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In Scotland today, thousands of people live in flats that are entirely unsuitable for their needs—not because they want to, but because they have no other option.
For many who are autistic, experience severe anxiety, PTSD, or have sensory processing disorders, living in a flat or semi-detached home can be a daily battle. From neighbours slamming doors to footsteps above, the noise and sensory input experienced through shared walls, ceilings, and floors can cause overwhelming distress—far beyond what most people would even imagine.
Yet time and again, this type of housing is labelled as “suitable.” Why? Because so many one-bedroom detached properties—homes that would offer the peace and stability we need—are either age-restricted (e.g. 55+ only) or considered off-limits to people with sensory-based disabilities.
This needs to change.
While there is no objection to ensuring that older adults have access to safe and appropriate housing, the current system completely overlooks the very real and pressing needs of disabled people under retirement age. It also fails to uphold the principles of equal access outlined in the Equality Act 2010, which recognises autism, PTSD, and other sensory conditions as disabilities. Reasonable adjustments are not optional—they are a legal requirement.
In many cases, making these adjustments wouldn’t even require building new homes. We simply need to make better use of the existing housing stock—opening up detached bungalows and cottages to those who need them based on medical and sensory need, not just age.
Where appropriate housing isn’t available, the Scottish Government should support the creation of small-scale, one-bedroom detached homes specifically designed for neurodivergent individuals. Everyone deserves a safe and supportive living environment.
Sadly, many housing providers still do not take these needs seriously. Despite clear evidence and medical documentation, requests for reasonable adjustments are often ignored. This is the reality for many disabled people—not only denied housing that suits their needs, but denied the basic dignity of being heard.
If current legislation is blocking access to detached properties for people under 55 with sensory disabilities, then that legislation must be reviewed. If landlords and housing associations continue to ignore their responsibilities, stronger enforcement mechanisms are essential.
It’s time for housing policy to reflect real-life experience. We must stop forcing neurodivergent individuals into environments that actively harm their wellbeing due to arbitrary policies.
Scotland has the opportunity to lead by example—and show that inclusive housing isn’t just a goal, but a commitment.
#DisabilityHousingJustice #NeurodivergentVoices #InclusiveHousing #AutismAcceptance #SensorySafeHousing #ScottishHousingReform