing option that meets their needs. 8.8 Assessing need for sheltered housing When an applicant applies for sheltered housing, in addition to the housing need points (set out in section 3), there are other factors relating to their circumstances and need for the services provided by sheltered housing, that the council will take into account, including: • an applicant cannot access services they need because of where they live • the way their house is designed means it is not suitable for their needs, and it cannot be adapted 91
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• if the applicant is isolated, lives far away from people they know or is housebound and they would like more contact with other people • to what extent the support service provided and living in this type of housing would benefit the applicant, for example, assist with day to day living such as help with arranging appointments, reporting repairs or dealing with emergency situations such as a fall at home • to what extent the applicant would benefit from the social contact that is available within sheltered housing. The following levels of points will be available: Category points awarded No need for sheltered housing support service 0 Low need for sheltered housing support service 120 Moderate need for sheltered housing support service 150 High need for sheltered housing support service 180 Points awarded for sheltered housing will be added to any other housing need points the applicant qualifies for. Properties will be allocated on the total combined points awarded to the applicant. Where a couple have applied for sheltered housing, an assessment of the combined household will be carried out. It should be noted however, that only one level of points will be awarded. 8.9 Allocation process Applicants will be selected from the relevant housing list as set out at section 3. Where more than one applicant has the same level of points, the date of application will be used to determine priority. The housing support service is an integral part of the sheltered housing service. When allocated sheltered housing, applicants will be asked to sign/accept the support provided. 92
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Section 9 - Appeals and complaints 9.1 Allocation appeals Applicants who feel that they have been treated unfairly under the terms of this policy, have the right to appeal. Appeals against decisions can be made regarding the following: • the housing list an applicant has been placed on • the level of points awarded • the reasonableness of the offer of housing • the reasonableness of the suspension imposed • the removal of the application from the housing list; or • the outcome of the assessment of health need. The council operates a two stage appeals process. More details on the appeals process can be found on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 9.2 Homelessness appeals The council operates a separate appeals process for homeless applicants. Details on the appeals process for homeless applicants can be found on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 9.3 Complaints Applicants dissatisfied with any aspect of the service have the right to make a complaint through the council’s comments, compliments and complaints procedure. There are various ways to make a complaint, including completing the council’s online comments and complaints form. Further information on the comments, compliments and complaints procedure and how to make a complaint can be found on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. If, after exhausting the council’s complaints procedure, an applicant continues to be dissatisfied with the service, that they have received, a further complaint can be made to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will only consider complaints of injustice or hardship as a result of maladministration or service failure. The address of the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman is: Bridgeside House, 99 McDonald Road, Edinburgh, EH7 4NS (FREEPOST SPSO) 93
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9.4 Arrangements for monitoring and reviewing the policy To support the achievement of the policy objectives and to make sure that the letting targets set for each of the housing lists are being achieved, the policy will be subject to ongoing monitoring and review. A report will be presented to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on an annual basis and will detail progress made against: • the overall objectives of the policy, • letting targets; and • local letting initiatives The report will also seek approval for letting targets and local letting initiatives for the next financial year. Performance reports relating to the operation of the allocation policy will also be reported to tenants and other customers through groups such as the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group and at local area meetings. 9.5 The Scottish Housing Regulator The Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) is responsible for the regulation of social landlords in Scotland. The SHR exists to protect the interests of tenants, homeless people and others who use the housing services provided by social landlords. This policy provides the basis for the delivery of a key housing service, the allocation of council housing, and as such, the policy and its outcomes will be an area the SHR will consider when examining the council’s housing services. More information about the work of the SHR can be found at www.scottishhousingregulator.gov.uk. 94
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Section 10 - Miscellaneous provisions 10.1 Residence and contact with children Where an applicant and a former partner have a shared responsibility for children, they will be considered for accommodation on the following basis: • where children are mainly resident with the applicant, (i.e. for four or more nights a week); or • if block contact arrangements are in place for more than six months of the year. The number of rooms required will be determined by the total number of people within the household (see occupancy standard, section 4). If an applicant and a former partner have equal residence rights, both will qualify for a property on the basis that the children are resident on a full-time basis. Where applicants have overnight contact with children, they will be considered for accommodation which provides one bedroom more than is required by the permanent household unless this would result in statutory overcrowding. If the current accommodation is adequate for the children, then the applicant will not be eligible for an additional bedroom. In certain circumstances, discretion may be applied in determining the size of accommodation required by a household. Where the residence and contact arrangements have been made formally through the court or a lawyer, copies of relevant documentation should be provided with the application. – less formal Where there is no formal agreement, applicants will be required to provide details of the arrangement and a letter of confirmation from either the former partner or other acceptable source. 10.2 Expectant mothers Where an applicant or member of their household is pregnant, they will be placed on the housing register for the appropriate size of property required by the household, following the birth of the child. It should be noted that where the birth of a child will result in overcrowding of the household, additional points to reflect this will not be applied to the application until after the birth of the baby. 10.3 Fostering and adopting children Where an applicant advises that they are considering fostering or adopting, the applicant will be eligible to be placed on the housing register for the size of property required by the expanded household. 10.4 Part-time occupants Where a household includes an individual(s) who is/are absent from the home for regular or pro-longed periods of time (e.g. offshore worker) then they will be treated as a permanent member where the property is confirmed to be their only or principal home. 95
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10.5 Joint tenancies A joint tenancy is where the tenancy of a property is shared between two or more individuals over the age of 16 years. The council encourages joint tenancies as they provide security of tenure for each individual. 10.6 Mutual exchanges To encourage mobility among existing tenants the council operates a mutual exchange scheme. A mutual exchange can occur where two or more tenants agree, with the consent of their landlord, to exchange homes. Exchanges can take place between South Lanarkshire Council tenants, tenants of other councils or tenants of Registered Social Landlords. Applications to exchange houses should be submitted using the online form available on the council’s website www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. The council will consider each application on an individual basis and will not unreasonably withhold permission. There are certain circumstances which may result in approval not being granted, for example where the exchange would result in one of the parties being overcrowded. Further details on the mutual exchange scheme can be found on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. If you need this information in another language or format, please contact us to discuss how we can best meet your needs. Phone 0303 123 1015 or email equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 96
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Review of South Lanarkshire Council Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] seek endorsement from Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the introduction of the revised South Lanarkshire Council Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites with effect from 5 April 2027 ?1ur [1purpos 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. Housing and Technical Resources Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the revised South Lanarkshire Council Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites, attached as Appendix 1, be endorsed; (2) that the revised Policy be submitted to Executive Committee on 16 September 2026 for approval; and (3) that subject to endorsement, the revised Policy be implemented with effect from 5 April 2027. [[1recs] 3. Background 3.1. South Lanarkshire Council currently has two Gypsy/Traveller sites – Shawlands Crescent in Larkhall and Springbank Park in East Kilbride. 3.2. The current Pitch Allocation Policy for the Council’s Gypsy/Traveller sites was introduced in April 2020, following approval from Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 5 February 2020. 3.3. In line with the Housing and Technical Resources Strategy and Policy Review Schedule, approved on an annual basis by Housing and Technical Resources, the Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites has been subject to review during 2025/2026. 4. Consultation and Engagement 4.1. To inform the development of the consultative draft Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites:- ♦ consultation with residents on both Gypsy/Traveller sites was undertaken to understand their experiences of the Policy and suggested improvements ♦ a good practice review was carried out, assessing 15 other local authority policies for allocating pitches 13 97
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4.2. On 14 April 2026, the consultative draft policy was published on the Council’s website along with an online survey. Throughout the consultation the Policy was routinely promoted through the Council’s social media channels as well as an article published on the South Lanarkshire View. 4.3. A detailed consultation plan was implemented with a wide range of partners and key stakeholders invited to provide feedback and comments on the Policy, including:- ♦ customer groups – Gypsy/Traveller site residents, Tenant Participation Co- ordination Group ♦ internal stakeholders - Housing Services/other Resources staff members, Equality and Diversity Co-ordination Group ♦ partner agencies - Registered Social Landlords, Community Planning Partners, Lanarkshire Armed Forces Community and Covenant Group ♦ equality groups – MECOPP, Article 12 in Scotland ♦ COSLA and other local authorities across Scotland with Gypsy/Traveller sites 4.4. An awareness session was held with elected members on 10 June 2026 to discuss the reviews of the Housing Allocation Policy and the Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites. 5. Summary of Feedback Received 5.1. In addition to the stakeholder consultation activity detailed at 4.3, 24 responses were received through the online survey, with generally positive feedback received:- ♦ 83% of respondents agreed that the aims of the Policy are clear ♦ 79% of respondents agreed that the information on applying for a pitch is clear ♦ 75% of respondents agreed with the suspension criteria and timescales that apply ♦ 71% of respondents agreed with the priority categories and qualifying criteria for a pitch 5.2. The views and comments received during the consultation, including those obtained from the online survey and directly from stakeholders, were taken into account and informed the development of the revised Policy. 6. Summary of Changes to the Pitch Allocation Policy 6.1. The revised Pitch Allocation Policy reflects the feedback received during the consultation period. The revised Policy will continue to support the Council’s approach to ensuring fair and efficient allocations when a vacant pitch becomes available, with a summary of the key changes set out below:- Aims of the Policy ♦ an additional Policy aim has been included to reflect the commitment to supporting the cultural lifestyle of the Gypsy/Traveller community Applying for a Pitch ♦ updated to emphasise support available to complete and submit application forms Exceptional Circumstances (potential change providing more clarity/further examples) ♦ amended to provide further clarity about what may constitute exceptional circumstances while maintaining flexibility to respond to unanticipated situations 98
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7. Overview of the Revised Policy 7.1. The Policy sets out the Council’s approach to allocating vacant pitches at the two Gypsy/Traveller sites in South Lanarkshire, outlining:- ♦ how to apply for a pitch ♦ priority categories and qualifying criteria ♦ suspension of applications 7.2. The Policy outlines a range of aims to support the allocation of pitches in line with legal duties to ensure that vacant pitches are allocated to households assessed as most in need. Details of the priority levels are provided alongside information on how allocations will be made between priority levels. 7.3. The Policy clearly describes how applications will be managed, including offers, refusals, cancellation of applications, and criteria for suspensions and associted timescales. The Policy also sets out how customers complain if they are unhappy with a decision and provides contact details for further assistance. 7.4. The full draft Policy is provided within Appendix 1. 8. Next Steps 8.1. Subject to endorsement by Housing and Technical Resources Committee, the revised policy will be submitted to Executive Committee for approval on 16 September 2026. Should this be approved, it is proposed the policy will be implemented from 5 April 2027. 8.2. A review of existing procedures and documentation is underway to ensure alignment with the revised policy, should it be approved. 9. Employee Implications 9.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 10. Financial Implications 10.1. There are no financial implications associated with this report. 11. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 11.1. This report does not impact on the natural environment, climate change or sustainability. 12. Risk and Other Implications 12.1. The content of this report will contribute to the evidence to support the requirements of the Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator. 13. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 13.1. An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out as part of the review of the Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites. The assessment of the revised Policy has confirmed the positive contribution it will make in supporting the cultural lifestyle and bespoke housing needs of the Gypsy/Traveller community across South Lanarkshire. This can be accessed on the council’s website at South Lanarkshire Council Integrated Impact Assessments. 13.2. Details of the consultation and engagment undertaken in relation to the review of the Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites is set out in section 4. 99
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Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 6 July 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live We will work to put people first and reduce inequality Focused on people and their needs Caring, connected, sustainble communities Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous Reference Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 5 February 2020 Executive Committee, 26 February 2020 List of Background Papers Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Elizabeth Anne Callaghan, Housing Services Manager Phone: 07585 404750 E-mail: elizabethanne.callaghan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Claire Frew, Strategy Co-ordinator Email: claire.frew@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 100
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Appendix 1 Housing and Technical Resources South Lanarkshire Council Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites 101
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Contents Section 1 – Introduction 1.1 Background 1.2 Aims of the policy 1.3 Access to information 1.4 Ensuring equal opportunities and other relevant duties 1.5 Service standards Section 2 – Applying for a pitch 2.1 Access to the list 2.2 How applicants are queued 2.3 Establishing health and support needs 2.4 Allocations between priority categories 2.5 Exceptional circumstances Section 3 – Managing applications 3.1 Offers 3.2 Refusals 3.3 Cancellation of applications 3.4 Suspensions Section 4 – Appeals and complaints 4.1 Pitch allocation appeals 4.2 Complaints 4.3 Monitoring and review of the policy Section 5 – Useful contacts 102
