Homes by Association by Mary Taylor

Homes by Association by Mary Taylor

Homes by Association by Mary Taylor is an insightful and engaging history of housing associations in Scotland, charting their development from the 1970s to the present day. Exploring more than 50 years of Scottish social housing, the book examines how community-led, not-for-profit housing organisations transformed affordable housing provision across cities, towns, rural communities and islands throughout Scotland.

Ideal for readers interested in affordable housing in Scotland, public policy, community development and social housing, Homes by Association provides a clear understanding of how housing associations evolved from small grassroots initiatives into professional organisations delivering homes for nearly half a million people. The book highlights the sector’s social purpose, resilience and commitment to high-quality, people-focused housing.

Drawing on real-world case studies, sector research, photographs and insights from experienced housing professionals and leading practitioners, the book offers valuable perspectives on governance, leadership and sustainable community development. It also explores the wider role housing associations play in supporting public good, tackling housing inequality and strengthening local communities.

Timely and thought-provoking, Homes by Association is essential reading for housing professionals, policymakers, students and anyone interested in the future of social housing and not-for-profit organisations in Scotland. By examining the successes and challenges of the sector, the book demonstrates what housing associations can teach us about resilient organisations, long-term investment and building communities that last.

Mary Taylor’s career in housing spans practice in housing management, academia, and sector leadership, mostly around housing associations. She retired in 2017 from the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) where she had been CEO for 7 years. She sees herself as ‘pracademic’!