Blog: Subjects today shape Scotland tomorrow

Blog by Ellie Craig

5th November 2026

The subjects young people study today will help shape Scotland’s economy tomorrow

Choosing subjects at school can feel like a personal decision about what you enjoy, what you are good at and perhaps what you might want to do next. Most of us do not have a clear career plan at that age. But the choices available to young people can have a lasting influence on their opportunities – and on the skills Scotland will have in the years ahead.

The range of qualifications available to school pupils is changing. National Progression Awards (NPAs) offer opportunities to study subjects from criminology and construction to data science and cyber security. Their growth has been striking: the number of NPA awards recorded through Scottish schools more than trebled between 2022 and 2026.

That is worth celebrating.

Scotland needs an education system that recognises different talents and gives young people more ways to develop their interests and abilities.

As businesses adopt new technologies and seek to improve productivity, the ability to solve problems and adapt to change will be increasingly important.

But growth in qualifications is not, on its own, proof that opportunity is improving for everyone.

Our latest David Hume Institute briefing, Unequal Pathways? Access to National Progression Awards in Scotland, found considerable geographical variation in the number of NPA subjects with recorded attainment in schools. In 2026, that ranged from one subject in Shetland to 55 in Edinburgh and Fife.

These figures do not prove that young people in areas with fewer recorded subjects have fewer opportunities, as they do not capture the full contribution of colleges and partnership arrangements.

That is precisely the problem: Scotland does not yet have a sufficiently complete picture of the opportunities available to young people.

If we are serious about broadening the senior phase, we need to know whether that ambition is being realised across the country.

Local flexibility can be a strength, but it should widen opportunity, not make it harder to see who is missing out.

There is another important question: what happens after a young person gains an NPA?

Qualifications only have real value if learners understand where they can take them. Some universities recognise particular NPAs for specific courses, but approaches vary and information can be difficult to find.

Young people should not have to discover during the admissions process that a qualification they have worked hard to achieve may not count towards their chosen next step.

This matters for employers, too.

If schools are to offer a wider range of relevant qualifications, those qualifications need to connect to further study, training and employment. Businesses must help identify the skills they need and create routes for young people to develop and use them in the workplace.

The ambitions of the Hayward Review were about recognising a broader range of learning and giving every young person the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. The growth of NPAs suggests that parts of this ambition are already taking shape. The challenge now is to make sure the system around them keeps pace.

Scotland's economic prospects depend on the skills, ideas and adaptability of its future workforce. Education cannot guarantee economic growth, but it can help create the conditions for it. That means giving young people meaningful choices, recognising their achievements and building clearer routes from learning into work.

A broader curriculum is a promising start.

The real measure of success is whether every young person, wherever they live and whatever their interests, can develop their abilities and see a credible path ahead.

Scotland should be judged not by how many qualifications it offers, but by the opportunities those qualifications open up.

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Ellie Craig is Policy and Engagement Executive for the David Hume Institute and was the lead researcher with Director Susan Murray on the briefing: Unequal Pathways? Access to National Progression Awards in Scotland.

Sharing Thumbnail Photo by Markus Winkler on free licence on Unsplash 5th November 2026

Scotland's expanding school qualifications risk creating unequal opportunities

National Progression Awards have trebled in Scottish schools since 2022, but major gaps in recorded subject attainment and uncertainty over university recognition raise questions about whether every young person can benefit from a broader curriculum.

Published: 5th November 2026

Scotland's drive to broaden the senior phase school curriculum risks creating unequal opportunities unless young people can access a meaningful range of subjects and are confident that their qualifications will be recognised by universities, colleges and employers, new research from the David Hume Institute warns.

The report, Unequal Pathways? Access to National Progression Awards in Scotland, finds that the number of National Progression Awards (NPAs) recorded through Scottish schools has more than trebled, rising from 11,110 in 2022 to 33,735 in 2026.

School-delivered awards now account for more than three-quarters (77%) of all recorded NPA awards, compared with 57% four years ago. This represents a significant shift towards practical and applied qualifications being delivered within the school system.

But the research identifies striking geographical differences in the range of NPA subjects with recorded attainment in schools. In 2026, the number of distinct subjects recorded ranged from just one in Shetland to 55 in both Edinburgh and Fife. The national median was 31.5 subjects per local authority.

These figures do not prove that pupils in areas with fewer recorded subjects have less access. NPAs may also be delivered through colleges and partnership arrangements, which are not possible to fully capture in the geographical analysis. However, with 267 possible NPA subjects across different levels and educational settings, the absence of a comprehensive national picture makes it difficult to establish whether young people have genuinely equal opportunities.

The findings raise important questions about how Scotland will deliver the ambitions of the Hayward Review of Qualifications and Assessment, which called for all senior phase learners to have an entitlement to a broad range of academic, vocational, professional and technical learning.

Ellie Craig, lead researcher on the briefing, said:

"Scotland has made real progress in broadening the qualifications available to young people. The growth in National Progression Awards shows that schools are embracing different ways for pupils to develop practical skills and explore subjects beyond the traditional academic curriculum.

"But the number of qualifications being delivered is not the same as equality of opportunity. We need to know what young people can actually access, whether they can travel or connect to provision elsewhere, and whether the qualifications they work hard to achieve will be recognised when they move on.

"Flexibility is essential to a modern senior phase. But it must expand young people's choices, not leave their opportunities dependent on where they happen to go to school or live."

A broader curriculum is an economic growth issue

The research comes at a critical time for Scottish education and the economy. The Hayward Review proposed a more flexible senior phase, with a wider range of academic, vocational, professional and technical courses.

The growth of NPAs suggests that elements of this broader approach are already taking shape. The challenge now is to ensure that curriculum flexibility translates into meaningful opportunities for learners and the skills Scotland needs.

Scotland's future economic performance will depend in part on its ability to develop a workforce with the technical, digital, creative and practical capabilities required by changing industries. Young people need opportunities to develop those skills, while employers and universities need to understand the value of the qualifications through which they are demonstrated.

The report highlights the growing importance of subjects such as data science, artificial intelligence and cyber security. Yet recorded school attainment in Data Science was present in only eight of Scotland's 32 local authorities in 2026.

The research also finds that further education colleges recorded 285 Data Science awards at SCQF levels 4–6, in addition to 155 through school centres. This illustrates both the importance of college provision and why a school-only picture cannot tell the whole story.

Ellie Craig added:

"Implementing the Hayward Review is not simply about giving young people more qualifications to choose from. It is about developing the skills Scotland's economy will need in the future.

"Businesses need people with a wider range of capabilities, including digital, technical and problem-solving skills. If Scotland wants to become more productive, innovative and competitive, we need to make sure young people can access these learning opportunities and that employers and universities understand the value of the qualifications they achieve.

"Where a young person lives should not determine the range of skills they can develop or whether those skills are recognised."

Young people need to know their qualifications will count

The report also identifies uncertainty about how universities recognise NPAs in their admissions processes.

Some universities accept particular NPAs towards entry requirements for specific degree courses, but recognition varies by institution, subject and qualification. The Institute argues that learners, parents and teachers need clearer information about how individual awards contribute to progression into higher education and other destinations.

The issue is not simply theoretical. One current S5 pupil who spoke to the researchers described feeling dismissed when asking university admissions staff whether their Level 6 NPAs would be recognised.

Adam said:

"I've been to a couple of open days this year. I've got good grades at Nat 5 and took NPAs alongside my other subjects. I am doing the same with my Highers as I love the NPA subjects.

