Letter: Home help

A recent unpopular change in policy would have meant housing associations would have to find an extra 8.4 million to help people stay in their homes. The resulting strain on the public purse in healthcare and social services would have been unsustainable.

But, without government support, housing associations, with already squeezed budgets, would, in many cases, simply be unable to afford to make the adaptations.

This would lead to people having to move out of their homes and some people being stuck in hospital, adding to "bed blocking" which is costing the health budget so much today.

This is undoubtedly an issue looking at the big picture. However, the individual human cost is what must be always be remembered and put at the forefront of decision-making.

At the moment, the 1,000 threshold for adaptation work is being reviewed and the previous sum of 150 reinstated.

I support the calls by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations for the associations to work with the government to find the most cost-effective and sensible solutions to allow people to live in their homes for as long as possible.

Keith Anderson

Port of Leith Housing Association

Constitution Street

Edinburgh