Glasgow City Council has identified potential for a web based common housing register to improve access to affordable accommodation.
It has pointed to the possibility as part of an announcement on the early progress of its Digital Housing Strategy, which it published in October of last year.
The council has also found evidence that a majority of people in social rented housing do not use a broadband connection in their homes.
Glasgow produced the strategy – which it said is a first for Scotland – to make the most of digital and data in its efforts to improve local housing, and outlined four themes on data, digital inclusion, systems and services, and technology.
It has now carried out a survey of registered social landlords (RSLs) private landlords and other stakeholders. 32 RSLs - who own 75% of the city’s social housing stock – provided information suggesting that 65% of households do not use a broadband connection, a significant factor in digital exclusion.
Digital platform potential
The council said there are opportunities for the RSLs to us digital platforms to expand how customers access services and housing, and that developing a web based common housing register would help in improving access to affordable housing. It would also improve the collection of relevant data.
Councillor 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.”