"But I felt completely dismissed by admissions staff at the two universities I have visited, when I asked if they recognised level 6 NPAs for UCAS points. When I spoke to the Head of Sociology and Criminology at one university, he said he had no awareness of how the Criminology NPA is treated by their admission process. At the other university, they said they would ignore my NPAs."

The findings are also relevant to the forthcoming final report of the UK Government's Milburn Review into Young People and Work, which is examining the reasons behind rising numbers of young people not in education, employment or training.

The review is taking a wider look at the relationship between education, skills, health, welfare and employment. The David Hume Institute's research highlights one important part of that picture: young people need access to relevant learning opportunities, and clear routes from those opportunities into further study, training and work.

Jocelyne Fleming of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) said:

"National Progression Awards are an integral part of Scotland's education and skills landscape, and the geographical variation highlighted by the David Hume Institute raises important questions about equity of opportunity.

"Greater transparency would also help us understand whether the pathways available are working for learners, employers and Scotland's future skills needs. At a time when sectors including construction face significant workforce challenges, we need to understand not simply which qualifications are being delivered, but how they connect to further training, apprenticeships and employment."

The Institute argues that stronger relationships between schools, colleges, universities and employers are essential if Scotland for better opportunities for young people and a more productive economy.

Four recommendations to make pathways clearer and fairer

The report calls on the Scottish Government to work with local authorities, schools, colleges, Qualifications Scotland, the SCQF Partnership and universities to:

• Improve transparency: Publish a consistent national picture of NPA provision and attainment across schools, colleges and partnership arrangements.

• Support collaboration: Evaluate regional, online and college-school delivery models to extend access to specialist subjects, particularly where local capacity is limited.

• Clarify progression: Work with universities and colleges to publish clear, course-specific information about NPA recognition and entry requirements.

• Monitor equity and emerging skills: Develop indicators to identify geographical differences in provision and participation, including whether staffing, resources or delivery arrangements constrain access to specialist and emerging-skills subjects.
  
  

The report concludes that the objective should not be to make every school's curriculum identical, but to ensure that local flexibility expands opportunity rather than inadvertently limiting it.

Ellie Craig said:

"Scotland is building a more flexible and relevant senior phase that recognises different talents and prepares young people for a changing economy.

"The priority now should be to understand where provision is working, where barriers remain and how successful approaches can be shared. Listening to young people about their experiences must be central to that work.

"Every young person should be able to make informed choices about their future, with confidence that the learning they undertake will be recognised and valued."

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Unequal Pathways? Access to National Progression Awards in Scotland is a research briefing by the David Hume Institute, authored by Ellie Craig and Susan Murray.

2. The research analyses Qualifications Scotland provisional attainment statistics for 2022–2026.

3. The geographical analysis counts distinct NPA subjects with recorded school-centre attainment in each local authority. It does not include FE college-centre attainment in the geographical comparison and therefore does not provide a complete measure of learner access.

4. The Hayward Review, It's Our Future: Report of the Independent Review of Qualifications and Assessment, was published in June 2023.

5. Alan Milburn's independent review into Young People and Work is examining the drivers of rising numbers of young people not in education, employment or training. Its final report is expected in November 2026.

Sharing Thumbnail Image: Photo by Ivan Aleksic free licence from Unsplash on 4th November 2026

Scotland’s Enlightenment Legacy Inspires a New Approach to Maths Education

Published: 26th October 2026

Maths expert, David Pritchard, comments on the David Hume Institute briefing highlighting the importance of practical mathematical reasoning, confidence and real-world problem-solving.

A rapid uptake of a new Scottish mathematics qualification is helping more young people develop the skills to apply mathematical knowledge to real-world challenges, with implications for further education, employment and decision-making in an increasingly data-driven world.

A recent briefing from the David Hume Institute, Applications of Mathematics: A Revolution in Maths Education in Scotland?, highlights the significant growth of Applications of Mathematics at National 5 and Higher levels, and its potential to broaden mathematical participation while developing skills that are increasingly important in further study and work.

The growth raises important questions about how mathematical capability is understood, how young people are prepared for further study, and which skills they need to navigate a world increasingly shaped by data and artificial intelligence.

Mathematics for a changing world

Mathematician, David Pritchard, who helped to develop the curriculum for Higher Applications of Mathematics, challenges anyone who says it is an easy option.  He said:

“When we developed Higher Applications of Mathematics, it was essential to create a course that was a Higher in its own right. It’s not a lesser version of Higher Mathematics, any more than Higher Chemistry is a lesser version of Higher Physics, or Higher Italian is a lesser version of Higher Latin. 

“The aim was to create a qualification with its own intellectual challenge, rigour and value, developing a different but equally important set of mathematical capabilities.

“Mathematics is not only a set of technical tools, important as those are. It is also about choosing which tools to use, understanding what the results are telling you, and applying what you know to a situation you have not encountered before.

“That ability to transfer knowledge between contexts is a sophisticated skill. It requires robust number-sense, the confidence to tackle unfamiliar problems, and the judgement to recognise whether an answer is reasonable.”

Applications of Mathematics develops skills that are relevant to a wide range of further study and careers, including social sciences, nursing, financial services and other fields where people must interpret evidence, understand risk, work with data and make sound judgements under pressure.

These capabilities are not simply about making mathematics more accessible. They are about equipping learners to use it effectively in the situations they will encounter beyond the classroom.

The qualification also develops practical capabilities such as mathematical modelling, project planning, data analysis and the use of spreadsheets and statistical software - skills relevant across sectors, including financial services and healthcare.

Applications is part of Scottish Enlightenment tradition

The ability to assess whether a mathematical result makes sense is becoming particularly important in our rapidly changing world and as artificial intelligence tools become more widely used.

Pritchard said:

“As workers, as consumers, and most of all as citizens, our world is shaped by the use and misuse of numbers. We need people who can look at numerical statements, and ask: does this make sense?

Can you recognise when the assumptions are wrong, when the numbers are implausible, or when a claim simply doesn't follow from the evidence? 

Can you apply what you know to test an answer rather than accepting it because it looks authoritative? We need people with the mathematical skills and confidence to see when the numbers don't add up, and to ask, why?

Higher Applications of Mathematics sits solidly in the Scottish Enlightenment tradition of “useful knowledge”. We need maths used critically, the way history or English or science might be used to interrogate the world around us and the claims people make about it. Applications of Mathematics helps develop that critical ability.”

Broadening participation in mathematics

The Institute’s research highlights the importance of connecting education with the skills people need throughout their lives. Applications of Mathematics offers an example of how curriculum design can broaden opportunities while maintaining meaningful academic challenge.

Susan Murray, Director of the David Hume Institute, said:

“The growth of Applications of Mathematics is an important development in Scottish education. It shows that there is a real appetite for mathematical learning that connects with the world young people inhabit and the futures they want to pursue.

“The ability to apply mathematical knowledge, interpret data and make sound judgements is essential for further study, employment and everyday life.

“As the economy changes and AI becomes more prevalent, these skills will become even more important. We need to ensure that parents, employers, universities and policymakers understand the value of Applications of Mathematics and the capabilities it develops.

“As Scotland considers how best to prepare young people for further education and a changing labour market, Applications of Mathematics provides an important example of how mathematical education in school is evolving to meet demand.

