Digital Housing Strategy to improve Glasgow’s housing services

Glasgow City Council has worked in partnership with Registered Social Landlords and private landlords to develop a Digital Housing Strategy for Glasgow - a first in Scotland.

The strategy has been developed around four housing-related themes: data; digital inclusion; systems and services; and technology. A total of 32 RSLs - who own 75 per cent of the city's social rented housing stock - provided valuable feedback in their responses to the Digital Housing Survey.

A key aim of the strategy is to expand the provision of digital housing services offered to RSL households living in the city. However, traditional customer service methods such as face-to-face and telephone contact should continue to be provided going forward to ensure that all tenants can choose how they access housing services.

The data provided by RSLs suggests that 65 per cent of households living in the city's social rented housing sector do not use a broadband connection in their home. The main reasons for digital exclusion include affordability, lack of skills and/or a reluctance to transact online.

Kenny McLean, City Convener for Neighbourhoods, Housing and Public Realm at Glasgow City Council, said: "The development of a Digital Housing Strategy presents a range of opportunities for delivering service improvements across the city's housing sector using technology and innovation. Glasgow City Council will continue to work effectively with Registered Social Landlords and other partners to address the challenges that are outlined in the strategy. Working together with partners to deliver the action plan will enhance access to, and the quality of, housing for many people."