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Volume 6
Context of Scheme of Assistance
1.1. The Scheme of Assistance project team are in the process of developing guidance to implement the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006. The Scheme of Assistance is a major part of the legislation and policy to improve the condition of Scotland's private housing. It offers the opportunity to make an impact on the very large numbers of houses that are in a poor condition and are not reached by the present approach, and to extend opportunities for independent living through adaptations for disabled people.
1.2. The final report of the Housing Improvement Task Force "Stewardship and Responsibility: A Policy Framework for Private Housing in Scotland", published in March 2003, identified the problems faced by householders in identifying reliable traders and the negative impact this may have on the maintenance of their property.
1.3. As part of the development of guidance for the Scheme of Assistance, the project team researched the barriers homeowners face when looking to carry out repair or maintenance work to their home. The project team's interviews with stakeholders, voluntary organisations, local authorities and focus groups with members of the public support the views of the Housing Improvement Task Force. A significant barrier identified by our research suggested these issues could be addressed in part through development of a Trusted Trader framework in Scotland. A number of those interviewed expressed the view that homeowners face a number of barriers when looking for reliable traders. These include an issue of trust over the standard and quality of work, value for money and a lack of reputable traders to carry out the work in a reasonable timescale.
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