About Dr David Pritchard

Dr David Pritchard was born in Edinburgh and attended Balerno High School before studying mathematics at King’s College, University of Cambridge.  He completed a PhD and postdoctoral research at the University of Bristol and the University of Cambridge. His academic research focused on applied mathematics, particularly environmental and geological fluid dynamics, sediment transport, non-Newtonian fluids and processes in porous media.

He joined the University of Strathclyde’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics in 2006. Alongside his university teaching, which includes teaching Mathematics and society, David has made a substantial contribution to the development of school mathematics education in Scotland. 

Following his work on Higher Applications of Mathematics, he led a Scottish Funding Council-supported professional development module in mathematical modelling to help teachers prepare to deliver the new qualification. He has also contributed to online mathematics resources through the SCHOLAR project.

David’s work reflects a strong commitment to presenting mathematics as a discipline of reasoning, problem-solving and practical application. He believes that mathematical education should equip learners not only to perform calculations, but also to apply knowledge in unfamiliar contexts, interpret quantitative information and judge whether results make sense. His work on Applications of Mathematics has sought to broaden the mathematical opportunities available to young people while ensuring that the qualification maintains the academic rigour and standing of a Higher in its own right.

His wider contribution to mathematics education includes serving as Convenor of the Edinburgh Mathematical Society’s Education Committee from 2011 to 2015, representing the Society on the Joint Mathematical Council of the UK from 2014 to 2019, and serving as a trustee of the Council from 2017 to 2019. He was also a member of the Scottish Mathematical Council from 2015 to 2021 and contributed to the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Learned Societies’ Group on Scottish STEM Education.

David has extensive experience in mathematical outreach and enrichment, including work with the UK Mathematics Trust’s Mathematical Circles, the Scottish Mathematical Challenge and Techfest-SetPoint’s Maths in the Pipeline programme. Across these activities, he has championed approaches that help young people experience mathematics as an engaging process of discovery and problem-solving.

His combination of mathematical expertise, university teaching experience, curriculum design and sustained engagement with teachers and professional bodies gives him a distinctive perspective on how Scotland can develop mathematical capability, strengthen pathways through education and help learners use mathematics confidently in further study, employment and everyday life.

Scotland’s Budget: Focus on What Spending Delivers, Not Just How Much It Costs

The David Hume Institute has called for a more strategic approach to Scotland’s economic spending, arguing that public investment must be judged by the economic capacity it creates, not simply the amount of money spent.

In its submission to the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Tourism and Energy Committee’s pre-Budget scrutiny for 2027–28, the Institute argues that constrained public finances make it more important than ever to prioritise investment that strengthens productivity, encourages business investment and innovation, supports employment and improves living standards.

With public spending under pressure and funding for the economy, tourism and energy portfolios expected to fall in real terms, the Institute argues that across-the-board reductions risk overlooking investments that could deliver significant long-term benefits.

Instead, the Government should assess major programmes against clear criteria: what problem are they intended to solve, why is public intervention necessary, what would happen without it, and what lasting economic benefits will they generate?

The submission identifies five priorities:

• Improving productivity and business investment

• Developing infrastructure that enables economic activity

• Making better use of people’s skills

• Strengthening innovation and economic resilience

• Ensuring Scotland’s energy transition creates lasting benefits for domestic businesses and workers.

It also calls for a more rigorous approach to evaluating public spending. Counting businesses supported, projects delivered or visitors attracted tells only part of the story. Policymakers must also establish what changed as a result of spending, whether benefits would have occurred anyway, and how much economic value was retained in Scotland.

Crucially, the Institute argues that economic performance cannot be considered in isolation from other policy areas. Housing, transport, skills, financial wellbeing, energy and planning all influence productivity and investment.

The submission’s central message is that Scotland needs a longer-term perspective on public finances, recognising the trade-offs between immediate spending pressures and investments whose benefits may take years to emerge.

As the Institute concludes, the question for Scotland’s 2027–28 Budget should not simply be how much the country can afford to spend, but what can Scotland afford not to invest in?

Rapid growth of learners in Scotland embracing real world skills

Attainment in National Progression Awards has more than doubled since 2022, prompting calls for more awareness about new qualifications.

Wednesday 23rd September 2026

A new briefing from The David Hume Institute shows a significant shift in how learners in Scotland build practical work-ready skills alongside traditional exams. 

The paper, “The Changing Landscape of Education in Scotland: A New National Progression?” reveals that attainment of National Progression Awards (NPAs) - qualifications typically assessed continuously throughout the year rather than in a final high stakes exam, has more than doubled from 19,640 in 2022 to 44,0303 in 2026. 

NPAs now span more than 267 subject areas including cyber security, data science, sports leadership and health care. They are increasingly being delivered in-house by secondary schools across Scotland to broaden choices and learning in the senior phase. 

This growth reflects the recommendations of the Hayward Review which was commissioned by the Scottish Government and published in 2023.  The trend mirrors that in other countries highlighted in the OECD’s 2026 report, A Skills First Labour Market which calls on education systems across the globe to focus on practical, transferable skills that directly support employability and economic opportunity. 

Susan Murray, Director of the David Hume Institute, said:

“The rapid growth of National Progression Awards means thousands more young people are now gaining skills and qualifications through a different model of learning and assessment, often alongside traditional National 5s and Highers. 

“This is a significant change that more people, especially employers, need to understand. NPAs are helping develop practical skills and are part of the changing education landscape in Scotland. This development seems to have gone largely unnoticed in public discussion about education and youth employment in a rapidly changing jobs market.

“Continuing to develop NPAs raises important questions about how we recognise skills, how we design the senior phase and how qualifications connect young people with continuing education and employment.”

The new briefing identifies curriculum flexibility, the growing relevance of practical and job-ready skills, and increased delivery of NPAs directly within secondary schools as factors behind their growth.

The briefing also highlights challenges accompanying the expansion of NPAs. Access to particular subjects varies across Scotland, while employers and recruiters will need to understand an increasingly diverse qualifications landscape. Schools and colleges are using approaches such as cluster-school provision, college partnerships and online tutoring to broaden access.

The growth of National Progression Awards is highly relevant to the upcoming Milburn Review publication because it shows that changes to how young people develop skills, are assessed and connected to future jobs are already underway in Scotland.

Susan Murray, Director of The David Hume Institute added

“The Milburn Review is considering how we can better prepare more young people for further education, employment and a changing labour market. NPAs provide an important part of the jigsaw in Scotland, with a focus on practical skills with standards set by trade and professional bodies.

“This development should not be overlooked. Whatever conclusions the Milburn Review reaches, it is important to understand the rapid change already underway in Scottish schools.”

Quotes from the briefing

Mr Meikle, Headteacher at Craigmount High School said:

“Our school delivers a wide range of NPAs both in-house and in partnership with the local college. Last year pupils at Craigmount achieved over 4000 qualifications - 7% were NPAs and 176 were Level 6 NPAs.

“NPA courses are popular with pupils because they can see their progress with regular assessment and choose subjects directly related to careers they wish to pursue or new subjects that interest them.  Subjects range from business and marketing to web design and cyber security, and give a good grounding in developing skills required for life after school.”

