Issue:

The government published the social housing green paper (A new deal for social housing) on the 14th August 2018. A consultation was launched alongside the paper and will run until the 6th November 2018. This briefing note summarises the paper.

Although the proposals in the paper will only affect registered providers, there may be implications for the wider membership – for example the proposed review of the Decent Homes Standard and the development of affordable homes.

Background:

The government defines social housing as housing to rent below market level rents or,  to buy through schemes, such as shared ownership. Around 3.9 million households, approximately 9 million people, live in the social rented sector in England, just under a fifth of all households. It is estimated that around 14 per cent of social housing is supported housing. Supported housing is accommodation provided alongside support, to help people live independently.

The Government defines affordable housing as housing for sale or rent, including social housing, for those whose needs are not met by the market.

The green paper contains five principles:

  1. Ensuring homes are safe and decent.
    • Reviewing the Decent Homes Standard. This has not been reviewed since 2006 and will be reviewed to consider whether it is demanding enough and delivers the right standards.
  2. Effective resolution of complaints.
    • Residents should have a stronger voice to influence decisions and challenge their landlord to improve performance
    • Strengthen the mediation opportunities available for landlords and residents to resolve disputes locally
    • Review the ‘designated person’ arrangements
    • Residents should be aware of all routes open to them to raise concerns and feel confident using them
    • Ensure that landlords’ processes for dealing with complaints are fast and effective
  3. Empowering residents and strengthening the Regulator
    • Arming residents with information on landlord performance
    • Key performance indicators should be focused on issues of key importance to residents
    • Consider a new stock transfer programme to promote the transfer of local authority housing particularly to community-based housing associations
    • Helping housing associations and others develop more affordable homes
  4. Tackling stigma and celebrating thriving communities
    • The design and quality of homes and their surrounding area is important to wellbeing, integration, tackling stigma and encouraging existing communities to accept new homes in their area.
  5. Expanding supply and supporting home ownership
    • The level of new housing delivery from the community-led housing sector in England is much lower than in comparable countries
    • Helping housing associations and others develop more affordable homes

Alongside the Green Paper, a Call for Evidence which seeks views on how the current regulatory framework is operating was published.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/social-housing-green-paper-a-new-deal-for-social-housing

Next Steps

The Almshouse Association will respond to the consultation and will consult with members as appropriate.

For further information please contact Chris Targowski, Assistant Director (Policy),
Tel: 01344 452922 email: christargowski@almshouses.org

24 Sept 18