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Section 1 – Introduction 1.1 Background South Lanarkshire Council operates two Gypsy/Traveller sites: • Springbank Park, East Kilbride • Shawlands Crescent, Larkhall This policy sets out how vacant pitches at the Gypsy/Traveller sites will be allocated. Following consultation, the revised policy will be presented to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 2 September 2026. The policy was developed in accordance with the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987, as amended. 1.2 Aims of the policy The aims of the policy are to: • Support the cultural lifestyle of the Gypsy/Traveller community through the allocation of pitches; • Ensure those assessed as being most in need are prioritised; • Be fair, efficient and consistent in the allocation of pitches; • Make sure the allocation process helps to achieve balanced and sustainable communities; • Comply with all relevant legislation; • Be consistent with all equality and diversity requirements and other legal duties. 1.3 Access to information Any information that is held regarding an individual must be treated lawfully and correctly in line with the safeguards outlined in the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, which require data to be: • lawfully, fairly and transparently processed • processed for limited purposes • adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which it is processed • accurate and kept up to date • kept no longer than the period necessary and • kept securely against unauthorised or unlawful processing and protected against accidental loss, destruction or damage. The processing shall be carried out in a way that ensures compliance with the rights of data subjects, including: • the right to be informed • the right of access • the right to rectification • the right to erasure (so far as applicable) • the right to restrict processing • the right to data portability (so far as applicable) • the right to object to processing (including profiling); and • the right not to be subject to fully automated decision making including profiling. Further information is available by viewing the council's General Privacy Notice, Data Sharing Policy, Information Security Policy and Information Compliance Policy. Under the General Data Protection Regulation UK 2018, applicants are entitled to access any information the council holds in relation to their application. 103
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More information on this can be found by: • Visiting the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk • Phoning your local housing office • Visiting the site office on either Gypsy/Traveller site 1.4 Ensuring equal opportunities and other relevant duties South Lanarkshire Council recognises the Gypsy/Traveller community as a minority ethnic group and the Pitch Allocation Policy aims to support the Gypsy/Traveller cultural lifestyle. South Lanarkshire Council has an Equality and Diversity Policy which is committed to the principle that everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. In relation to the allocation of council housing, this policy is consistent with the requirements of the Equality and Diversity Policy and ensures that the council acts fairly and lawfully in all that it does. The council does not discriminate against applicants in any way on the grounds of age, disability, gender, gender identity (reassignment), marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief or sexual orientation. In addition, the council must ensure that it considers and takes account of the impact of any policy in relation to other relevant legal duties and requirements. To support these considerations, as part of the development of this policy, an Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) has been carried out to ensure that the policy is inclusive, does not unfairly disadvantage any particular group and is compliant with the council’s legal duties and requirements. Details of the IIA is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. If any applicant feels that they have been treated unfairly they have the right, through the appeals process, to have their case reviewed. Section 4 provides further details on the appeals process. If information in another language or format is required, please contact the council to discuss how these needs can best be met by e-mailing equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 1.5. Service Standards The service standards relating to the Pitch Allocation Policy for Gypsy/Traveller Sites are detailed on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk Section 2 – Applying for a pitch 2.1 Access to the list Anyone over the age of 16 can add their name to the waiting list for a pitch, provided they are not prevented from doing so by immigration or any other relevant legislation. Application forms can be obtained by: • Downloading a form from the council’s website or completing it online at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk • Phoning the local housing office, where staff can support you to complete the application form • Visiting the site office on either Gypsy/Traveller site, where the site officer can support you to complete the application form • Approaching a support organisation, such as MECOPP, who can support you to complete and submit your application. Contact details and addresses can be found in section 5 of the policy. 104
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2.2 How applicants are queued Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, their application will be placed in one of the following categories: Category Criteria Priority level one • The applicant has a caravan or access to a caravan which is their principal home but has nowhere to locate it. Priority level two • The applicant is living on a South Lanarkshire Council site which does not meet their health or support needs. Priority level three • The applicant is living on a council or registered social landlord site outwith South Lanarkshire, which does not meet household requirements, particularly in relation to their health or support needs. • The applicant is living on a private site. • The applicant is living in a house, as their only or principal home, which is overcrowded, or does not meet their health or support needs, and has access to a caravan. Priority level four • The applicant is living on a council owned site which meets their household health or support needs. • The applicant is living in a house which meets their housing need, is not overcrowded and has access to a caravan. 2.3 Establishing health and support needs As outlined at 2.2 above, priority levels two to four include households where their health and support needs are not currently being met. Where this has been indicated on an application for a vacant pitch, a Home and Health Assessment will be undertaken to identify whether an applicant can be supported to stay within their current accommodation or alternatively, be prioritised to move. 2.4 Allocations between priority categories When a pitch becomes vacant, consideration will in the first instance be given to applicants in priority level one. If there is no applicant in priority level one, applicants in priority level two will be considered. If there is no applicant in priority levels one or two, then applicants in priority level three will be considered. If there is no applicant in priority levels one, two or three, then applicants in priority level four will be considered. Priority within each of the levels will be given to applicants with the earliest date of application. 105
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2.5 Exceptional circumstances Where the applicant’s needs cannot be effectively met within the categories noted at 2.2 and cannot be prioritised using the process outlined at 2.3, the council may also take other needs into account and will consider how best to meet these. An assessment of need will be made based on the information included on the application form, alongside any other supporting information. This may include: • the need to be close to specialist education provision or health services; • the need to live on the site to provide or receive care and support to or from relatives; • households fleeing domestic abuse This list is not exhaustive and does not guarantee a priority decision. The council will consider all cases on an individual basis, and decisions will be made fairly and transparently. Section 3 – Managing applications 3.1 Offers Applicants will receive up to two reasonable offers. The council will consider an offer to be reasonable if it meets the preferences stated on the application form. Before an offer of a pitch is made, the council reserve the right to take account of the needs of the wider community and the impact that the allocation may have on the site. 3.2 Refusals Should an applicant refuse an offer of a pitch, contact will be made to discuss their preferences and options in more detail to ensure the suitability of any future offers. 3.3 Cancellation of applications Applications for a pitch will only be cancelled in the following circumstances:- • the applicant has requested that they be removed from the list; • the council has been notified of the applicant’s death; • the applicant’s need for a pitch has been met by another site provider; • the applicant has failed to respond to the review of their application; • the applicant has repeatedly failed to respond to the council’s attempts to contact them; or • the council has established that the applicant no longer has a legal right to be allocated a pitch. 3.4 Suspensions In certain circumstances it may be appropriate to suspend an application for a period of time. Where an applicant’s application has been suspended, they will not be considered for or receive an offer of a pitch. A suspension will not affect the date of application which can be used when establishing priority for vacant pitches, as outlined at 2.4. The table below details specific reasons and circumstances which will result in an application being suspended, as well as the length of time the suspension will apply for. Suspension reasons and circumstances where a suspension will apply Rules and timescale of suspension Anti-social behaviour – an applicant or member of their household. Where the applicant has an existing application for pitch and anti-social 106
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Suspension reasons and circumstances where a suspension will apply Rules and timescale of suspension The list below provides examples of the types of behaviour considered to be anti- social. It should be noted that the list is not exhaustive: • Annoyance, harassment, violent or intimidating behaviour towards staff members, neighbours or others • Criminal convictions relating to a tenancy e.g. drug dealing, prostitution, fire raising • Extensive damage caused to a landlord’s property • Anti-social Behaviour Order granted • Eviction decree granted relating to anti-social behaviour • Established and sustained pattern of conduct considered to be anti-social. behaviour has been established, the application will be suspended. Where an offer of a pitch has been made and anti-social behaviour has been established, the application will be suspended and the offer of a pitch withdrawn. Suspension timescale – up to 36 months (suspension timescales subject to nature and severity of the anti-social behaviour). Following application of the suspension, the case will be reviewed by the Area Housing Manager to determine whether: • The applicant can demonstrate their ability to behave in such a way as to not cause harassment, nuisance or annoyance to others. • The household will be able to occupy the site in an acceptable manner. Tenancy related debt – attributable to the applicant as a tenant of a social rented landlord (including Registered Social Landlords and other Local Authorities) and accrued within the previous three years. Suspension will be applied where the applicant has rent arrears or any other tenancy related debt (for example, rechargeable repairs/service charges). Exceptions to this would be where: • The debt has been paid off in full • The level of debt is equivalent to or less that a month’s full rent before any benefit adjustments • An agreement with the tenant has been made to pay the debt off and this has been maintained for at least three months and is continuing • The debt is not the responsibility of the applicant as a tenant Suspension timescale – up to 36 months The suspension will be lifted in the following circumstances: • Immediately following full payment of the debt; or • Where an arrangement to pay off the debt has been maintained for a minimum of three months; or • Where the debt has been reduced to less than a month’s rent Breach of occupancy conditions Suspension will be applied where the applicant is currently resident on a council owned site and has breached the terms of their occupancy agreement. For example: • Unsatisfactory condition of pitch, utility unit, common areas, disposal Suspension timescale – up to 36 months Suspension will be lifted as soon as the council is satisfied that the condition of the pitch, or any other breach of occupancy, has improve to a satisfactory level. The suspension will continue until the landlord is satisfied that the pitch has been brought up to a satisfactory condition and that any rechargeable repairs associated 107
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Suspension reasons and circumstances where a suspension will apply Rules and timescale of suspension of rubbish, wilful damage, vandalism, control of pets • Where alterations/improvements have been carried out on a pitch without the relevant approval from the council with bringing the pitch up to a satisfactory standard have been paid. Fraud, false or misleading information Suspension will be applied where the applicant has deliberately misinterpreted information in order to gain advantage over other applicants. Suspension timescale – up to 36 months Timescales will be set by Area Housing Managers relative to the severity of the fraud. Section 4 – Appeals and Complaints 4.1 Pitch Allocation appeals Applicants who feel that they have been treated unfairly under the terms of this policy, have the right to appeal. Appeals against decisions can be made regarding the following: • The priority category their application has been placed within; • The reasonableness of the offer; • The reasonableness of the suspension imposed; • The removal of their application from the list; or • The outcome of the assessment of health need. The council operates a two-stage appeals process. More information can be found by: • Visiting the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk • Phoning your local housing office • Visiting the site office on either Gypsy/Traveller site 4.2 Complaints Applicants dissatisfied with any aspect of the service have the right to make a complaint through the council’s comments and complaints procedure. Complaints will be accepted either in writing or verbally and can be registered in two ways: • Through a local housing office, where staff will register the complaint; or • By completing and returning the comments and complaints feedback form. Further information on the comments and complaints scheme can be found by: • Visiting the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk • Phoning your local housing office • Visiting the site office on either Gypsy/Traveller site If, after exhausting the council’s complaints procedure, an applicant continues to be dissatisfied with the service they have received, a further complaint can be made to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO). The Ombudsman will only consider complaints of injustice or hardship as a result of maladministration or service failure. A complaint can be made online to the SPSO at www.spso.org.uk or by writing to: The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman Bridgeside House, 99 McDonald Road, Edinburgh, EH7 4NS 108
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4.3 Monitoring and review of the policy The council will monitor applications and allocations to support the achievement of the policy objectives and to ensure that applications are processed fairly and consistently. The policy will be reviewed in line with the Housing and Technical Resources Policy Review Schedule or following changes to any relevant legislation, national or local policies. Section 5 – Useful contacts Gypsy/Traveller sites Springbank Park Kirktonholme Road East Kilbride G74 1HN Phone: 0303 123 1012 Email: housing.eastkilbride@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Shawlands Crescent Swinhill Road Larkhall ML9 2PH Phone: 0303 123 1012 Email: housing.larkhall@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Local Housing Offices Blantyre/Hamilton/Larkhall Local Housing Office Phone: 0303 123 1012 Email: housing.blantyre@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Email: housing.hamilton@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Email: housing.larkhall@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Cambuslang/Rutherglen Local Housing Office Phone: 0303 123 1012 Email: housing.cambuslang@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Email: housing.rutherglen@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Clydesdale Local Housing Office Phone: 0300 123 1012 Email: housing.carluke@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Email: housing.lanark@southlanarkshire.gov.uk East Kilbride Local Housing Office Phone: 0303 123 1012 Email: housing.eastkilbride@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 109
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement 2025/2026 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- seek approval to submit the Annual Assurance Statement (AAS) for South Lanarkshire Council to the Scottish Housing Regulator 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the South Lanarkshire Council Annual Assurance Statement 2025/2026 (attached as Appendix 1), be approved and submitted to the Scottish Housing Regulator. 3. Background 3.1. The Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) was established in 2011 as an independent body directly accountable to the Scottish Government to regulate registered social landlords (RSL’s) and local authority housing and homelessness services. The SHR does this by assessing and reporting on social landlord’s delivery of services, RSL’s financial well-being and standards of governance and where necessary intervening to secure improvements. 3.2. The SHR Regulatory Framework requires local authority landlords to submit an AAS confirming compliance with regulatory requirements and, if appropriate, identify any material breaches. Examples of such material breaches specific to local authorities include those that seriously affect the interests and safety of tenants, people who are homeless or other service users; threaten the stability, efficient running or viability of service delivery arrangements and bring the landlord into disrepute or raise public or stakeholder concern about your organisation or the social housing sector. 3.3. The framework is subject to five yearly review and in February 2024, following consultation with stakeholders, the SHR published its new Regulatory Framework and statutory guidance for social landlords. 3.4. The new framework commenced from 1 April 2024 and sets out how SHR will regulate social landlords in Scotland. 14 111