A 2026 NPA Student said:

“I did mainly Nat 5's, and one NPA. Doing the NPA was just as much work, but it was spread out more during the year, so I had one less subject to worry about at exam time. I really enjoyed the NPA, partly because I liked the subject, and also because you could really get into something rather than constantly revising previous topics for an exam at the end of the year so I got really immersed in it.“ 

A 2026 NPA Parent said:

“My son chose an NPA because he was interested in the subject, rather than because it was an NPA. But being an NPA was a real positive. The work was assessed during the year, which felt much fairer than basing the assessment on one exam at the end. And it reduced the pressure a bit, when he was sitting his Nat 5 exams, as he had one less to revise for.”

Thumbnail photo credit: X on Unsplash, downloaded free on 17.9.26

New Research reveals Housing Associations are Overlooked “Economic Anchors”

Published: 2nd September 2026

Call for housing associations to be treated by government as economic infrastructure and for the full economic return on housing investment to be measured.

Scotland’s housing associations are much more than providers of social housing: they are substantial economic organisations that employ people, invest billions, support businesses and supply chains, regenerate communities, facilitate labour market change and reduce pressures on other public services.

The new independent research by the David Hume InstituteThe Story so Far: Housing Associations and the Scottish Economy, was authored by internationally renowned housing economist Professor Duncan Maclennan and Dr Andrew Robert Watson.  Commissioned by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA), the research argues that the economic contribution of the sector is significant but remains largely invisible because it is not measured consistently.

The report says SFHA members alone have approximately £2.27 billion in turnover, £1.80 billion in operating expenditure and £579 million in staff costs – and these headline figures understate the sector’s wider economic footprint, which extends through contractors, suppliers and employee spending as well as the productivity benefits that flow from good, well-located housing.

The report describes housing associations as “anchor institutions” - longterm organisations rooted in the communities they serve, with the ability to own assets, employ people, procure locally and invest over many years. Their economic role extends into regeneration, community facilities, commercial workspace, apprenticeships, employability, local procurement, social enterprise, welfare advice, tenancy sustainment, specialist housing, care and support, and energy investment. All in addition to the health and human capital gains that flow from a better housed population.

Professor Duncan Maclennan, author of the report, said:

“Housing associations are routinely described as social landlords. That description is true, but it misses a large part of the story. They are economic institutions embedded in the places they serve. They employ, invest, procure, build, regenerate and help people to develop skills and participate in the economy.

“The striking finding is not that this economic value routinely exists, but that we do not yet count enough of it. If Government looks only at the immediate cost of housing investment, it risks missing the wider economic return – and the costs that good housing can prevent elsewhere.” Too often associations and their impacts, with some important exceptions in rural Scotland, are missing in the discussions of Scotland’s Regional Economic Partnerships and more local economic development initiatives. That has to change.”

The report argues that good housing can reduce pressure on public services by helping to prevent homelessness, ill health, financial insecurity, educational disadvantage and social isolation, while supporting people to remain independent. Housing associations already undertake substantial preventative work, but the economic value of that work is not sufficiently measured.

It also highlights the distinctive economic contribution of housing associations as not-for-profit organisations. Economic value generated through their activities can be retained and reinvested in homes, services and communities rather than distributed to shareholders. Where spending is retained locally, this can strengthen local economies.

Richard Meade, Chief Executive of SFHA, said:

“Housing associations have always been about far more than bricks and mortar. This research shows just how much our members contribute to Scotland's economy, as major employers, as investors of billions, and as anchor institutions rooted in the communities they serve. For too long that contribution has gone largely unmeasured, and therefore unrecognised.

We commissioned this work because the case for investing in housing is an economic one as much as a social one. We are calling on government and regional economic bodies to treat social housing as critical economic infrastructure, to recognise housing associations as genuine economic partners, and to measure the full return on housing investment. We also accept the challenge the report sets for our own sector, to be more confident in telling our economic story, and to build the evidence that proves it.”

The economic case is not yet being measured

The report identifies a significant gap between the economic activity housing associations undertake and the evidence available to demonstrate its full impact.

Individual associations already measure aspects such as local procurement, employment, apprenticeships, tenant financial gains and community benefits. But there is no consistent framework for aggregating this information and understanding the sector’s full economic contribution.

The report calls for this cycle to be broken, arguing that Government should:

• Recognise housing associations as economic partners in local and regional economic development

• Treat housing as economic infrastructure, alongside transport, skills, digital infrastructure and business investment

• Measure the full return on housing investment, including employment, supply chains, productivity, household income, regeneration and public-sector cost avoidance

• Establish how much economic activity housing association spending generates and how much is retained locally

• Recognise the not-for-profit advantage of retaining and reinvesting economic value and

• Consider the cost of not investing, as well as the immediate cost of investment.

The report also challenges the sector itself to become more confident in describing its role as an economic one, and to systematically measure its local employment, procurement, skills, tenant income, economic circulation, regeneration and preventative public-service impacts.

Professor Maclennan said:

“It is always important to know what housing costs, and we do, but we also need to know the benefits these investments create for the long term and presently we don’t”

The report concludes that the economic case for housing associations is not an addition to their social purpose but integral to it.

Susan Murray, Director of the David Hume Institute said “

“At a time when public finances are under enormous pressure, every pound of public investment has to be understood in terms of the value it creates. This report makes a strong case that housing investment should be judged on its full return, not simply its headline cost.

“The message for Government is straightforward: housing is part of Scotland’s economic infrastructure. The housing association sector is already creating economic value. By investing in it, you get much more bang for your buck. Now we need to measure the full impact, recognise it in policy and investment decisions, and make sure Scotland gets the full benefit.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

• The Story so Far: Housing Associations and the Economy was commissioned by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations from The David Hume Institute and authored by Professor Duncan Maclennan and Dr Andrew Robert Watson.

• The research uses a mixed-methods approach, combining regulatory and financial data alongside a survey of SFHA members, group and one-to-one interviews.

• The report does not claim to provide a single definitive estimate of the total economic impact of Scotland’s housing associations. Its purpose is to identify the components of that contribution and lay the foundations for a stronger, evidence-based economic narrative.

Key figures

• £2.27bn – approximate turnover of SFHA members

• £1.80bn – approximate operating expenditure

• £579m – approximate staff costs

• Housing associations’ economic impacts operate at direct, indirect and induced levels.
  
  

About the David Hume Institute

The David Hume Institute is an independent research institute with a mission to improve understanding of the economy in Scotland. DHI undertakes research and hosts public events to encourage discussion about the economy and society. 

About Scottish Federation of Housing Associations 

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) is the collective voice for housing associations and co-operatives in Scotland, providing safe, warm affordable homes for over half a million people and employing over 13,000 people. Housing associations were built in and by communities across Scotland and continue to exist to make lives and places better. Beyond simply providing an affordable rent, they support tenants with a range of needs in every constituency.

Cost of Living Continues to Keep Scots' Awake at Night

23rd August 2026

Tracker survey reveals financial strain is impacting people's daily lives, leisure activities and health.

The ongoing cost of living squeeze remains a dominant issue for Scots. According to the latest Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker, almost half (47%) identify inflation and living costs as one of the most important issues facing the country for a second consecutive quarter.

The latest findings suggest an increasingly anxious public where financial strain is directly impacting daily life, leisure and health. 

Other key findings include:

• More than two-thirds of Scots who expressed an opinion (68%) say the economy is worse than it was a year ago.

• A similar proportion (67%) expect economic conditions to worsen over the next 12 months.

• Only around a quarter of Scots (24%) believe things in Scotland are heading in the right direction.

The survey also highlights how economic pressure is shaping everyday behaviour across Scotland:

• More than half of respondents (52%) say they have reduced non-essential spending because of concerns about money matters.

