Veterans Housing Scotland seeks funds for affordable homes. Rising renovation costs threaten low rents for disabled veterans.
Veterans Housing Scotland helps disabled veterans. They provide affordable rental homes. Renovation costs nearly doubled in the last three years.
Craig and Yvonne Pugh found a “forever home” in Penicuik, Midlothian. The charity helped them find it. They were the first in ‘nomination rights’ homes, where the council provides properties and VHS gives wraparound support.
The charity identified Craig’s mental health issues stemming from his service in Kosovo and Iraq. Craig realized he needed help after talking and gained confidence to discuss mental health.
Craig is a chef at a barracks. He and Yvonne moved to Scotland in 2018, having previously lived in England in military housing. They rented privately in Edinburgh, but the situation became difficult.
Yvonne said rent could increase anytime, and landlords could sell the property fast. Their VHS rental gives them security, as they know their rent amount and won’t face unexpected changes.
The charity has provided this service for a century. The third sector faces hard times currently. VHS hopes to get business and public support, needing products and renovation services.
CEO Kevin Gray wants to avoid raising rents, which remain below social rent levels. They are now facing huge costs. Refurbishing a property can cost a lot, often between £40,000 to £60,000.