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3.5. In response to the feedback from stakeholders, the Regulator has maintained much from the previous framework. The revised framework does however include a new provision to allow it to require landlords to provide explicit assurance in the AAS on the following issues:- ♦ gas safety ♦ electrical safety ♦ water safety ♦ fire safety ♦ asbestos ♦ damp and mould ♦ lift safety 3.6. It has also strengthened the emphasis on social landlords engaging and consulting with tenants and other customers, alongside committing to a comprehensive review of the Annual Return on the Charter which it will consult on later this year. 3.7. South Lanarkshire’s AAS for 2024/2025 was approved by Housing and Technical Resource’s Committee on 8 October 2025 and subsequently submitted to the SHR following this. 4. South Lanarkshire Council Annual Assurance Statement 4.1. The AAS 2025/2026 for the Council is attached as Appendix 1. As recommended by SHR guidance, this is short, succinct, and based upon the format provided. 4.2. The key requirement of the Annual Assurance Statement is for the Committee to confirm that it is confident that appropriate systems, evidence, relationships, and channels of communication are in place to ensure the effective planning, delivery and monitoring of relevant services against statutory and regulatory requirements. 4.3. Within South Lanarkshire, the assurance required is provided through a wide range of arrangements which are in place, at a Council and Resource wide level. A summary of the key requirements for assurance and how these are addressed is provided within Appendix 2. 4.5. Provided that tenant and resident safety is not compromised, the SHR continues to indicate they will not engage with a landlord where it does not fully comply with regulatory requirements, and the landlord has effective plans to return to full compliance. For the 2025/2026 statement, there are no aspects of non-compliance being reported. 4.6. In relation to equalities and human rights, guidance on equalities data collection, ‘Collecting equality information: National guidance for Scottish social landlords’ was published in August 2021 and updated in June 2022. In this year’s AAS, social landlords are asked to provide assurance that they have or are in the process of implementing an effective approach to the collection of equalities information and are considering how a human rights approach to their work can be adopted. The Council’s position in relation to this has been reflected in the 2025/2026 statement. 112
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5. Next Steps 5.1. Subject to approval from Housing and Technical Resources Committee, the AAS will be signed off by the Chair of Housing and Technical Resources Committee and returned, as required, to the Scottish Housing Regulator to confirm the required assurance. 5.2. The results of the Annual Return on the Charter 2025/2026 are presented on an annual basis as a separate report to this Committee. 6. Employee Implications 6.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. There are no financial implications associated with this report. 8. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no climate change, sustainability or environmental implications as a result of this report. 9. Risk and Other Implications 9.1. If the Council fails to submit the AAS to the Scottish Housing Regulator with required timescales, this would result in a triggered structured escalation process including direct engagement and updating of engagement plan. 10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, strategy or plan and is not subject to impact assessment requirements. 10.2. In addition to regular regular discussion with the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group on performance and Charter reporting, specific engagement and consultation has taken place to confirm arrangements for the development and submission of the AAS. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 12 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Previous References Our regulation of Scottish Housing – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 23 January 2019 Scottish Housing Regulator - Regulation of Social Housing in Scotland – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 4 September 2019 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 25 November 2020 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 29 September 2021 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 5 October 2022 113
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Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 30 August 2023 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 18 September 2024 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Assurance Statement – Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report 8 October 2025 List of Background Papers Our Regulation of Scottish Housing – a discussion Paper January 2018 Our Regulation of Scottish Housing – a Consultation October 2018 Our Regulation of Scottish Housing – Final Framework 2019 Our Regulation of Scottish Housing – Final Framework 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Sharon Egan, Head of Housing Services Ext: 845 4862 E-mail: sharon.egan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 114
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Appendix 1 Housing and Technical Resources Executive Director Stephen Gibson South Lanarkshire Council Annual Assurance Statement South Lanarkshire Council complies with the regulatory requirements set out in Chapter 3 of the Scottish Housing Regulator’s Framework. This includes that we:- achieve all standards and outcomes in the Scottish Social Housing Charter for tenants, people who are homeless and others who use our services comply with all our legal obligations relating to housing and homelessness, equality and human rights, and tenant and resident safety In relation to equalities data collection and human rights, the Council has well established processes and policies in these areas, with consideration already embedded in how we deliver services. Work is being progressed to further develop and adjust our existing approach to the collection of equalities and human rights information along with other changes to reflect the requirements of the regulatory guidance. On an ongoing basis, the Committee specifically consider the information and evidence necessary to provide the required assurance. The Annual Assurance Statement for 2025/2026 was approved at the meeting of the council’s Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 2 September 2026. Chair’s signature: Date: 115
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Appendix 2 Assurance Requirements What Assurance required How assurance is evidenced Monitor and report performance Performance Management Framework in place and appropriately reported On an annual basis a report is provided to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on performance against Scottish Social Housing Charter requirements. Performance against the charter requirements for 2025/2026 will be reported for noting to Committee on 11 November 2026. Effective Resource and Service planning arrangements are in place. Resource and Service plans are in place to monitor progress at different levels of the planning hierarchy i.e., Community Plan, the Connect (Council) Plan, Resource and Service Plan actions and measures. Progress against Connect and Resource Plan objectives are reported to Housing and Technical Resources Committee and Executive Committee on a twice-yearly basis. In conjunction with the above, the Resource Learning and Development Plan plays a key role in delivering assurance and as such we are committed to providing the highest levels of professionalism across our services. As part of this plan and to further support our commitment, we signed up to the Chartered Institute of Housing Scotland’s, ‘Housing Professionalism Commitment’ in June 2024. Appropriate Internal Audit arrangements are in place A comprehensive internal audit programme is reviewed and implemented yearly in line with service requirements. Progress against the audit programme is reported to Finance and Corporate Resources Committee annually. Equality and Diversity Equality and diversity issues are effectively considered when making decisions. Work within the Resource in relation to equality and diversity is reported to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on an annual basis. The next update will be presented to Committee on 11 November 2026. 116
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What Assurance required How assurance is evidenced Involve tenants and other relevant service users Council and Resource Customer satisfaction levels The Resource has a rolling programme of customer satisfaction surveys in place. These are used to inform policy and service development. Key results from the survey programme are reported to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee as part of the annual report on performance against the Scottish Social Housing Charter. Customer Involvement and Scrutiny Programme in place and being delivered The Customer Involvement Strategy was reviewed in conjunction with members of the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group and was open for consultation between September and December 2023. The strategy was approved by Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 7 February 2024, with the second annual review will begin in April 2026 in conjunction with tenant representatives and will be presented to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 2 September 2026. Legal obligations Ensure that all legal obligations associated with housing and homelessness are adhered to. The Resource Strategy and Policy Review Framework ensures policies and strategies are reviewed on a cyclical basis to confirm that they are delivering the intended outcomes, reflect changes in policy/services context and are consistent with legal and regulatory requirements. An update on the framework was presented to and approved by Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 18 March 2026. Risk Management Strategy is reported to the Housing and Technical Resource Committee on a yearly basis. The next update will be reported to Committee on 11 November 2026. This council’s approach to risk management promotes consideration of risk in service delivery, planning and decision-making processes. The Strategy requires Resources to record and review risks and control actions regularly. Tenant and Have evidence to ensure that all Effective systems for monitoring and 117
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What Assurance required How assurance is evidenced resident safety legal obligations associated with tenant and resident safety are met. reporting health and safety issues are in place within the Resource and monitored through the council’s Corporate Management Team. Any proposals to address emerging health and safety requirements would be reported to Housing and Technical Resources Committee and the Annual Return on the Charter. 118
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resource Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of this report is to:- advise the Housing and Technical Resources Committee of the development and consultation on the draft Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy seek endorsement from the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the introduction of a new Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy, proposed to be implemented from 1 October 2026 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the statutory requirements, development and consultation arrangements for the proposed new Domestic Abuse Policy, be noted; and (2) that the draft Domestic Abuse Policy, as attached in Appendix 1, be endorsed for submission to the Council’s Executive Committee on 16 September 2026, for approval. 3. Background 3.1. The Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 provides the current legislative framework in relation to domestic abuse. This sits alongside the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy, which sets out the national approach to preventing and eradicating violence against women and girls. 3.2. South Lanarkshire’s ‘Equally Safe – South Lanarkshire Strategy’ confirms the Gender- Based Violence Partnership’s commitment to preventing and responding to violence against women and girls. The strategy supports safer households, raises awareness, promotes good practice, strengthens workforce skills and knowledge, and improves partnership working and communication between organisations. 3.3. The draft Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy takes account of Part 2 of the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 and more recently, the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, which introduces new powers for social landlords in domestic abuse cases. This legislation also sets out a requirement for local authorities to publish a Domestic Abuse Policy setting out measures in relation to enforcement action against perpetrators. 15 119
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3.4. New powers strengthen protection for survivors by enabling social landlords to take legal action against perpetrators where statutory conditions are met, including use of the new Ground 15A for possession within the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 and Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. This supports survivors to remain safely in the family home where appropriate. 3.5. The Policy is focused on domestic abuse and is gender neutral in its application. It is, however, recognised that domestic abuse is a form of Gender-Based violence and, in line with national trends, predominantly impacts women and girls. The Policy therefore aligns with South Lanarkshire’s Equally Safe Strategy and the Council’s wider corporate approach to Gender-Based violence and Violence Against Women and Girls. 4. Prevalence of Domestic Abuse in South Lanarkshire 4.1. Table 1 sets out the current and previous year position for households presenting as homeless where the reason recorded was ‘Dispute in household – Violent or Abusive’, the majority of these households were female applicants. Table 1 2025/2026 2024/2025 2023/2024 Number of Households 453 513 528 % share of all Homeless Applications 19.5% 20.8% 19.4% Source: Scottish Government HL1 Returns 4.2. The available information indicates that domestic abuse and violent or abusive disputes remain a significant factor in homelessness presentations. While the data appears to show a small downward trend in households reporting ‘Dispute in household – Violent or Abusive’, it remains consistent at just under 20% of all homelessness presentations. It is also recognised that not all households affected by domestic abuse present as homeless, and that the figures include all instances of violent disputes within a household. 4.3. Table 2 further breaks down ‘Dispute in households – Violence or Abuse’ to demonstrate where the violence was from a partner. Table 2 2025/2026 2024/2025 2023/2024 Number of Households presenting homeless due to Dispute Violent Partner 276 350 393 *NB 25/26 Figure is based on actuals to RP10 2025/2026 and pro rata for remainder of year to reflect reporting introduced from new ONE Housing Management System This indicates that there has been a decrease in households presenting as homeless where the reason for homelessness has been violence from a partner over the last two years. 4.4 The aim of this Policy is to prevent homelessness and respond effectively when households experience domestic abuse. This approach is consistent with the Homelessness Strategic Action Plan, focused on prevention wherever possible. 120
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5. Trauma Informed Approach 5.1. In developing the Domestic Abuse Policy, Housing Services sought to ensure that the Policy reflected a trauma informed approach and was informed by the experiences of people affected by domestic abuse. To support this, the Council’s Trauma Informed Practice Development Officer facilitated a workshop with Housing’s Gender Based Violence Group in August 2025 to review the draft Policy against the Council’s Trauma Informed Practice Roadmap. 5.2. The workshop used the Walkthrough Tool and Trauma Lens to Policies and Processes to consider whether the draft Policy promoted safety, choice, collaboration, trust and empowerment for survivors. This included consideration of how lived experience and tenant feedback had informed the Policy, how staff would be supported through training and guidance, and how people using services could continue to provide feedback to support ongoing improvement. 5.3. The review confirmed that the Policy reflects a trauma informed approach by recognising the impact of domestic abuse, supporting survivor choice, promoting early intervention and ensuring staff respond sensitively and consistently. This approach also supports the Council’s wider gender-based violence and violence against women and girls priorities. 6. Domestic Abuse Policy 6.1. The Domestic Abuse Policy has been developed through engagement with service users, partners and stakeholders. This included input from women with lived experience, tenant representatives, members of the Housing Gender Based Violence Group and the Council’s Corporate Violence Against Women and Girls Group Partnership, ensuring the Policy remains aligned to the Council’s wider gender-based violence framework. 6.2. Feedback from those with lived experience and partner consultation highlighted the importance of safe, settled accommodation, sensitive staff responses, clear information about housing and legal options, and support that enables survivors to make informed choices about their circumstances. 6.3. The aim of the Policy is to provide clear guidance for people affected by domestic abuse and for staff supporting them. It sets out housing and legal options and supports staff to recognise, respond to and meet individual needs sensitively and effectively. While the Policy title reflects the statutory requirement to publish a Domestic Abuse Policy, it remains connected to the Council’s wider corporate gender-based violence and violence against women and girls policy context. 6.4. The Policy supports a trauma informed and person-centred approach to service delivery by promoting early intervention, safety planning, informed choice and access to appropriate housing options and specialist support. This is intended to help survivors and their families access safer living arrangements and reduce the risk of homelessness where possible. 7. Housing Options and Enforcement Action 7.1. There are a range of potential housing options across tenures available to survivors of domestic abuse. It is important all options are considered and households are supported with the choice that best suits their needs. 121