• Half (51%) say they have cut back on leisure activities.

• Four in ten Scots (40%) say they have dipped into savings to meet higher costs.

• Three in ten say concerns about money have affected their mental health (30%) or caused them to lose sleep (29%).

The findings point to continued pressure on household finances, with large numbers of Scots changing spending habits and making difficult financial choices in response to rising costs.

The majority of Scots remain broadly positive about aspects of employment, attitudes towards income and living standards are markedly less positive:

• Nearly three-quarters of Scots (73%) are satisfied that their employment provides enough paid hours.

• Two-thirds (66%) are satisfied with their job security.

• However, just 37% are satisfied with their income level.

• Almost half (49%) are dissatisfied with how well their income covers the cost of living.

While cost of living pressures remain dominant, the survey points to a shifting set of public priorities.

Immigration has risen to a record high for the series, with one in four Scots (25%) identifying it as one of the country's most important issues. The proportion highlighting social care as a key issue has increased to 13%, its highest level since the earliest wave of Understanding Scotland in 2021, while the environment and climate change has also risen sharply to 13%, its highest level since late 2023.

Meanwhile, the proportion identifying healthcare and the NHS as one of Scotland's most important issues has fallen seven percentage points since May down to 40% or four in ten - its lowest level since January 2022.

Scott Edgar, Head of Analysis and Insights, The Diffley Partnership: 

“The cost of living remains the defining issue for Scots, and the findings suggest financial pressures continue to shape both public priorities and everyday behaviour.

While economic sentiment has become slightly less negative since May, large majorities still believe economic conditions are worsening and expect further deterioration over the coming year.

At the same time, we are seeing the public agenda broaden. Alongside concerns about household finances, issues such as immigration, social care and climate change are becoming more prominent, reflecting a public that is responding both to events happening in Scotland and across the UK.”

Susan Murray, Director, David Hume Institute:

“This survey continues to show a ticking time bomb for those under financial strain as they struggle to make ends meet. A significant proportion of people are forced into behaviours that will have a detrimental effect on their long term health. 

Any government talking about economic growth needs to remember a tired and stressed workforce is not good for productivity or the labour market.”

The Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker surveyed 2,186 adults across Scotland between 2 and 5 August 2026.  The survey has been tracking public opinion and behaviour on the Scottish Economy since October 2021.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Designed by the Diffley Partnership and the David Hume Institute, the survey received 2,186 responses from a representative sample of the adult population, aged 16+, across Scotland. Invitations were issued online using the ScotPulse panel, and fieldwork was conducted between the 2nd and 5th August 2026. Results are weighted to the Scottish population (2024 estimates) by age and gender. 

Practical Maths opens doors to higher education for Scottish pupils this results day

4th August 2026

As thousands of young people across Scotland receive their exam results today, new figures highlight how Applications of Maths qualifications continue to open doors that lack of traditional maths once blocked.

As the national #NoWrongPath campaign celebrates the diverse routes young people can take to achieve their goals, new data released today by Qualifications Scotland underlines the important role played by the new Applications of Mathematics qualifications at National 5 and Higher levels in widening access to higher education and future employment.

Today, new figures show that entries into Applications of Mathematics are continuing to increase. The National 5 qualification has grown signifcantly from 4,460 entries in 2019 to 30,045 in 2026. In Higher Applications of Mathematics there was an increase in the number of entries from only 868 entries in 2022 to 7,025 in 2026.

Traditional, “more abstract”, mathematics courses have historically been a stumbling block for some otherwise capable pupils, in some cases even preventing them from fulfilling university entry requirements. The Applications of Mathematics curriculum offers a new way of learning about maths focusing on practical, real-world skills like budgeting, taxation and data analysis.

The David Hume Institute has published a briefing which reveals how the course is increasing uptake of mathematics, whilst serving as a vital bridge into higher education and work for pupils who previously struggled with algebra and theoretical maths.

Opening Doors to Higher Education

For many pupils, achieving a pass in National 5 or Higher Applications of Mathematics is the key that unlocks their choices at college, university or apprenticeship.

Abi, a 2026 University Graduate, shared how the qualification changed her career trajectory:

“I have just graduated with a degree in Community Education. I struggled with traditional maths at Nat 5 but Apps helped me develop skills I needed for university, and life.  Without Applications of Maths I wouldn't have been eligible for the course.  It really is a much needed bridge for young people like me.”

Susan Murray, Director of the David Hume Institute, said:

“Results Day brings a mix of excitement and trepidation. The new Applications of Mathematics curriculum is expanding the pathways to success by giving more young people practical, usable skills for life and work. The relevance of real world maths encourages perseverance ensuring a struggle with abstract algebra does not keep talented young people out of university or the workforce.”

Preparing Young People for the Real World

The new qualification directly aligns with the ethos of #NoWrongPath by recognising that employers and higher education institutions are increasingly placing more value on practical skills such as financial literacy and data handling.

Johnny Timpson, Commissioner, Financial Inclusion Commission said:

"I’m hugely supportive of the development of the Applications of Mathematics curriculum. Stronger financial capability is key to improving people's career opportunities and is also linked to improved well being and resilience to shocks for people of all ages." 

Leon Ward, Chief Executive of charity Money Ready, said:

“This is the kind of content that financial literacy advocates have been arguing should be embedded in the curriculum for years.” 

David McCulloch, High School Mathematics Teacher said:

"As a teacher, we regularly have conversations with young people and their families about N5 and Higher Apps.  There are key skills in the Higher course which are very relevant to careers in financial services such as mathematical modelling, project planning and the use of Excel and statistical software." 

Looking Ahead

As the conversation continues at a national level around education reform and attainment gaps, evidence suggests that the Applications of Mathematics curriculum is increasing opportunities for learning to be connected with real world opportunities. 

The David Hume Institute recognises the need for greater awareness of the qualification among young people, parents, employers, universities and policymakers. While Applications of Mathematics is now well established in schools, many outside education remain unfamiliar with the qualification and the opportunities it provides for learners.

• ENDS - 

Sharing thumbnail image credit: Photo by Aaron Lefler free from Unsplash 3 August 2026

New briefing reveals growth in maths education in Scotland

24th July 2026

Sixfold increase in entries suggests the new maths qualification is attracting thousands more young people into mathematics

A new briefing paper, published by the David Hume Institute, reveals that Scotland's National 5 Applications of Mathematics qualification has experienced extraordinary growth. Since its introduction in 2019, entries increased sixfold in six years and it is helping drive a significant rise in the number of young people studying mathematics.

National 5 Entries into Mathematics and Applications of mathematics

The briefing, Applications of Mathematics: A Revolution in Maths Education in Scotland? shows that National 5 Applications of Mathematics entries rose from 4,460 in 2019 to 27,655 in 2025. 

The qualification is now the third most popular National 5 examination in Scotland, behind only English and traditional Mathematics. Together, Applications of Mathematics and traditional Mathematics have contributed to an increase of over a third in the number of pupils taking a National 5 maths qualification.

The paper argues that the qualification represents an important innovation in Scottish education by focusing on practical mathematical skills that young people use in everyday life - including budgeting, taxation, personal finance, loans, interest rates and interpreting data - while also supporting the skills increasingly sought by employers in sectors such as financial services and data science.

