ALMOST 1,200 long-term homes are to be brought back into use for those fleeing the war in Ukraine, the Scottish Government has announced.
The move comes as part of the Scottish Government’s £50 million Ukraine Longer-Term Resettlement Fund, which supports local authorities and registered social landlords to improve properties that are currently void.
Launched in September 2022 following a successful pilot, it has helped to bring 1,168 homes back into use through 14 approved projects and £23 million in grant funding. Almost 1,000 Ukrainians are living in 450 of the refurbished homes, with a further 225 currently being tenanted.
Social justice secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said, “We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and are determined to do all we can to help those who wish to build their life here in Scotland.
“Our innovative £50 million programme provides a vital lifeline for those fleeing the war by providing long-term and secure accommodation through reclaimed empty homes. I am proud that Scotland has been able to play its part and pleased to see us reach and surpass the crucial milestone of 1,000 homes for displaced Ukrainians.
“We have been able to house hundreds of families and individuals in safe accommodation so far and we will continue to work closely with councils and housing associations as we build on this excellent progress.”
City of Edinburgh Council housing, homelessness, and fair work convener, councillor Jane Meagher, added, “We are proud to continue our support of displaced Ukrainians, and are committed to assisting those making their new lives here in Edinburgh and beyond.
“The £50 million programme to refit currently empty properties is very much welcomed and will make a positive difference to many families. The approximately 100 homes in Edinburgh that will benefit from the programme will initially be used to house displaced Ukrainians, before ultimately being returned to our council housing stock. Without the support of the programme it is unlikely we would have been able to bring these properties back into use for some time.
“However, it is important that we remember the scale of the housing challenges our residents currently face, not just in Edinburgh but across Scotland.”
“We will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government and our other partners as we move forward.”