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7.2. Housing Services promote use of the Housing Pathway Plan approach. This facilitates consideration of all options and enables households to make informed choices, taking account of safety planning and risk assessment. The Housing Pathway Plan approach will seek to work with survivors to prevent homelessness wherever possible, through support in sustaining accommodation, where safe to do so, or planning a move, with the homelessness route taken only where this is the household’s preferred option due to individual circumstances. 8. Service Standards 8.1. The Policy sets out service standards for households affected by domestic abuse. It provides a clear commitment that the Council will:- ♦ listen to concerns/fears ♦ risk assess ♦ safety plan ♦ explore housing options ♦ consider the wishes of the survivor and their children ♦ provide somewhere safe to stay if required ♦ offer specialist support and make necessary referrals to Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire (WASLER) or any other specialist support service as needed ♦ where appropriate complete a Housing Pathway Plan ♦ consider options to hold the perpetrator of the abuse to account for their behaviour 8.2. The expected outcomes from implementation of the Policy will be:- ♦ ensuring service delivery has a trauma informed approach ♦ providing housing options advice and information to households impacted by domestic abuse to enable them to make informed choices about their future settled housing options ♦ households affected by domestic abuse will have access to temporary accommodation and specialist support if required 9. Next Steps 9.1. Subject to endorsement from Housing and Technical Resources Committee, the Policy will be submitted to Executive Committee on 16 September 2026 for approval. 9.2. Subject to this being approved, the Policy will be published on the South Lanarkshire Council website and be effective from 1 October 2026. 9.3. Housing Services will continue to review guidance and legislative requirements relating to domestic abuse and update processes and procedures as required, ensuring ongoing alignment with the Council’s wider gender-based violence and violence against women and girls policy framework. 122
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9.4. Housing Services will monitor the implementation of the Policy through existing performance, quality assurance and case review arrangements. This will include consideration of the extent to which the Policy and associated procedures supports early intervention, trauma informed practice, access to appropriate housing options and specialist support, and improved outcomes for households affected by domestic abuse. 9.5. Feedback from victims of domestic abuse, partners and officers will be used to inform ongoing review and any amendments to the policy, with timescales for any review and approval sought at Housing and Technical Resources Committee added to the Strategy and Policy Review schedule. 10. Employee Implications 10.1. There are no employee implications related to this report. 11. Financial Implications 11.1. There are no direct financial implications arising from this report. 11.2. Long term funding in relation to the dedicated Domestic Abuse Housing Officer post is, however, not confirmed. Housing Services will continue to monitor funding arrangements and discuss this uncertainty with the Scottish Government with the aim of ensuring service provision is maintained. 12. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 12.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy which impacts on the natural environment, climate change, or sustainability. 13. Risk and Other Implications 13.1. The content of this report will contribute to the evidence to support the requirements of the Annual Assurance Statement. 13.2. There are no additional risks associated with this report. 14. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 14.1.An integrated impact assessment has been carried out on the Domestic Abuse Policy proposals outlined within this report. The assessment identified that in general the Policy will have a neutral or positive impact on protected characteristics groups and socio-economic groups. 14.2. The assessment confirmed that the Policy is likely to have a more positive impact on women and girls, as they are more likely to experience domestic abuse and wider forms of gender-based violence. Consultation has taken place with women with lived experience, tenant representatives from the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group, representatives from the Violence Against Women and Girls Partnership, Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire and through wider public consultation. 14.3. The assessment can be accessed on the Council’s website at:- www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 14.4. The draft Policy was subject to public and stakeholder consultation, as set out at 6.1. 123
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Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 12 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Focused on people and their needs ♦ We will work to put people first and reduce inequality ♦ Caring, connected, sustainable communities ♦ People live the healthiest lives possible ♦ Our children and young people thrive ♦ Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Previous Reference None List of Background Papers ♦ Homeless Strategic Plan 2026 to 2028, 3 June 2026 Contact for Further Information If you would like further information, please contact:- Sharon Egan Head of Housing Services Sharon.egan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 124
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DRAFT SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL HOUSING DOMESTIC ABUSE POLICY 1. Introduction 1.1 Background This Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy sets out how South Lanarkshire Council’s Housing Services propose to meet the housing and housing support needs of households impacted by domestic abuse. Following consultation, the policy was approved by Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 2 September 2026 and is effective from 1 October 2026. The Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy has been developed in accordance with current legislative and national policy direction and aligns with the council’s corporate and partnership policy framework on Gender-Based violence, including Equally Safe and the local Violence Against Women and Girls strategic arrangements. While this Housing Services policy is gender neutral in its application and support provision, it recognises and is clearly linked to the council’s wider corporate Gender- Based violence policy position. Domestic abuse is both a cause and consequence of inequality and disproportionately affects women and girls. We acknowledge the evidence that women are more likely to experience sustained patterns of coercive control, sexual violence and serious physical harm. However, domestic abuse can be experienced by anyone, and this policy is designed to ensure that all individuals affected by domestic abuse receive an appropriate, trauma-informed and person-centred housing response regardless of gender or circumstance. 1.2 Aim of the Policy This Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy aims to provide a clear guide for people impacted by domestic abuse and to support staff providing housing services to individuals who have experienced domestic abuse, as well as to those who perpetrate domestic abuse. The policy ensures that there is a clear understanding of housing need and Housing Services’ approach to managing, supporting and assisting those affected by domestic abuse. 1.3 Consultation The Domestic Abuse Group within Housing and Technical Resources has been responsible for the co-production and development of this Housing Services policy, 15 125
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including consultation with households with lived experience, the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group and wider partners and stakeholders. A copy of the consultation report is available on request. The draft policy has been subject to a formal three- month consultation process. 1.4 Ensuring equal opportunities and other relevant duties South Lanarkshire Council has an Equality and Diversity Policy which is committed to the principle that everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. In relation to the allocation of council housing, this Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy is consistent with the requirements of the Equality and Diversity Policy and ensures that the council acts fairly and lawfully in all that it does. The council does not discriminate against applicants in any way on the grounds of age, disability, sex, gender assignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief or sexual orientation. The Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy is consistent with the council’s vision to improve the quality of life of everyone in South Lanarkshire, in particular to support the protection of vulnerable children, young people and adults. It also aligns with and reflects Community Planning priorities and partnership working to prevent homelessness, address child poverty, tackle disadvantage and deprivation and promote sustainable communities. In addition, the council must ensure that it considers and takes account of the impact of any policy in relation to other relevant legal duties and requirements. To support these considerations, as part of the development of this Housing Services policy, an Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) has been carried out to ensure that the policy is inclusive, does not unfairly disadvantage any particular group and is compliant with the council’s legal duties and requirements. Details of the IIA are available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. If information in another language or format is required, please contact the council to discuss how these needs can best be met by e-mailing equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk. 1.5 GIRFEC – Protecting the interests of children Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) is an approach to improving outcomes for children and young people, recognising that all children must receive the right help at the right time. Children and young people have the right to be protected from harm and abuse Depending on the circumstances of the child there are three key areas in which housing services have a role in protecting children from risk and harm. The three areas are outlined below. Staff should refer to relevant child protection guidance for further details: • Child Protection • Health and Wellbeing • Corporate parenting 126
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Child Protection - Child protection is about protecting a child from abuse and harm, which includes neglect. If an Officer identifies or is aware of information that a child is at risk of harm, neglect children can experience neglect in a range of circumstances and at all ages) or abuse a child protection notification of concern referral must be made. Health and Wellbeing – Where a child is not at risk of harm or abuse, but their health or development is or could be affected due to a child or family circumstances e.g., homelessness, the victim of anti-social behavior or at risk of eviction then the GIRFEC procedure must be followed. Corporate Parenting – Children and young people who have been looked after often do not have the support and help that other young people can expect from their families and as corporate parents, it is our responsibility to support safe transitions of vulnerable young people towards adult life and services. Therefore, whenever an officer is dealing with a young person who has previously been looked after and accommodated, we will: - • Take extra care to make sure that the young person understands what we are saying to them or what we are asking them to do. • Provide extra support and assistance as required to help the young person address their situation. • Recognise risks and vulnerabilities and refer to other services where needed. • Engage with Social Work or any other supports already in place to promote the young person’s wellbeing. • Support young people with managing the transition to adult life and services by providing individualised support relevant to their need. 1.6 Protecting the interests of vulnerable adults In terms of adult support and protection, the Council is committed to ensuring that adults at risk of harm are supported and protected. Adults at risk of harm may include adults aged 16 years and above who are unable to safeguard their own wellbeing, property, rights or other interests, are at risk of harm and are affected by disability, mental disorder, illness or physical or mental infirmity. All council employees have a duty to act on any suspicions or concerns they may identify when carrying out their daily duties. The Adult Support and Protection procedure has been developed to support Housing Officers and must be followed. 1.7 Legislative and Regulatory Framework The Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 and Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 are the primary legislations that govern domestic abuse. The 2018 Act makes it an offence for someone to behave in an abusive manner towards a partner or ex-partner and recognises domestic abuse as a crime. It also gave Police Scotland enforcement powers in relation to psychological abuse and coercive control, furthermore it recognises children as victim/survivors of domestic abuse and recognises domestic abuse as a crime. The 2025 has introduced additional powers for local authorities in relation to action that may be taken against perpetrators of domestic abuse. 127
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The Scottish Government and COSLA ‘Equally Safe’ Strategy sets out the framework for the prevention and eradication of violence against women and girls, detailing four core outcomes across society. These are outlined below: • Embracing Equality: Society rejects violence against women, and embraces mutual respect. • Equal Citizens: Women and girls thrive equally in social, cultural, economic, and political life. • Early Intervention: Preventative support systems stop violence before it happens and maximize victim safety. • Holding Perpetrators to Account: Men stop all forms of violence, and offenders are held robustly accountable 1.8 Proactive Response South Lanarkshire Council and our partner agencies will provide a proactive housing response to preventing and addressing domestic abuse by: • Raising awareness of the range of services available should families be at risk of domestic abuse • Being sensitive and supportive towards any household experiencing domestic abuse • Working in partnership with other agencies to help victims/survivors of domestic abuse to access information, advice, and support in respect Housing Options and the choices available to them • Hold perpetrators of domestic abuse to account where possible • Promote equality and diversity and ensure support is available to anyone who needs it • Ensure that Housing’s response is appropriate to the needs of the individual and in line with best practice 2. Domestic abuse in South Lanarkshire 2.1 A Safe Place to call Home South Lanarkshire Council recognises that having a safe place to call home is crucial in order for families to thrive within our communities. Families should not have to live in fear of violence, abuse or harassment due any form of violence against women and girls, equally men experiencing abuse should also expect to have a safe place to call home. This Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy sits within, and supports delivery of, the council’s wider corporate policy position on Gender-Based violence. As detailed in Equally Safe, violence against women and girls is defined as a form of Gender-Based violence (GBV). GBV is defined as “any form of violence used to establish, enforce or perpetuate gender inequalities and keep in place gendered orders”. While the terms Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and GBV are sometimes used interchangeably, VAWG is a subset of GBV specifically targeting women and girls due to their unequal status in society. Equally Safe's definition of VAWG includes the actual and threat of: • physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, economic and financial abuse occurring in the family, within the general community, and in institutions in both physical and digital spaces and places 128
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• domestic abuse/coercive controlling behaviours, stalking, rape, incest, sexual harassment, bullying, and intimidation • commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), including prostitution, lap dancing, stripping, pornography o human trafficking, including for the purposes of domestic servitude, sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation, which may include gangs and organised criminal networks • child abuse occurring within family settings, including domestic abuse, and sexual abuse by male family members including siblings • child sexual abuse and exploitation including the production and sharing of indecent images of children • honour-based abuse, including forced marriages, female genital mutilation (FGM), dowry abuse and ‘honour based’ coercive control and killings. Boys also experience domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation and the Equally Safe strategy therefore covers all children and young people. South Lanarkshire Council recognises that women and girls are disproportionately affected by violence and abuse, while also acknowledging that men can be subject to violence and abuse as well and as such are entitled to the same level of sensitivity and support. 2.2 Recognising Domestic Abuse It is important that anyone experiencing domestic abuse is able to feel confident and comfortable in disclosing this information to our housing staff. It is equally important that any staff member who receives a disclosure has the confidence and understanding of how best to respond. Recognising that domestic abuse may be a factor when no disclosure is made can be challenging, however throughout assessments, consideration should be given to: • Relationships • Nature of abuse • Perpetrators patterns of behaviour • Children • Support networks • Current living arrangements • Financial situation • Level of risk • Repeat offending 2.3 Impact of Domestic Abuse Given the enduring and relentless nature of domestic abuse, those affected by domestic abuse may have to move multiple times to find a safe place to call home. Repeated house moves can have a significant impact for victims/survivors and their families. This can include feelings of isolation and displacement, loss of relationships with friends and neighbours, educational impact, financial pressures and loss of sentimental items and belongings as well as having to start new in an unknown area. The multi-faceted impact can therefore be physical, emotional, financial and psychological. Moving can be extremely stressful and if this must happen multiple times it can have a severe impact on someone’s ability to feel safe. Providing good housing options advice at the earliest opportunity along with support where required are essential to ensuring victims/survivors feel 129