Young people who spoke to the David Hume Institute as part of the research said:

• “I like Maths Apps because I can see why I need it in the real world.” High School Student

• “I hated algebra and normal maths but Applications of Maths feels like stuff I’ll need in my life.” High School Student

Overall participation in mathematics has increased by more than a third and rather than replacing traditional mathematics, the evidence suggests the qualification is broadening participation. Some pupils are choosing to study both qualifications at National 5.

There has also been a rapid growth in Higher Applications of Mathematics since its introduction in 2022 - from 868 entries in 2022 to 4,682 in 2025 - demonstrating increasing demand for the qualification that combines mathematical reasoning with practical statistical and financial skills.

Susan Murray, Director of the David Hume Institute, said:

"Applications of Mathematics is an important development which is rapidly growing the number of people studying maths. The practical mathematical skills are helping equip more young people with the skills they need for modern life and work.

“From our past research on The Great Risk Transfer we know how important financial literacy is throughout our lives. This new curriculum helps develop those much needed skills." 

Johnny Timpson, Commissioner, Financial Inclusion Commission said

"I’m hugely supportive of the development of the Applications of Mathematics curriculum. Stronger financial capability is key to improving people's career opportunities and is also linked to improved well being and resilience to shocks for people of all ages" 

Leon Ward, Chief Executive of charity Money Ready, said:

“This is the kind of content that financial literacy advocates have been arguing should be embedded in the curriculum for years.” 

The briefing also draws attention to the need for greater awareness of the qualification among parents, employers, universities and policymakers. While Applications of Mathematics is now well established in schools, many outside education remain unfamiliar with the qualification and the opportunities it provides for learners.

David McCulloch, High School Mathematics Teacher said:

"As a teacher, we regularly have conversations with young people and their families about N5 and Higher Apps.  There are key skills in the Higher course which are very relevant to careers in financial services such as mathematical modelling, project planning and the use of Excel and statistical software." 

Abi, 2026 Graduate said:

"I have just graduated with a degree in Community Education. I struggled with traditional maths at Nat 5 but Apps helped me develop skills I needed for university, and life.  Without Applications of Maths I wouldn't have been eligible for the course.  It really is a much needed bridge for young people like me.“ 

As conversations continue around financial literacy, workforce skills and curriculum reform, the paper concludes that Applications of Mathematics offers an important piece of the jigsaw for how education can better connect classroom learning with real-world challenges and future employment.

• ENDS - 

Sharing thumbnail image credit: Photo by Ben Mullins free from Unsplash 23 July 2026

Cost of Living Dislodges the NHS as Scots’ Top Concern

25th May 2026

Tracker survey shows economic worries worsen as Scots fear further rises in cost of living 

The cost of living has overtaken healthcare and the NHS as the single biggest concern facing Scots for the first time in nearly three years, according to the latest Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker.

The quarterly survey, produced by The David Hume Institute with the Diffley Partnership paints an increasingly downbeat picture of Scotland’s economic mood following the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.

Key findings include:

• Almost one in two Scots (47%) now rank the cost of living and inflation among the top issues facing the country. 

• More than three in four Scots who expressed an opinion (77%) say the economy is worse than a year ago, up sharply from around three in five (62%) in February, while a similar proportion (73%) expect economic conditions to deteriorate further over the next 12 months.

• Despite this collapse in economic sentiment, three in ten Scots (30%) now think the country is heading in the right direction, up notably since November 2025 (22%).

The findings suggest household financial pressures are once again dominating Scots attitudes, despite easing inflation headlines and political change at Holyrood. 

The survey also highlights how economic pressure is shaping everyday behaviour across Scotland:

• More than half of respondents (54%) say they have cut back on leisure activities because of concerns about money matters.

• A similar proportion (52%) say they have reduced non-essential spending.

• More than two in five Scots (41%) say they have dipped into savings to cope with rising costs.

The findings point to growing pressure on consumer confidence and household resilience - a significant concern for Scotland’s wider economy given the importance of consumer spending to the economy.

The report also identifies warning signs emerging in the labour market and housing affordability:

• Less than half of Scots (43%) are confident they could find a new job within three months if necessary, a decrease of four percentage points from last May (47%).

• Six in ten people (61%) say they are confident they could cope with higher housing costs over the next six months - down compared to last year.

The findings highlight the difficult economic backdrop faced by the country as it begins the new parliamentary term, with public expectations increasingly focused on living standards, wages and household financial security rather than constitutional debate.

The survey also highlights continued support for preventative approaches to tackling economic hardship:

• Nearly four in five Scots (78%) agree it costs the public purse more in the long run when people cannot meet their basic needs today.

• More than two thirds (68%) agree there is a collective responsibility to ensure a safety net during hard economic times.

Scott Edgar, Senior Research Manager, The Diffley Partnership: 

“Coming just after the Scottish Parliament election, these findings underline the scale of the economic challenge facing the new Parliament. While there has been a modest improvement in how people feel about the country’s direction, that sits alongside a much more pessimistic view of the economy and living standards.

The cost of living is the defining issue for Scots, overtaking the NHS as the top concern, and shaping how people are managing their day-to-day lives. 

The task now for decision-makers is to rebuild confidence at a time when financial pressures remain entrenched and expectations for the future are increasingly fragile.”

Susan Murray, Director, The David Hume Institute:

“Consumer confidence is fundamental to a thriving economy. When people are cutting back on leisure activities, reducing non-essential spending and dipping into savings to cover everyday costs, that has a direct impact on the wider economy, investment and local communities.

“The challenge for Scotland’s political and business leaders now is to rebuild confidence at a time when public pessimism about the economy and rising cost of living is deepening and expectations for the future are becoming increasingly fragile.”

The Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker surveyed 2,170 adults across Scotland between 11 and 15 May 2026.  The survey has been tracking public opinion and behaviour on the Scottish Economy since October 2021.

ENDS

 Notes

• Designed by the Diffley Partnership and the David Hume Institute, the survey received 2,170 responses from a representative sample of the adult population, aged 16+, across Scotland. Invitations were issued online using the ScotPulse panel, and fieldwork was conducted between the 11th and 15th May 2026. Results are weighted to the Scottish population (2024 estimates) by age and gender. 

Sad news about former Director Jeremy Peat

We were saddened to hear that former Director, Jeremy Peat passed away recently. Our thoughts are with his wife Philippa and his family at this sad time.

Civil Litigation Hokey Cokey - Why This “Small Change” Could Carry Big Economic Risks for Scotland

22nd April 2026

At first glance, it might look like a minor procedural tweak — a minor bit of legal “hokey cokey”. A switch from opt-in to opt-out in civil litigation. In, out, to shake it all about.

Photo credit: Pierre Goiffon free licence on Unsplash 22.4.26

But this is not an incidental change. It has the potential to reshape Scotland’s legal and economic landscape in ways that deserve far more scrutiny than it is currently getting.

A change that could slip through unnoticed.

Early in the next Scottish Parliamentary term, this issue is likely to land on the desks of newly elected MSPs — possibly as a Scottish Statutory Instrument. That matters, because such instruments can become law quickly, with limited debate.

At a time when many MSPs will be new to Parliament, hiring staff and navigating steep learning curves, there is a real risk this proposal gets dismissed as a technical adjustment.

It isn’t. It is a structural shift with far-reaching consequences.

What’s actually being proposed?

The Scottish Civil Justice Council is exploring changes to group proceedings under the Civil Litigation (Expenses and Group Proceedings) (Scotland) Act 2018.