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heard, safe and supported. The impact of domestic abuse often continues after someone leaves an abusive relationship with many victims/survivors continuing to experience risk and danger after leaving the abusive relationship. Children are recognised as victims/survivors in their own right and may experience significant emotional, developmental, educational and health impacts because of domestic abuse. 3. Partnership Working 3.1 Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) Working with our Partners is extremely important when considering the complexity of domestic abuse. South Lanarkshire Council are committed to MARAC (multi-agency risk assessment conferencing) as a resource to support women who are at highest risk of domestic abuse. MARAC discusses cases of domestic abuse that have been identified as being at high risk of significant harm or homicide. The nationally recognised Safelives Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Honour-based abuse (DASH) risk identification checklist, is the primary mechanism for identifying and assessing the level of current risk posed to victims /survivors and their children. If a victim/survivor answers positively to 14 or more indicators from the checklist a referral to MARAC should be made. Any agency can make a referral to MARAC on professional judgement where the checklist has not been completed or has scored lower than the threshold, but the practitioner feels there is significant risk to the victim/survivor/survivor and/or their children. Consent for referring to MARAC is not required, although best practice is that practitioners should discuss this with the person being referred. When a referral to MARAC is made the case will automatically be allocated an Independent domestic abuse advocate (IDAA) who will contact the victim/survivor to offer further supports, represent their views at the MARAC meeting and keep them updated on any actions arising from the meeting. The person will be offered an advocacy worker buy may choose not to accept. MARAC includes representatives from various agencies such as: • Police • Health • Child Protection • Housing • IDAAs • Probation Services • Social Work Criminal Justice Service • Mental Health Specialists • Substance Misuse Specialists • Specialist domestic abuse support service, Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire (WASLER) • NHSL Gender Based Violence Services • ASSIST These representatives collaborate to discuss high risk domestic abuse cases and co-ordinate support for victims/survivors. 130
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3.2 Joint Working South Lanarkshire’s Violence Against Women & Girls Strategic Partnership (VAWGP) is the multi-agency mechanism for driving forward Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy at a local level. The VAWGP has strategic oversight of all work relating to violence against women and girls across South Lanarkshire and has ownership of ‘Equally Safe South Lanarkshire’ strategy. The Strategy sets out the local priorities for the prevention and eradication of all forms of VAWG while the Partnership brings together key partners to raise awareness, upskill our workforce, lead on strategic direction, promote, monitor and evaluate best practice, while also improving partnership working and communication between agencies. Furthermore, Housing Services have a strong relationship with Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire (WASLER) and work closely with them to ensure women are supported through their refuge and outreach services when they are experiencing domestic abuse. Housing Services recognise that specialist domestic abuse support and housing support fulfil different but complementary roles. Victims/survivors will be encouraged to access specialist support services, alongside housing assistance. All women experiencing domestic abuse will be offered information about and referral to specialist support services such as Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and East Renfrewshire (WASLER), regardless of the level of risk identified where they consent to do so. Housing Services are committed to ensuring that all households impacted by domestic abuse are treated sensitively and supported in a non-judgemental way. We recognise that men, non- binary people and individuals of all genders may experience abuse. This policy applies equally to all victims and survivors. We are committed to ensuring that anyone affected by domestic abuse receives an appropriate, trauma-informed response and is supported to access relevant specialist services through advice, signposting and referrals tailored to their needs. All reports/disclosures of domestic abuse will be taken seriously, and we will provide advice, assistance and support to those affected Where possible, housing services, in partnership with the relevant bodies and agencies will endeavour to take action against perpetrators of domestic abuse where this is in the best interest of the victim /survivor and their children. This includes where appropriate lawful and proportionate action to hold perpetrators accountable and improve safety for victims/survivors and children. Effective partnership working is essential to delivery of this Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy. MARAC and VAWGP arrangements, together with our close working relationships with the third sector, assist all partners in understanding their roles and responsibilities and ensure the policy remains clearly linked to the council’s wider Gender-Based violence framework. 131
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4. Trauma Informed Approach 4.1 What is a trauma informed approach A trauma informed approach is a way of understanding and responding to the impact of trauma on an individual. This includes their behaviour and relationships and focuses on avoiding re- traumatising the individual with a view to developing resilience and healing. Trauma and abuse from domestic abuse can be chronic and long lasting. There are likely to be repeated incidents which threaten the individual both emotionally and physically. They may anticipate that this will happen and be unable to do anything about it. At times of extreme stress the body is unlikely to be able to reflect, think or make decisions and is more likely to revert to flight, fright or freeze responses. Given the nature of domestic abuse, trauma can occur on multiple occasions, often there are repeated incidents which threaten the emotional and physical safety of victim/survivor survivors. At times of extreme stress or fear the body can find it difficult to be able to reflect, recall information accurately, and/or make clear and safe decisions for the future. It is crucial that when supporting victim/survivor/survivors of domestic abuse that we go at their pace and ensure that we encourage empowerment and freedom of choice. Housing Services will seek to minimise the need for victims/survivors to repeatedly disclose or retell their experiences wherever lawful and appropriate information sharing can achieve this. 4.2 How do we achieve this approach Housing Services achieve this approach by ensuring that we consider: • Safety of women and girls • Safety of anyone impacted by domestic abuse • Communication and Trust with all parties • Choice and support for victims/survivors of domestic abuse • Collaboration between partners and stakeholders • Empowerment for women and girls • The need for cultural sensitivity across services Housing Services are committed to developing and implementing trauma-informed approaches to service delivery under this Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy. A traumatised individual may find it challenging to engage with our service and to convey clearly and calmly their situation and needs. Our first point of contact may be the first time they have told someone about what is happening to them. They will be treated with compassion, dignity and respect. It is important that they are reassured they are not to blame and that they feel believed. Privacy and confidentiality are extremely important. 4.3 What will we do – If we identify someone is a victim/survivor of domestic abuse we will: • Listen to their concerns/fears • Risk Assess • Safety Plan • Establish current living arrangements • Explore Housing Options 132
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• Consider the wishes of the victim/survivor/survivor and their children • Provide somewhere safe to stay if required • Offer specialist support and make necessary referrals to WASLER or any other specialist support service as needed • Where appropriate complete a Housing Pathway Plan • Consider options to hold the perpetrator of the abuse to account for their behaviour 5. Risk Assessment 5.1 Risk Assessment and Safety Planning In order to comprehensively risk assess the situation we will listen to the victim/survivor and understand their perspective taking account of their level of fear and anxiety around repercussions from the perpetrator, further incidents and what might happen if the perpetrator finds out they have asked for help. It can often be challenging for victims/survivors to disclose how they feel and to talk about what is happening to them. They might not feel safe to talk openly and fear that they are putting themselves and their children at further risk. Victims/survivors may not want to disclose this information or want to talk in detail about their abuse. It should be noted that this does not mean they are not at high risk, professional judgement of those working with the victim/survivor is paramount. A practical approach to helping victims/survivors is to carry out a Safety Planning exercise. This means working alongside the victim/survivor and using their knowledge of the perpetrator’s patterns of behaviour to understand what will and will not work to keep them and their children safe. It is important to acknowledge to the individual that you are concerned about what is happening to them and to ensure the individual knows you want to work with them to keep them safe. We will safety plan across all stages of working with an individual. This includes: • When they live with the perpetrator • When they are considering ending the relationship • After they have ended the relationship 6. Prevention 6.1 Advice and Assistance We will focus on providing good clear housing advice at an early stage to help victims/survivors plan and stay safe. Ensuring victims/survivors have a range of options and that they understand these can be very empowering. Sometimes victims/survivors need time to consider their options and do not require immediate housing solutions or support. We will support victims/survivors and provide advice and assistance that meets their needs, at a pace that is comfortable for them We will work with victims/survivors to maintain their privacy and will ensure that our systems and practice focus upon ensuring that when a victim/survivor chose to move, their new address is not disclosed to the perpetrator or anyone who may pass this information on to them. We will always strive to ensure that victims/survivors are involved and in control of 133
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decisions being made about their lives. When children are involved, victims/survivors need to consider disruption to education and support networks, and the impact moves will have on their children, we recognise that this can be difficult for parents and we will endeavour to offer support and advice around this There can be challenges when a victim/survivor chooses to move out of the family home and the perpetrator remains there. Staff will not place any judgement on victims/survivors and help and support them as much as possible by providing clear information and advice to assist them to make informed decisions. Equally we recognise that victims/survivors may prefer to remain in their tenancy to limit disruption to children and ensure consistency as the family heal from trauma. When possible, we will endeavour to facilitate these negotiations by providing alternative housing options to the perpetrator, allowing the family to remain in their home. When providing advice and assistance it is important to: • Ask and listen • Treat people with respect and dignity • Ask and understand perpetrator patterns of behaviour • Provide a suitable, quiet, safe and confidential space • Ask non-threatening and open questions • Recognise that it is a stressful and difficult situation • Ensure there are no access barriers • Ensure emotional support is available if required • Provide practical solutions such as safety measures at the property 6.2 Early Intervention Early intervention for cases where domestic abuse is a factor is important. We will therefore adopt the following approach: • Awareness of all housing staff in relation to households experiencing domestic abuse and ensuring a confident and competent, empathetic approach to assistance is made • Staff recognise domestic abuse in all forms is unacceptable • There is awareness of domestic abuse, the Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy and its link to the council’s wider Gender-Based violence policy framework, ensuring everyone has access to information, advice and assistance • Prevention work should be targeted and appropriate to meet victim/survivors needs 7. Housing Options and Housing Pathway Plan 7.1 Housing Options There are a range of potential housing options available to victim/survivors, these include: • Pro-active safeguarding to enable families to remain in the family home • Social housing • Private lets • Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme 134
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• Mid-Market Rent • Home Ownership • Refuge accommodation for women and their families Each option will be discussed in detail to understand whether it is a realistic option in terms of affordability and accessibility. Not all options will be suitable for all individuals and finding the best solution is vital to future tenancy sustainability and finding a safe place to call home. We will support victim/survivors of domestic abuse and ensure they are at the centre of our approach to housing options. Victims/survivors of domestic violence are not expected to leave their home unless this is their choice. Where it is safe and appropriate to do so and households choose to remain in their own home they will be supported to sustain their housing situation. 7.2 Engagement When someone decides to end an abusive relationship it can be extremely difficult and we recognise, from evidence that risk can significantly increase at this time. It is the victim/survivor’s choice when and if they wish to leave, often significant planning is required to enable the victim/survivor to leave safely. We would always encourage a planned exit from the relationship where it is safe to do so as, we recognise this as the safest option for the victim/survivor. Providing information and advice can be empowering and help victims/survivors plan for their future. It is important that our staff know that their role is to help reduce risk and to support victims/survivors and their children. Where there are public safety concerns then staff should discuss with their manager and take appropriate action. Where a victim/survivor makes multiple attempts at contact or has repeated housing options interactions it is likely that they are at more risk. Decision making can be difficult for those experiencing domestic abuse and it often takes a number of attempts before they feel confident enough to engage with staff to explore housing options and to discuss housing pathway planning. It is crucial therefore that staff recognise this and ensure that no judgement is made and each interaction increases confidence and makes it more likely that they will return for support and be supported to move forward with the most appropriate support and housing option to meet their needs. Housing Services recognise that some women may face additional barriers in accessing safety and support, including women with insecure immigration status, women with no recourse to public funds, disabled women, older women and women from minority ethnic communities. Appropriate support and specialist referrals will be offered in these situations. 7.3 Housing Pathway Plan Current legislation confirms that a person should be treated as homeless, even if they have accommodation, if it is not reasonable for them to continue to stay in it. We help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by providing advice and information to prevent homelessness and by offering temporary accommodation. Where someone finds themselves homeless through no fault of their own and have recourse to public funds, they are entitled to settled accommodation in social rented housing. Therefore, victims/survivors of domestic abuse are entitled to make a homeless application and receive settled accommodation within the social rented sector. 135
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We recognise that this journey may not be the most appropriate one for households who are victims/survivors of domestic abuse. Victims/survivors should have a choice as to the route they wish to take when considering their housing options and although homelessness could be their choice it is important to outline within this document that there are a range of housing options to assist victims/survivors of domestic abuse into safe housing solutions. Refuge accommodation referrals can be made to specialist services to provide temporary accommodation for victim/ survivors of domestic abuse to enable them to remain safe and supported. In order to sensitively and efficiently identify settled housing solutions we are committed to providing a Housing Pathway Plan for victims/survivors of domestic abuse. This dedicated Protocol approach provides households with an opportunity to have their needs met as efficiently as possible through prioritising their housing application. This approach enables households to determine their areas of choice and work closely with the dedicated Domestic Abuse Housing Officer to create a sustainable and achievable Housing Pathway Plan that will meet their needs. The approach is flexible and enables a tailored offer of housing to meet the needs of the applicant. 8. Perpetrator Accountability Part 2 of the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 introduces new powers for social landlords in relation to domestic abuse cases. There are evidential and court requirements associated with using the new powers and Housing are committed to considering use of the new ground for possession to take legal action to remove perpetrators from the family home to enable victims/survivors to remain in the family home should this be their preferred choice. Implementation of the new powers requires a partnership approach, in particular with Police Scotland, Social Work, Health Services and third sector organisations, including WASLER. This legislation provides an opportunity to improve tenancy sustainment for victims/survivors and reduce homeless presentations linked to domestic abuse. 9. Staff Training and Development 9.1 There is a commitment within this Policy to ensure all Housing Staff have access to appropriate advice, assistance, support and training to help them deliver a trauma led approach to housing solutions for households impacted by domestic abuse. 9.2 Training will be delivered through in-house and external specialist training, ensuring staff are aware of wider resources and specialist services as well as the dedicated Domestic Abuse Housing Officer role. 10. Monitoring and Review 10.1 This Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy will be reviewed in accordance with the Resource strategy and policy review schedule. The council will continue to monitor the policy to ensure that it achieves all equalities objectives on a three-year review cycle. 136
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10.2 The Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy will be reviewed in partnership with our partners and stakeholders, including households with lived experience, the Tenant Participation and Co-ordination Group, VAWGP and the Housing Domestic Abuse Group. 10.3 Successful delivery of the policy will be measured against improvements in relation to: • Homelessness prevention • Repeat homelessness • Housing Pathway Plans • Households remaining in their own home • Housing actions at MARAC • Referrals for specialist services to support women and families impacted by domestic abuse 137
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Update on Housing Investment Programme 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of this report is to:- ♦ provide the first annual update on the Council’s Housing Investment Programme, outlining key achievements from the programme during 2025/2026 and Quarter 1 of 2026/2027 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the 2025/2026 Housing Investment Programme outcomes, be noted; (2) that the approved 2026/2027 Housing Investment Programme and progress made within Quarter 1, be noted; and (3) that the proposal to report future annual updates on the Housing Investment Programme to Housing and Technical Resource Committee, be noted. 3. Background 3.1. The Housing Investment Programme forms a key component of the Housing Capital Programme and provides the framework through which planned investment is delivered. 3.2. The programme supports delivery of the Council's strategic housing priorities through investment in, but not limited to:- ♦ housing quality and condition ♦ energy efficiency improvements ♦ legislative compliance and tenant safety ♦ damp, water ingress and building fabric improvements ♦ sheltered and amenity housing ♦ environmental improvements ♦ mixed tenure properties ♦ the long-term sustainability of Council housing assets 3.4. The Housing and Technical Resources Committee, at its meeting on 22 January 2025, approved £35.633 million of Housing Investment Programme expenditure within the overall Housing Capital Programme for 2025/2026. 16 139
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3.5. At its meeting on 10 December 2025, South Lanarkshire Council approved a Notice of Motion which requested an annual report on the Council’s Housing Investment Programme be brought to Housing and Technical Resources Committee for information. 3.6. The Executive Committee, at its meeting on 24 June 2026, noted final outturn expenditure of £85.782 million against a revised Housing Capital Programme of £87.740 million and approved the carry forward of £1.958 million into 2026/2027, including £1.106 million relating to Housing Investment Programme activity. 3.7. The Housing and Technical Resources Committee subsequently approved a Housing Investment Programme allocation of £30.851 million for 2026/2027. 4. Housing investment Programme 2025/2026 - Overview 4.1. During 2025/2026, the Housing Investment Programme continued to deliver significant investment across South Lanarkshire, supporting improved housing quality, energy efficiency, safety and asset sustainability. 4.2. Notwithstanding ongoing challenges within the construction sector, including inflationary cost pressures, contractor capacity constraints, reduced owner grant support and access issues within occupied properties, substantial progress was achieved across all major investment programmes. 4.3. Key outputs delivered during 2025/2026 included:- Programme Key Outputs New kitchen installations 1,022 new kitchens installed New heating systems 231 heating system replacements completed Energy Efficiency improvements 438 homes improved through energy efficiency measures External Fabric 12 major projects completed Environmental Works 6 projects completed Sheltered Housing 4 projects completed New Windows and Doors 429 installations completed Compliance All planned statutory compliance activities completed 4.4. Investment delivered through the programme contributes directly towards:- ♦ maintaining compliance with the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS); ♦ progressing Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH) requirements ♦ improving tenant safety ♦ reducing future maintenance demand ♦ improving neighbourhood appearance and sustainability ♦ supporting climate change objectives ♦ improving the quality of tenants' homes 140
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5. 2025/2026 Programme Delivery Kitchen Programme 5.1. The kitchen replacement programme remains one of the Council's largest planned improvement programmes and continues to make a significant contribution towards maintaining housing quality standards and improving customer satisfaction. 5.2. During 2025/2026, kitchen replacement works were completed in 1,022 properties. The delivery programme was affected by contractor mobilisation arrangements associated with a new kitchen supplier, recruitment pressures across the construction sector and access difficulties within a proportion of occupied properties. External Fabric Programme 5.3. The External Fabric Programme supports the ‘Fabric First’ approach through investment in roofing, external fabric repairs, insulation measures and structural improvement works. During 2025/2026:- ♦ 12 projects were completed ♦ 6 projects progressed on site and continued into 2026/2027 ♦ additional projects were developed for future delivery Investment has continued to focus on priority condition, safety and energy efficiency requirements. Central Heating Programme 5.4. The programme delivered 231 heating replacements during the year and progressed strategic energy infrastructure projects within East Kilbride. Investment in heating systems continues to improve reliability, energy performance and tenant comfort while supporting wider decarbonisation objectives. Environmental Programme 5.5. Environmental investment continued across a range of locations including road resurfacing, close improvements, lock-up works, door-entry systems and neighbourhood enhancement projects. 6 projects were completed during the reporting period, improving the condition, appearance and functionality of council assets. Energy Efficiency Programme 5.6. The Energy Efficiency Programme remains a key investment priority, supporting reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions and improved thermal performance. During 2025/2026:- ♦ 438 properties benefited from energy efficiency improvements ♦ 346 Council properties received 614 individual energy measures ♦ 92 privately owned properties received 114 energy efficiency measures through mixed tenure projects 141
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Sheltered Housing and Specialist Accommodation 5.7. Investment continued across sheltered housing complexes through internal improvements, lift modernisation, environmental works and warden call system upgrades. 4 projects were completed during the year, supporting the quality and sustainability of accommodation for sheltered housing tenants. Servicing Upgrades 5.8. All servicing upgrade projects programmed for 2025/2026 were completed successfully, contributing to improved energy performance, accessibility and operational resilience. Windows and Doors Programme 5.9. The programme delivered 429 installations during the reporting period, including fire safety improvements within multi-storey housing. These works contribute to improved safety, energy performance and condition of the buildings. 6. Housing Investment Programme 2026/2027 - Overview 6.1. The 2026/2027 Housing Investment Programme continues the Council's commitment to investing in existing housing assets and supporting the delivery of high-quality, energy-efficient and sustainable homes. 6.2. The approved 2026/2027 programme provides investment of £30.851 million and reflects the priorities identified within the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan. It supports the Council's wider objectives of maintaining compliance with national housing standards, improving property condition, reducing future maintenance liabilities and supporting long term asset sustainability. 6.3. The programme continues to focus investment on:- ♦ improving housing quality through replacement kitchens, heating systems, windows and doors ♦ maintaining and improving building fabric through roofing, structural repairs and external wall insulation ♦ increasing energy efficiency and supporting climate change objective ♦ improving the condition and sustainability of sheltered housing accommodation ♦ delivering environmental improvements that enhance neighbourhoods and the wider tenant experience ♦ ensuring ongoing compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements 6.4. The programme also supports the Council's continuing response to the priorities identified by Council in December 2025, including housing quality, energy efficiency, investment in existing homes, damp and mould prevention and the long-term sustainability of housing assets. The key priorities for investment are set out below. 6.5. Overall progress during Quarter 1 demonstrates a positive start to the 2026/2027 programme, with investment activity underway across all major programme areas. 142
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7. 2026/2027 Quarter 1 Programme Delivery Kitchen Programme 7.1. During 2026/2027, 2,235 properties have been identified for inclusion within the programme, with provision made for expected access and programme attrition rates. 7.2. Investment is targeted across communities including Rigside, Glespin, Forth, Carluke, East Kilbride, Hamilton, Larkhall and Blantyre, ensuring that increasing numbers of tenants will benefit from modern, fit-for-purpose kitchens which contribute to overall housing quality and customer satisfaction. Progress during Quarter 1 was positive, with 298 kitchens completed. Building Fabric and Asset Sustainability 7.3. The External Fabric Programme continues to support the Council's Fabric First approach by prioritizing investment in the building envelope before considering further energy efficiency interventions. 7.4. A wide range of projects are progressing during 2026/2027, including roofing replacement, external fabric repairs, external wall insulation, window and door replacement works and Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) remediation projects. 7.5. Investment is being delivered across East Kilbride, Hamilton, Rutherglen, Cambuslang, Larkhall and Clydesdale and includes major projects such as:- ♦ RAAC remediation works at Christie Place and Mansion Street, Cambuslang ♦ external wall insulation and roofing improvements at Westburn Timbers ♦ external fabric and energy efficiency improvements in East Kilbride ♦ reroofing and render works at Rigside, Coulter and Strutherhill ♦ investment in sheltered housing complexes including Stonefield Park Gardens 7.6. Taken together, these projects will improve property condition, protect housing assets, reduce future maintenance requirements and improve energy performance. Energy Efficiency and Climate Change 7.7. Energy efficiency improvement projects progressing during 2026/2027 include:- ♦ external wall insulation works at Hawkwood Terrace and Skylaw Terrace, Forth ♦ external wall insulation, window and door replacement works within the Cruden Rural properties at Wiston ♦ loft and cavity wall insulation programmes across the housing stock ♦ continued review of future low-carbon heating opportunities within the Council's multi-storey stock 7.8. During Quarter 1, 76 insulation surveys were completed, and improvement works commenced in 56 properties, with 49 properties already receiving completed energy efficiency measures. 143
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Heating and Decarbonisation 7.9. Alongside mainstream heating replacements across a range of areas, significant progress has been achieved within East Kilbride through the metering and billing project serving Clyde, Calder and White Cart multi-storey buildings. 7.10. At the end of Quarter 1, 284 of the 313 properties (90%) within the project had been completed with new metering arrangements in place. This aims to improve customer satisfaction and offer tenants and residents more control over their heating and managing their bills. 7.11. The future approach to the Calderwood Ground Source Heat Pump project remains under review as part of the Council's wider Fabric First investment strategy and long- term decarbonisation objectives. Environmental Improvements 7.12. Works programmed for 2026/2027 include:- ♦ close refurbishment projects ♦ lock-up refurbishment and demolition programmes ♦ door-entry system upgrades ♦ road resurfacing and associated infrastructure improvements 7.13. Progress during Quarter 1 included completion of a close refurbishment project in Hamilton and successful owner consultation exercises in 7 blocks where residents have voted in favour of proposed door-entry improvements. Sheltered Housing and Specialist Accommodation 7.14. Investment in sheltered housing remains an important element of the programme. Works during 2026/2027 include:- ♦ warden call system upgrades ♦ internal improvements to communal areas ♦ pipework replacement projects ♦ infrastructure improvements within sheltered housing complexes 7.15. These works will help ensure that sheltered housing continues to meet the needs and expectations of older residents and supports independent living. Building Safety and Compliance 7.16. Alongside physical improvement works; the programme continues to maintain a strong focus on tenant safety and legislative compliance. 7.17. Investment during 2026/2027 includes ongoing programmes of statutory inspection, testing and audit activity, together with the development of a fire door inspection regime across the housing stock. These activities provide assurance that housing assets continue to meet statutory standards and that the safety of tenants remains a key priority. 144
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8. Next steps 8.1. Delivery of the ongoing Housing Investment Programme continues to be monitored closely to ensure that resources are targeted effectively, programme objectives are achieved and the benefits of the investment are realised for tenants and communities throughout South Lanarkshire. The Council decision of 10 December 2025 requested the submission of an annual report on the Housing Investment Programme. 8.2. In line with the Notice of Motion, approved by South Lanarkshire Council on 10 December 2025, an annual update report will continue to be reported to Housing and Technical Resources Committee to provide assurance on programme delivery, investment outcomes and progress against the Council's housing quality, sustainability and asset management objectives. 9. Employee Implications 9.1. There are no direct employee implications associated with this report. 10. Financial Implications 10.1. Financial implications associated with the Housing Investment Programme are routinely reported to Executive Committee and Housing and Technical Resources Committee, as part of the wider Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme. 11. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 11.1. The impact which capital investment will have upon climate change and sustainability is appropriately considered through the Resource’s approach to project design, procurement, project management and delivery. Works will be progressed in such a way to support a positive impact on the environment. Details will be captured within the Integrated Impact Assessment (section 11), with appropriate mitigation actions noted where any potential negative impact is identified. 12. Risk and Other Implications 12.1. There are no direct employee implications associated with this report 13. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 13.1. An Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) has been completed for the Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2026/2027 (Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 21 January 2026). 13.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 13.3. Consultation in relation to the Housing Revenue Capital Programme is conducted annually with tenants as part of the annual rent setting consultation. Priorities, compliance requirements and investment activity are also routinely discussed with tenant representatives through the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group, which informs the Housing Investment Programme. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 7 August 2026 145
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Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous References Executive Committee, 24 June 2026, Capital Budget Monitoring Final Outturn – 2025/2026 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 21 January 2026, Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2025/2026 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 22 January 2025, Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2025/2026 South Lanarkshire Council, 10 December 2025 List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services Ext: 4073 (Tel: 01698 454073) email: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 146
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Response to Council Motion – Investing in Housing and Investigating Rent Controls 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- outline key aspects of the Motion approved at South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) on 10 December 2025, titled ‘Investing in Housing and Investigating Rent Controls’ provide a summary of the response to each aspect on the Motion from Housing and Technical Resources 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the overview of key aspects of the ‘Investing in Housing and Investigating Rent Controls’ motion, be noted; and (2) that the ongoing activity in response to the motion be noted. 3. Background 3.1. A Notice of Motion was made within the meeting of South Lanarkshire Council on the 10 December 2025, seeking an update from services within Housing and Technical Resources in relation to the investment in housing stock and establishing rent controls to support constituents. 3.2. The motion covered the following areas:- ♦ domestic retrofit needs and estimated costs ♦ outstanding repair costs and disability adaptations ♦ implications associated with the implementation of Awaab’s law ♦ Housing Investment Programme ♦ investment in mixed-tenure properties ♦ implementation of private sector rent controls 3.3. The Motion was approved by South Lanarkshire Council, with a response and update on progress to each aspect sought through Housing and Technical Resources Committee by 3 June 2026. Responses to particular aspects within the motion were presented to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 18 March 2026 and 3 June 2026, with other aspects delayed whilst data was collated or actions undertaken prior to providing an update. 17 147