At the heart of this is a move toward a US-style opt-out model for class actions.

Currently, individuals must actively choose (opt in) to be part of a group legal claim. Under the proposed system, people would automatically be included unless they take action to opt out.

That might sound consumer-friendly — more people included, more access to justice. But the reality is far more complicated.

Why it matters: scale changes everything

An opt-out system dramatically increases the scale of litigation. Suddenly, claims can encompass hundreds of thousands — even millions — of people, most of whom will not even know they are part of a case.

This creates a very different legal ecosystem — one that critics argue risks prioritising volume over value, and process over outcomes.

The concern: who really benefits?

Supporters frame mass litigation as a tool for consumer justice. But growing evidence from other jurisdictions suggests the biggest winners are often not consumers — but lawyers and litigation funders.

These cases are typically financed by third-party funders, many of them offshore investment vehicles. Their returns come from a share of settlements or damages.

That raises a critical question:

• how much of any compensation actually reaches consumers — and how much is extracted along the way?

As Seema Kennedy from Fair Civil Justice puts it:

“Large mass legal cases claim to provide access to justice for consumers… But they only work if they deliver the intended results — and increasingly the evidence suggests that they are not working.”

Even under “no-win, no-fee” arrangements, consumers ultimately pay — through deductions from settlements and damages.  Research in the US shows the average percentage of settlements reaching the consumer is less than 10%. 

A system with limited transparency

One of the more troubling aspects is the lack of oversight or regulation in the litigation funding sector.

Consumers often:

●      Lack clear information about risks

●      Sign confidentiality agreements

●      Have limited visibility of who is funding their case and on what terms

When things go wrong, the consequences can be severe — as seen in past scandals where claimants were left exposed to unexpected legal costs.

This is not a theoretical risk. It is a practical one.

Economic consequences: beyond the courtroom

The implications extend well beyond individual claims.

Business groups have long warned that introducing US-style mass litigation could:

●      Deter inward investment

●      Increase the cost of doing business

●      Divert capital away from innovation, jobs, and growth

Colin Hutton, of International law firm CMS describes the proposal as:

“The most significant development in Scottish civil litigation in decades… with implications that reach far beyond the courtroom.”

International comparisons reinforce the concerns. Evidence from countries such as Portugal and the Netherlands suggests opt-out regimes can trigger a surge in litigation — often targeting the public sector as well as private companies.

The risk of becoming a litigation outlier

If Scotland adopts this model while other parts of the UK take a more cautious approach, it risks becoming a legal outlier.

That matters for competitiveness.

Global businesses — which bring jobs, tax revenue, and investment — factor legal risk into decisions about where to operate. A more litigious environment increases uncertainty and cost.

Over time, that can shift investment elsewhere.

The cost to the wider economy

The broader economic impact could be significant.

Research from the European Centre for International Political Economy warns that unchecked growth in mass litigation could cost the UK economy up to £18 billion.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are particularly exposed:

●      They lack the resources to absorb prolonged legal battles

●      They may settle weak claims simply to avoid costs

●      Capital is diverted from growth into legal defence

In the United States — often cited as a cautionary example — SMEs bear more than half the cost of litigation, amounting to hundreds of billions annually.

More litigation ≠ better outcomes

There is a broader policy question here.

More litigation does not necessarily mean better consumer outcomes. In many cases, it leads to:

●      Higher prices (as businesses pass on legal costs)

●      Slower access to redress

●      Overburdened courts

If the goal is to improve consumer protection, there may be more effective routes:

●      Stronger regulation

●      Better ombudsman services

●      Faster, more accessible complaints systems

A decision that deserves attention

This is not just a legal technicality. It is a decision about the kind of economy Scotland wants.

An opt-out system could:

●      Expand access to claims — but dilute individual benefit

●      Attract large-scale litigation — but deter business investment

●      Promise consumer justice — but shift value to offshore funders

That is why this “hokey cokey” matters.

Because once Scotland steps into this model, stepping back may not be so easy.

---

The David Hume Institute is partnering on an event in June to discuss this further with CMS, CBI Scotland, Fraser of Allander Institute and Fair Civil Justice. 

New to this subject?

• Listen to BBC Radio 4, File on 4 Investigates: No Win No Fee… No thanks?
  

Sharing thumbnail image credit: Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm downloaded free from Unsplash on 22.4.26

New Chair announced as Scotland faces “significant long-term challenges”

21st April 2025

The David Hume Institute announced Professor Paul Atkinson as its new Chair, at a time when Scotland faces growing economic and policy challenges.

Professor Atkinson takes office on 1st May succeeding Professor Jan Bebbington and Liz Ditchburn CB, who step down as Co-Chairs following a period of significant contribution to the Institute’s work.

His appointment comes at a pivotal moment, with increasing pressure on Scotland’s economy, public services and long-term policy challenges - issues that sit at the heart of the DHI’s work.

Professor Atkinson brings extensive experience across investment, entrepreneurship and public interest leadership. He is Co-Founder and Partner at Par Equity, now PXN Group, a leading UK investment firm, and holds a number of senior governance roles across business and the non-profit sector.

He also currently serves as Chair of the Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland and the Scottish Forestry Trust, reflecting a strong commitment to public purpose alongside commercial expertise.

“This is a moment where evidence-led debate really matters”

Commenting on his appointment, Paul Atkinson said:

“I am honoured to be taking on the role of Chair of the David Hume Institute.

It is a genuinely distinctive organisation with a long-standing reputation for independence, intellectual rigour, and constructive engagement with complex policy questions. 

At a time when Scotland faces significant long-term challenges, the Institute’s commitment to thoughtful, evidence-led debate has never been more important. I look forward to working with the Board and the wider team to strengthen this vital work.”

Outgoing Co-Chair Professor Jan Bebbington reflected on her time in the role:

“It has been a privilege to be a trustee and Co-Chair of such a prestigious and influential organisation. 

The David Hume Institute plays a crucial role in Scotland’s civic and policy landscape, and I am immensely proud of what has been achieved during my tenure. 

I am delighted to be handing over to Paul, whose experience, values, and commitment to public purpose make him an excellent choice to lead the Institute into its next chapter.  I remain committed to the Institute as I take on a new role as an advisor”

Supporting understanding of Scotland’s economy and society

The David Hume Institute works to encourage informed debate through independent research and analysis, helping people better understand Scotland’s economy, public policy and society.

Professor Atkinson’s appointment marks the start of a new chapter in the Institute’s forty year history, as it continues to support discussion and decision-making on some of the most pressing issues facing Scotland today.

Susan Murray, Director of The David Hume Institute commented:

“It has been wonderful working with Jan and Liz as Co-Chairs over the last few years and I’d like to thank them for all their hard work. 

It is fantastic to welcome Paul to the role of Chair as he brings such energy, enthusiasm and a breadth of knowledge that will help guide us in the years ahead.”

ENDS

New research to reveal housing associations’ roles in improving Scotland’s economic performance

8th April 2026

SFHA commission new research from Professor Duncan Maclennan and the David Hume Institute to better understand the sector’s impact on the Scottish economy.

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has commissioned research from the David Hume Institute and global housing expert, Professor Duncan Maclennan to better understand the contribution of housing associations to Scotland’s economy.

The research, titled Beyond bricks and mortar: Recognising housing associations’ role in Scotland’s economyseeks to evidence the impact of housing associations as a national driver of fairer and faster economic growth.