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4. Summary of response to Motion 4.1. Responses to different aspects to the Motion have been provided through stand- alone reports and within existing reports at Housing and Technical Resources Committee throughout the year to date. 4.2. Key aspects of the motion and response from the Resource to each have been set out below:- 4.2.1. Domestic Retrofit Needs and Estimated Costs to Meet Any Gaps in Statutory Energy Efficiency Requirements. Work remains ongoing in relation to assessing domestic retrofit needs of the Council’s housing stock. In 2025/2026 Housing Services appointed environmental consultants Changeworks to undertake a detailed analysis and assessment of the Council’s housing stock to help understand how current and anticipated energy efficiency or decarbonisation requirements could be achieved. This was completed in February 2026 and has already helped inform wider capital investment priorities and projects. To enhance this understanding further, Housing Services have now appointed specialist consultants Arneill Johnson to undertake a detailed asset management assessment of the housing stock, which will build on the previous analysis. This asset-based approach will enable Housing Services to collectively consider the need and demand across localities, whilst considering the property condition and costs to achieve required quality, energy efficiency and decarbonisation requirements. The outcome of this is anticipated in spring 2027. Whilst progressing with this work, Housing Services are, however, continuing to await the new Social Housing Net Zero Standard to be set by the Scottish Government. In the absence of the new standard, the Council have, however, continued to invest in a range of environmental improvements and ‘fabric first’ projects across the housing stock, aiming to reduce the level of energy required by tenants to heat their homes. Reports on the Council’s current and previous performance in relation to energy efficiency and decarbonisation continue to be provided through existing reporting structures. This includes through the Resource Plan, Local Housing Strategy and Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy. 4.2.2. Scale and Estimated Cost of Outstanding Repairs and Disability Adaptations to Meet Statutory Requirements The Resource’s new One Housing system is due to go live for logging all repairs from the 31 August 2026. This will allow all repairs to start being input, followed by information to confirm which works are in progress and which are complete. On completion of this exercise, regular reports will be available to confirm all work in progress, in line with set priority and target dates. The Council carries out disabled adaptations to housing stock following a report from Occupational Therapist on the specific needs of the individual and adaptations required within their property. Once this report is received, we have a target of 28 days to complete all works, with current average for completed works being just 14.4 days. There is no outstanding disability adaptations with all adaptions being progressed through normal protocols and timescale. 148
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4.2.3. Implications, Actions and Costs to Deliver on Awaab’s Law and the Scottish Housing Quality Standard Indicator On 3 June 2026, Housing and Technical Resources Committee approved the report updating members on new requirements stemming from the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. Within this report, it was noted that the Act provides powers to introduce new regulations to ensure landlords effectively respond to reports of damp and mould within their tenanted properties, in line with Awaab’s law introduced in England last year. This legislation prescribes requirements in relation to reported instances in terms of inspecting and repairing properties within set timescales and the provision of compensation. This aspect of the Act has been followed with an update to the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, which sets out requirements for landlords in relation to reported cases of damp and mould in more detail. The implementation date for these new requirements is 6 October 2026, however, guidance to support implementation is still to be provided. The Resource has been preparing for these new requirements being introduced, with Property Services realigning services to offer a dedicated response to damp and mould enquiries or complaints, alongside additional training for officers responding to these. New sensor technology and record management systems are also being procured, seeking to support the Resource in tackling persistent or repeat issues. Property Services are aiming for these preparations to be in place prior to 6 October 2026 to test and adject in advance of legislation coming into effect. Information for tenants on the new requirements, as well as how they can resolve minor issues within their homes has also been promoted. In addition, the Resource continues to engage with Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), Association of Local Authority Chief Housing Officers (ALACHO) and the Scottish Government on the proposed implementation of Awaab’s Law in Scotland. 4.2.4. Annual Report on the Housing Investment Programme As part of routine financial reporting on capital and revenue budgets, the Housing Investment Programme is presented for endorsement by Housing and Technical Resources Committee annually, prior to being presented for approval to Executive Committee annually. On 21 January 2026, Housing and Technical Resources Committee endorsed the Housing Capital Programme for 2026/2027. The Capital Estimate included within the report included the element of £30.851 million for the Housing Investment Plan as part of the overall Capital programme estimate of £90.434 million. The report outlined the proposed investment based on a three-year rolling program, reviewed annually and prioritised to maximise delivery. A progress update in relation to the 2026/2027 plan, as well as a breakdown of achievements within the 2025/2026 plan has been provided to this Committee on 2 September 2026. 149
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4.2.5. Investing in Mixed Tenure Properties The current South Lanarkshire Council Scheme of Assistance, approved by Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 14 May 2025 sets out the Council’s approach to supporting private homeowners and tenants of private landlords in completing improvement work to their property. Feedback received through consultation, along with enquiries from homeowners and elected members, indicates that affordability is the primary concern in participation in the scheme. Many owners or private landlords advise the proposed costs are beyond their means. The Council continues to review opportunities to enhance the options available to homeowners and landlords to improve participation in the Scheme of Assistance and will provide an update on this to the Housing and Technical Resource Committee on 11 November 2026. 4.2.6. Set out the Process and Timescale to Decide if South Lanarkshire Council Wishes to Implement Private Sector Rent Controls, Including an Assessment of the Local Rent Market. On 3 June 2026, Housing and Technical Resources Committee approved the report updating members on new requirements stemming from the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. Within this report it was noted that assessing the requirement for rent control areas would be a new statutory requirement for the Council which places a significant new burden on local authorities, requiring detailed rent data collection from landlords and tenants. This shifts the Council’s position, from have a regulatory or licensing capacity within the private rented sector, to being responsible for monitoring rent trends at a local level. To ensure compliance with the Act, Housing and Technical Resources are sourcing appropriate data sets to conduct this assessment and submit the formal reports to the Scottish Government within the required timescale of May 2027. The Resource does, however, await guidance from the Scottish Government on this area and will ensure alignment with any further requirements stemming from this once published. 4.2.7. Bring Forward Proposals in Each of the Above to Fund These Statutory Requirements Including from Existing Housing Managed Funds, the General Fund and / or Innovative Public Investment Options, Like Abundance Efforts continue to be made by the Resource to ensure best value for tenants and other customers across existing functions and new requirements of both Housing Services and Property Services. External funding opportunities to support functions of both services across both revenue and capital provisions are routinely explored, with funds awarded reported to Executive Committee as part of existing reporting arrangements. In addition, efforts sought to enhance and improve housing assets can be achieved through use of the General Services budgets. In the 2026/2027 South Lanarkshire Council Budget this included £0.500milllon contribution to the Estate Improvement Budget, as reported to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 3 June 2026. Projects allocated funding through this additional budget are now being progressed. 150
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5. Next Steps 5.1. Housing and Technical Resources will continue to progress each aspect of the Motion, seeking to implement any outstanding statutory requirements in line with timescales set. 5.2. Subsequent reporting on each aspect of the Motion will take place through existing reporting structures, including through the Resource Plan and statutory reporting requirements. 6. Employee Implications 6.1. There is no employee implications associated with this report. Employee implications associated with each aspect of the Motion will be reported separately. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. Financial implications associated with each aspect of the Motion will be reported separately. 8. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no climate change, sustainability or environmental implications as a result of this report. 9. Risk and Other Implications 9.1. There are no additional risks associated with this report. 10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. This report does not directly introduce a new policy, strategy or plan and is not subject to impact assessment requirements. 10.2 This report seeks to provide an overview of responses to key aspects of the Motion approved at South Lanarkshire Council on 10 December 2026. Whilst no consultation has taken place on the report, aspects within will be subject to or included within wider plans, policies or strategies that are subject to and reflective of previous or further consultation arrangements. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 7 August 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Previous References ♦ South Lanarkshire Council, 10 December 2025 ♦ Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 21 January 2026 ♦ Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 3 June 2026 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 18 March 2026 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 14 May 2025 List of Background Papers ♦ None 151
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Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Sharon Egan, Head of Housing Services E-mail: Sharon.egan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services E-mail: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 152
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Annual Review of the Housing Services Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- provide Housing and Technical Resources Committee with an update on the progress made during 2025/2026 against delivery of the agreed outcomes set out in the Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 [purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the progress delivering the agreed Customer Involvement Strategy objectives across four strategic outcomes be noted. 3. Background 3.1. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 requires local authorities to have a strategy in place setting out how tenants and customers can influence decisions about the housing services they receive. The strategy was developed in accordance with the requirements of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, alongside the principles of both the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 and the National Standards for Community Engagement. 3.2. The Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 was approved by Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 7 February 2024 and implemented from 1 April 2024. It is the fifth strategy prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 and was developed in accordance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements. 3.3. The strategy covers a five-year period with the second annual review outlining progress achieved during 2025/2026. The first annual review was presented to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 8 October 2025. 3.4. As with previous Customer Involvement Strategies, tenants play a key role in the development and implementation and continue to play an active role in the annual review process through the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group (TPCG), comprising tenants from across South Lanarkshire. 18 153
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3.5. The Strategy is constructed around four high level strategic objectives with a series of indicators contained within each to be delivered by the council and its partners. The four strategic objectives for the strategy are:- customers are informed and knowledgeable more customers are involved customers drive continuous service improvement customers share change and make a difference 4. Context and Wider Policy Changes 4.1. As part of the review process, changes in policy context have taken place nationally since the strategy was approved in February 2024 are considered. 4.2. During 2025/2026, the Scottish Government published research into the support available to tenants across Scotland to engage and participate with the work of their landlord, which concluded that the three most important factors are having specialist tenant participation staff, providing training, and publishing a tenant participation strategy. All three of these are already in place in South Lanarkshire, which contributes to a 96% tenant satisfaction rate with opportunities to participate, evidenced through the Tenant Satisfaction Survey undertaken in 2025. The Council will continue to work with tenants through the delivery of the Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 to further improve people’s opportunities to influence the planning and delivery of housing services. 5. Customer Involvement Strategy Annual Review 5.1. The strategy contains 23 indicators against which the Council monitors progress. In line with wider reporting arrangements across the council, these indicators can be categorised into ‘green’, ‘amber’, or ‘red’ depending on the progress made against them. Actions can also be recorded as ‘completed’ (blue) where appropriate, or ‘to be reported later’ if they are planned for delivery in a future year of the Strategy. 5.2. At the end of 2025/2026, 78% of indicators were in line with projected targets, up from 68% in 2024/25. Table 1 outlines the 2025/2026 categorisation of the 23 objectives:- Table 1: Overview of objectives Blue (complete) Green (on track) Amber (minor slippage) Red (major slippage) To be reported later Total 0 18 2 0 3 23 Table 1: Categorisation of Customer Involvement Strategy objectives 2025/2026 154
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5.3. Key highlights across the 4 strategic outcomes achieved during 2025/2026 are provided below:- Strategic Outcome 1 – Customers are informed and knowledgeable:- ♦ The Customer Publicity Group, made up of tenant representatives and the council, met five times during 2025/2026 to ensure that Housing and Technical Resources publications communications were clear and easy to understand to tenants. This included reviewing and recommending changes to rent letters, court notifications and health and safety letters (gas and electric inspections) ♦ Housing Services published nine newsletters to keep customers informed during 2025/2026 ♦ 2 editions of Housing News which contained articles and features relating to the revised Housing Repairs Policy, the outcome of the rent setting consultation for 2025/2026, and an update on progress in delivering the kitchen replacement programme in Council homes ♦ 1 edition of Sheltered Housing News which contained updates on the results of the sheltered housing tenant satisfaction survey, information on mobility scooter storage, and advice on consumer crime and identifying scams ♦ 4 rural housing newsletters, one each for the villages of Forth, Glespin, Rigside, and Douglas which detailed progress in delivering rural housing plans and the outcome of the Rural Villages survey undertaken during 2024/2025 ♦ 1 newsletter for each of the Council’s 2 Gypsy/Traveller sites at Shawlands Crescent and Springbank Park promoting site improvements and the completion of the new playpark at Springbank Park ♦ social media and direct messaging (text messages and emails) were used to promote 7 surveys throughout 2025/2026 to tenants. This included the annual rent setting consultation, and a customer involvement survey to learn more about how tenants and other customers would like to be involved going forward. A total of 2,637 responses were received during 2025/2026, bringing the total number of survey responses to 5,289 since the strategy began Strategic Outcome 2 – More customers are involved:- ♦ just under 100 tenants and other customers attended the first Housing Services Customer Voices conference in September 2025, many of whom were new to customer involvement activities. The conference included quizzes and interactive discussions to help inform the view of the Housing Allocation Policy. Attendees reported very high satisfaction rates with the conference, with proposals now underway for a second conference to take place in September 2026 ♦ during 2025/2026, 285 tenants or other customers consented to being added to the ‘interested individual’ database, bringing the total added to the database since the strategy began to 715. Everyone on the database is contacted regularly throughout the year about participating in events, meetings, and consultations ♦ divisional based housing meetings have been up and running in East Kilbride, Larkhall, Hamilton, Larkhall and Cambuslang since October 2025. By March 2026 there have been approximately 120 attendances at 17 meetings, with local communities determining agenda items, priorities for discussion, and the frequency of meetings. To reduce barriers to participation, people can attend in person or online and to date the approach has strengthened transparency, improved understanding of housing performance, and created greater 155
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opportunities for customers to influence local service delivery and decision making ♦ the Council continued to engage with people using homelessness services in South Lanarkshire, including consultation on the development of a new Gender Based Violence Policy, the provision of new First Stop accommodation, and the development of welcome packs for people in temporary furnished flats and First Stop accommodation Strategic Outcome 3 – Customers drive continuous service improvement:- ♦ the Customer Scrutiny Group, with 10 tenant representatives from the four housing divisions across South Lanarkshire, agreed the Customer Scrutiny Programme for 2025/2026. This programme included two scrutiny exercises focusing on the role of Housing Officers in effectively managing the council’s housing estates, and the delivery of the Tenancy Sustainment Fund. Following each exercise, recommendations were presented by tenants to the Resource Management Team for consideration Strategic Outcome 4: Customers shape change and make a difference:- ♦ throughout the year, 1,700 tenants and other customers were involved in directing Housing and Technical Resources spending of over £17 million during 2025/2026 as part of the Council’s wider Participatory Budgeting programme. This included:- ♦ tenants in the next phase of the Kitchen Replacement Programme picking their preferred style of kitchen for their tenancy, totaling £9.098 million ♦ tenants selecting their preferred style of windows and/or doors as part of the replacement programme, totaling £4.511 million ♦ tenants in Rigside and Forth being consulted on a series of external fabric upgrades to their homes, totaling £3.599 million ♦ upgrades at the Shawlands Crescent Gypsy/Traveller totaling £0.396 million, agreed with residents as part of the site Masterplan. ♦ tenants in the four divisions informing priorities for the spending of the Estate Improvement Budget, totaling £0.080 million ♦ tenants involved in directing the Customer Involvement Budget through the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group (TPCG) and Project Monitoring Group (PMG), totaling £0.070 million ♦ a comprehensive tenant satisfaction survey is undertaken every three years by the independent company Research Resource Scotland on behalf of Housing Services. During 2025/2026, feedback from 1,600 tenants saw satisfaction rates increase to:- ♦ 93.44% for overall satisfaction ♦ 97% for keeping tenants informed ♦ 92.13% for quality of home ♦ 92.25% for management of neighbourhoods 5.4. 2 outcomes were assessed as ‘amber’ during the 2025/2026 annual review:- ♦ while good progress was made to develop and improve engagement opportunities for young people during the first year of the strategy, there has been minor slippage during 2025/2026 as development work is undertaken to make links with more 156
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groups working with young people across South Lanarkshire. Plans to further engage with young people will be prioritised during 2026/2027 ♦ the work to publish annual ‘You Said, We Did’ feedback to customers is underway, but a final publication plan is being developed in line with timescales for the review of the South Lanarkshire Council website during 2026/2027 5.5. There were no red indicators identified during the review. Performance across all outcomes will continue to be monitored in 2026/2027. 6. Proposed Revisions to the Strategy 6.1. As well as providing an opportunity to assess and report on progress, the annual review process allows for a general re-examination of the Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 by partners to ensure that the strategic outcomes and objectives remain appropriate, relevant and measurable. 6.2. Following the completion of the review, there are no proposed revisions to the performance framework were identified at this stage. 7. Next Steps 7.1. The review identified that Housing and Technical Resources has made good progress in 2025/2026 towards delivering the 4 strategic outcomes. 7.2. The Council will continue to work strategically with tenants and other partners to engage with customers of Housing Services to deliver the Customer Involvement Strategy during 2026/2027. 7.3. The Council will continue to monitor, influence and where possible enact any national policy changes that relate to the Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029. 8. Employee Implications 8.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 9. Financial Implications 9.1. There are no financial implications as a result of this report. Financial resources relating to effective engagement with tenants as outlined in the strategy are considered as part of the business planning arrangements for Housing Services. 10. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 10.1. There are no climate change, sustainability, or environmental implications as a result of this report. 10.2. The Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) pre-screening determination reached during the development of the strategy concluded that a full SEA was not required. 11. Risk and Other Implications 11.1. There are no other implications as a result of this report. 12. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 12.1. Whilst the Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 was introduced prior to the implementation of Integrated Impact Assessments, both an Equality Impact Assessment and a Fairer Scotland Duty assessment were conducted. These identified no negative impact on any equality group arising from the strategy and would have a positive impact on those experiencing poverty and material deprivation. 157
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Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 25 June 2026 Links to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Focused on people and their needs ♦ Working with and respecting others ♦ Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent ♦ Ambitious, self-aware and improving ♦ Fair, open and sustainable Previous References ♦ Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report ‘Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029, 7 February 2024 List of Background Papers ♦ Customer Involvement Strategy 2024 to 2029 Contact for Further Information If you would like further information, please contact:- Claire Frew, Strategy Co-ordinator, Housing and Technical Resources E-mail: claire.frew@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 158
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 2 September 2026 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Notification of Contracts Awarded - 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide notification to Committee, in accordance with Standing Orders on Contracts, of contracts awarded by Housing and Technical Resources during the period 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [r] (1) that details of the contracts awarded be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. It is a requirement of Clause 21.8 of the Standing Orders on contracts that details of the acceptance of all tenders above £50,000, be reported retrospectively to the relevant Committee for noting other than those under Clause 21.3 where the award is not the lowest in a price only tender, or costs exceed the approved financial provision. In these instances, a report is submitted to the appropriate Committee and subsequent authority to award is granted by that Committee. 4. Contracts Awarded 4.1. The details of contracts awarded for the period 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026, on the basis of lowest offer and/or most economically advantageous offer submitted, are provided at Appendix 1. 4.2. The details of contracts extended for the period are provided at Appendix 2. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. Contracts management including performance appraisal will be undertaken the Resource with support from Procurement. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. There are no financial implications associated with this report which is for information purposes only. Appropriate budgetary provision is available for each of the contracts awarded. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no climate change, sustainability or environmental implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 19 159
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8. Risk and Other Implications 8.1. There is a risk that failure to report awards may lead to contracts being awarded that do not represent best value, breach statutory procurement obligations and Standing Orders or do not follow internal processes which mitigate the risk. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. 9.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 1 May 2026 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Emma Smith, Corporate Procurement and Transactions Manager Ext: 5329 (Tel: 01698 455329) E-mail: emma.smith@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 160
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Appendix 1
Contracts Awarded over £50,000 in value
Contract Reference
Number Contract Description Contractor
Name
Estimated
Value (£) Start Date End Date Extension
Date
Award
date
SLC/HT/25/026
Supply and Delivery of
Ventilation, Heating and
Water Heating Materials
Edmundson
Electrical
Limited
£850,928.77 01/10/2025 30/09/2027 30/09/2029 02/10/2025
SLC/HT/25/071 Concrete Repairs
Allied
Construction
Services Scot
Ltd
£1,141,542.19 06/10/2025 05/10/2027 05/10/2028 02/10/2025
SLC/HT/25/163 Void and Fire Damaged
Property Decoration Works Bell Group Ltd £600,000.00 01/10/2025 30/09/2026 - 02/10/2025
SLC/HT/25/144
Non-Housing Paint and
Decoration Maintenance
and Repairs
Spectrum
Decorating Ltd £100,000.00 01/10/2025 30/09/2026 - 02/10/2025
SLC/HT/24/065
Maintenance of the
Combined Heat and Power
Unit ("CHP") Unit at
Hamilton Water Palace
Centrica
Business
Solutions Uk
Ltd
£238,049.77 24/10/2025 23/10/2035 - 20/10/2025
SLC/HT/24/182 St Leonards Heat Network
Smart Meter Install
Switch2
Energy Limited £264,583.88 01/11/2025 31/03/2026 - 20/10/2025
SLC/HT/25/128 St Leonards Heat Network
Metering and Billing
Switch2
Energy Limited £167,050.00 01/11/2025 31/10/2030 - 20/10/2025
SLC/PS/COMENT/23/019/2/024 4 Man Tarring Squad –
HTR Building Services
Joseph Leckie
& Sons
Contracts Ltd
£198,000.00 20/10/2025 30/01/2026 - 21/10/2025
SLC/HT/25/027
Supply and Delivery of
Lamps, Light Fittings and
Accessories
BEMCO Ltd £664,681.38 03/11/2025 02/11/2027 02/11/2029 23/10/2025
SLC/HT/24/074
Land Led Development and
New Build Housing
(Backmuir Road)
JR
Construction
(Scotland) Ltd
£5,746,399.26 24/10/2025 28/02/2027 - 24/10/2025
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Contract Reference
Number Contract Description Contractor
Name
Estimated
Value (£) Start Date End Date Extension
Date
Award
date
SLC/HT/24/131
Land Led Development and
New Build Housing at Reid
Street, Burnbank
JR
Construction
(Scotland) Ltd
£6,006,886.16 23/10/2025 11/03/2027 - 24/10/2025
SLC/HT/25/147 Supply, Uplift and Disposal
of Asbestos Waste Skips
Patersons
Waste
Management
Ltd
£150,000.00 03/11/2025 02/11/2030 - 27/10/2025
SLC/HT/24/064
Negotiated Procedure for
the Maintenance of the
Combined Heat and Power
Unit ("CHP") Unit at
Larkhall Leisure Centre
Centrica
Business
Solutions Uk
Ltd
£103,084.78 03/11/2025 31/10/2030 - 05/11/2025
SLC/HT/25/175 Calderglen Zoo Roof Works
Maxi
Construction
Ltd
£424,659.37 17/11/2025 06/02/2026 - 09/11/2025
SLC/HT/25/176 Chatelherault Cafe and
Toilets Upgrade
Maxi
Construction
Ltd
£246,347.63 05/01/2026 20/02/2026 - 11/11/2025
SLC/HT/25/168 IT Programme Manager
(TS) – The HOME Project
Gravitas
Recruitment
Group Ltd
£59,614.00 06/10/2025 31/01/2026 - 24/11/2025
SLC/HT/25/040 General Roofing Works Ailsa Building
Contractors Ltd £1,769,071.95 24/11/2025 23/11/2027 23/11/2028 24/11/2025
SLC/HT/25/169 IT Programme Manager
(BH) – The HOME Project
Gravitas
Recruitment
Group Ltd
£50,000.00 06/10/2025 31/01/2026 - 26/11/2025
SLC/HT/25/170 Supply and Install of Smart
Storage Heating Controls
City Building
Contracts LLP £140,000.00 08/12/2025 31/03/2026 - 01/12/2025
SLC/HT/25/166 Back Up Contractor –
Refurbishment Works
HLS
McConnell
Limited
£4,800,000.00 15/12/2025 15/12/2027 15/12/2029 15/12/2025
SLC/HT/25/159
Supply and Delivery of
Cable and Cable
Management Materials
Edmundson
Electrical
Limited
£581,527.86 05/01/2026 04/01/2028 04/01/2030 18/12/2025
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Contract Reference Number Contract Description Contractor Name Estimated Value (£) Start Date End Date Extension Date Award date SLC/HT/25/142 Groundworks Measured Term Contract 2026 - 2028 Stepford Contracts Ltd £1,081,415.39 22/12/2025 21/12/2027 - 11/12/2025 SLC/HT/25/005 Removal of Asbestos with Reinstatement and Remedial Works Rhodar Industrial Services Ltd £4,600,999.39 21/01/2026 20/01/2028 20/01/2030 18/12/2025 SLC/HT/25/013 Asbestos Consultancy Services Environmental Essentials Ltd £1,224,043.18 16/02/2026 15/02/2029 15/02/2030 18/12/2025 SLC/HT/25/158 Design and Installation of Gas Central Heating Systems - Back Up Contractor BRB Ltd £800,000.00 12/01/2026 11/01/2028 11/01/2030 08/01/2026 SLC/HT/25/041 Christie Place Fabric Works including RAAC Removal GMG Contractors Ltd £1,186,350.41 16/02/2026 14/09/2027 - 19/01/2026 SLC/FC/26/012 Scottish Procurement Supply of Electricity Framework Call-off from Scottish Procurement Electricity Framework, SP- 21-052 EDF Energy Customers Ltd £77,918,632.22 01/04/2026 31/03/2027 31/03/2028 19/01/2026 SLC/HT/25/119 South Lanarkshire Council Phase 5 Demolition Dem-Master Demolition Ltd £1,360,016.84 19/01/2026 18/01/2029 18/01/2030 21/01/2026 SLC/HT/25/165 Supply and Delivery of Wiring Accessories and Circuit Protection Bemco Ltd £921,773.26 02/02/2026 01/02/2028 02/02/2030 23/01/2026 SLC/HT/25/199 Project Management Feasibility Work – South Lanarkshire Council Estates Strategy Review Turner & Townsend Project £220,000.00 02/02/2026 30/06/2026 - 28/01/2026 SLC/HT/25/223 New Build – Cairnswell Avenue, Cambuslang Hub South West Scotland Ltd £11,041,626.48 02/02/2026 19/04/2027 - 02/02/2026 SLC/HT/25/224 Estate Strategy Review Phase 1 Hub South West Scotland Ltd £154,479.89 21/01/2026 31/03/2026 - 02/02/2026 163
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Contract Reference Number Contract Description Contractor Name Estimated Value (£) Start Date End Date Extension Date Award date SLC/HT/25/042 Brandongate Floor 1 NHS Centre – Mechanical & Plumbing Kentallen Mechanical Services Ltd £103,861.80 02/03/2026 29/06/2026 - 04/02/2026 SLC/HT/25/172 Roof Repairs at Low Parks AMAC Roofing Sheeting Cladding Ltd £97,974.45 16/03/2026 08/05/2026 - 13/02/2026 SLC/FC/26/021 Continuous Customer Feedback Services APS Group (Scotland) Ltd £190,000.00 01/04/2026 31/03/2030 06/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/248 Gym & Studio Transformation Phase 2 Hub South West Scotland Ltd £733,334.40 21/11/2025 27/03/2026 25/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/198 Overton Park Bandstand – Refurbishment Phase 3 Covanburn Contracts Ltd £362,011.31 13/04/2026 10/07/2026 - 25/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/204 Blantyre Depot – Parking (Hard Landscaping) Joseph Leckie & Sons Contracts Ltd £91,489.97 20/04/2026 01/05/2026 - 26/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/205 Supply and Delivery of Paint, Paint Sundries and Paint Packs Crown Paints Ltd £1,132,629.60 23/03/2026 22/03/2030 - 28/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/253 Electronic Gates Project Hub South West Scotland Ltd £895,268.88 02/02/2026 31/08/2026 - 28/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/284 Town Halls Transformation Hub South West Scotland Ltd £971,146.45 16/02/2026 31/08/2026 - 31/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/171 Supply, Delivery of Air Source Heat Pumps UK Plumbing Supplies Ltd T/A Plumbstore £1,808,078.33 07/04/2026 06/04/2028 06/04/2030 31/03/2026 SLC/HT/25/227 Acquisition of 43 Affordable Homes at New Road, Cambuslang Realm Homes Limited £8,799,750.00 30/03/2026 31/03/2028 - 31/03/2026 164
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Appendix 2 Contract extensions awarded for contracts over £50,000 in value Contract Reference Number Contract Description Contractor Name Estimated Value (£) Extension Value (£) Date of Extension Start Date End Date Further Extension Date SLC/HT/24/158 Homelessness Out of Hours Service Salvation Army Social Work Trust £99,559.53 £35,118.00 22/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/07/2026 - SLC/HT/24/157 First Stop Supported Accommodation Salvation Army Social Work Trust £474,384.60 £176,228.14 22/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/07/2026 - SLC/HT/24/154 First Stop Supported Accommodation - Wide Close Blue Triangle (Glasgow) Housing £602,347.71 £150,586.93 29/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/05/2026 - SLC/HT/24/155 Family First Stop – Charles Brownlee Blue Triangle (Glasgow) Housing £1,104,833.02 £276,208.26 29/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/05/2026 - SLC/HT/24/156 Supported Accommodation - Clydesdale Street Blue Triangle (Glasgow) Housing £448,780.95 £112,195.24 29/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/05/2026 - SLC/HT/24/159 1st Stop Accommodation Wheatley Care £213,415.66 £50,373.48 30/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/05/2026 30/11/2026 SLC/HT/24/160 Outreach Support Wheatley Care £163,605.72 £40,968.03 30/10/2025 01/12/2025 31/05/2026 30/11/2026 SLC/HT/24/110 Fixed Electrical Testing Programme and Remedials Saltire Facilities Management Ltd £1,800,000.00 £900,000.00 19/11/2025 25/11/2025 24/11/2026 - SLC/HT/25/073 Domestic Abuse and Refuge Services Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire & East 1 £878,009.22 £448,452.90 09/12/2025 01/01/2026 31/12/2026 - 165
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SLC/HT/23/238 Supply and Delivery of Smoke Detectors Bemco Ltd £1,455,405.21 £838,428.38 09/02/2026 12/02/2026 11/02/2028 - SLC/HT/25/133 Intensive Support - Outreach Blue Triangle (Glasgow) Housing £124,567.39 £54,983.76 20/02/2026 01/04/2026 31/03/2027 - SLC/HT/25/134 Prevent and Sustain - Outreach Blue Triangle (Glasgow) Housing £256,685.59 £113,300.64 20/02/2026 01/04/2026 31/03/2027 - SLC/HT/25/127 Salvation Army Intensive Support - Outreach Salvation Army £314,506.28 £161,088.58 26/02/2026 01/04/2026 31/03/2027 - SLC/HT/25/124 Salvation Army Housing First - Outreach Salvation Army Social Work Trust £209,670.85 £107,392.39 26/02/2026 01/04/2026 31/03/2027 - SLC/PS/COMENT/22/154/B Industrial Cleaning, Pest Control and Other Environmental Services - Lot 2: Pest Control Excel Environmental Services Ltd £1,000,000.00 £540,432.00 10/03/2026 01/04/2026 31/03/2028 - SLC/HT/24/053 Supply, Delivery and Hire of Secure Site Containers and Welfare Units Sibcas Ltd £207,867.60 £98,010.17 10/03/2026 17/03/2026 16/03/2027 - SLC/HT/23/218 Supply and Delivery of Timber Doors MGM Timber (Scotland) Ltd £604,771.02 £332,984.11 20/03/2026 25/03/2026 24/03/2028 - SLC/HT/24/190 Emergency Roofing Repairs GMG Contractors Ltd £2,000,000.00 £958,000.00 20/03/2026 23/03/2026 22/03/2027 - SLC/HT/25/196 IT Project Manager Consultancy Gravitas Recruitment Group Ltd £58,500.00 £29,250.00 26/03/2026 07/04/2026 03/07/2026 - SLC/PS/COMENT/22/154/A Industrial Cleaning, Pest Control and Other Environmental Greenerleaf Estate Maintenance Ltd £3,810,750.00 £1,270,203.00 30/03/2026 01/04/2026 31/03/2027 -- 166
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Services - Lot 1: Industrial Cleaning and other Environmental Services 167
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