Professor Maclennan is an applied economist specialising in housing, neighbourhoods and cities with his professional background involving both senior academic and policy roles in Australia, Canada and the UK.

His recent work has advocated for a whole system approach, recognising the economic drivers and adverse consequences of poor housing outcomes, to tackling the housing polycrisis. This includes a major report he authored with the David Hume Institute last year titled Prosperity Begins At Home. The report had argued for a radical shift in the understanding of housing as just a social issue to instead be recognised as a critical economic infrastructure shaping jobs, economic growth and environment. 

The new research commissioned by SFHA is due to report later this year and will build on the themes of the Prosperity Begins At Home report. 

As part of the research, SFHA member housing associations will shortly receive a survey to share their insights into the scale and economic reach of their organisation.  Professor Maclennan will use these insights along with other research on how housing outcomes impact health, education and accessibility to jobs in ways that shape growth and productivity.

The aim of outlining the full contribution of housing associations to Scotland’s economy comes as the country is set to go to the polls for May’s Scottish Parliament election. The research findings will provide an opportunity for elected MSPs to understand the full scale and reach of Scotland’s housing associations as a driver for economic growth and productivity. Abating the housing polycrisis requires a change in mindsets, systems and outcomes and the research will provide a coherent economic story for politicians and practitioners that has been missing too long in Scotland.

SFHA Chief Executive, Richard Meade said:

“Housing associations and co-operatives have been an integral part of Scotland’s social fabric for decades providing over 300,000 secure, warm and affordable homes in communities everywhere from Shetland to the Scottish Borders.

“However, as well as their unique social purpose, housing associations make a significant contribution to Scotland’s economy. They provide tens of thousands of jobs, invest significantly in communities and the social infrastructure they create is vital to supply chains and businesses throughout the country.  

“We are delighted to commission the David Hume Institute and Professor Duncan Maclennan to better evidence the contribution of housing associations to Scotland’s economy. This research will show the impact housing associations have on the economy and the contributions they make to meeting  Scotland’s economic missions..

“Ending the housing emergency is not only a moral imperative, but it is also an economic imperative. This research will set out an evidence-based business case for investing in housing associations to create a more prosperous country.”

Professor Duncan Maclennan said:

“Housing has too often been viewed narrowly as a social issue, when in reality it is a fundamental part of a well-functioning economy. This research will explore how housing associations contribute not only to meeting housing need, but to improving productivity, supporting labour markets and enabling sustainable economic growth across Scotland. By taking a whole-system perspective, we can better understand the full economic value of the sector and its role in shaping a more prosperous future.”

Susan Murray, Director of the David Hume Institute said:

“This research builds on our work highlighting housing as essential economic infrastructure. At a time when Scotland is focused on growth and productivity, it is vital that we fully recognise the contribution housing associations make - not just socially, but economically. By strengthening the evidence base, this research will help inform policy and investment decisions that support both communities and long-term economic resilience.”

[ENDS]

Notes to Editors

• Housing associations directly employ over 13,000 people across Scotland and invest hundreds of millions of pounds in developing new homes and improving existing homes.

• Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) is the membership body for, and collective voice of housing associations and co‑operatives in Scotland. 

• About Professor Duncan Maclennan: Duncan was a member of the Board of Scottish Homes from 1989 until 1999 and then spent a decade working in government, as special Adviser to the First Ministers of Scotland, as a Chief Economist in the Government of Victoria and as Chief Economist in Canada’s Federal Department for Infrastructure and Cities. He has acted as adviser to Ministers in the UK, Scotland, France, Poland and Norway, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.  He is a fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, the Academy of Social Sciences and Honorary Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute, The Chartered Institute of Housing and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. He was awarded a CBE for services to UK housing research in 1997. He remains affiliated to the University of Glasgow as an Emeritus Professor of Urban Economics and holds Professorial appointments in Housing Economics at McMaster University (Ontario) and UNSW (Sydney).

• About the David Hume Institute: The David Hume Institute is an independent think tank with a mission to improve understanding of the economy in Scotland. DHI undertakes research and hosts public events to encourage discussion about the economy and society.  

NHS and Cost of Living Top Priority for Voters

25th February 2026

Scots feel marginally less pessimistic about the country’s economy, but pressure on spending remains

Nearly half of Scottish voters say healthcare is one of the most important issues facing Scotland, followed closely by the cost of living, according to the latest Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker.

The final wave of the survey before the May election, published by the Diffley Partnership and the David Hume Institute, found around half (48%) of Scots say that healthcare and NHS is a top priority, while more than two in five (43%) said the cost of living and inflation, the biggest rise in concern this wave, up five points.

Almost one in four (23%) name immigration as a top issue - similar to the last tracker in November (22%).

A second tier of concerns remains steady: around one in five (18%) mention poverty and inequality, and the same proportion (18%) cite the economy more broadly. Around one in seven (15%) point to trust in politics, while around one in eight (13%) identify housing.

Economic pessimism eases — but pressure remains

While concern remains high, economic sentiment has improved modestly:

• Around three in five (62%) of those that express an opinion say the economy has worsened over the past year, down seven points since November.

• Two in five (41%) say their personal finances have deteriorated, down six points.

• Two in three (66%) expect economic conditions to worsen in the year ahead, down from nearly three in four (73%) previously.

Yet financial strain is still widespread:

• Just over one in two (52%) report that they have recently cut non-essential spending

• One in two (50%) have reduced leisure spending

• Almost two in five (39%) have dipped into savings

• Three in ten (31%) say money worries are affecting their mental health

Looking ahead, essential costs continue to weigh heavily:

• About seven in ten (69%) expect higher utility bills

• One in two (50%) expect to spend more on food and drink

• Around one in two (49%) foresee higher housing costs

The data also points to deep scepticism about the economic system itself:

• One in fourteen (7%) believe the economy works for most people

• Just one in twelve (8%) think it works for them personally

• Seven in ten (71%) believe it primarily works in the interests of the wealthy

As the election campaign begins, the picture is clear: voters remain under sustained financial pressure and deeply concerned about core public services, but with a cautious sense that the economic outlook may be stabilising.

Scott Edgar, Senior Research Manager, The Diffley Partnership:

“As we move into the election campaign, voters are sending a very clear signal: the NHS and the cost of living will define this contest. Even though pessimism about the economy has eased slightly, people are still feeling real pressure in their day‑to‑day lives. Any party seeking to win trust in May will have to demonstrate not only that they understand these pressures, but that they have credible plans to address them.”

Susan Murray, Director, David Hume Institute:

“There are tentative signs of improvement but confidence in the economic system itself remains strikingly low. Very few people believe the economy works for them — or for most other people.”

“With more than one in four people losing sleep over their finances and one in five people saying money worries are making them less effective at work, there is still a long way to go to tackle the low wage, precarious work that is undermining the economy and the nation’s resilience.

“The challenge for policymakers is not only easing immediate pressures for individuals and businesses, but rebuilding faith that Scotland’s economy can deliver fairness and opportunity more widely as we transition to new industries and ways of living.”

Notes

• Designed by the Diffley Partnership and the David Hume Institute, the survey received 2,131 responses from a representative sample of the adult population, aged 16+, across Scotland. Invitations were issued online using the ScotPulse panel, and fieldwork was conducted between the 1st-4th February 2026. Results are weighted to the Scottish population (2024 estimates) by age and gender. 

Image credit: Front cover of the Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker, February 2026, image of Arbroath Town Centre by S. Murray