Cabinet receives update on progress in Homes and Neighbourhoods services
On Tuesday 3 November, Cabinet reviewed two reports on Homes and Neighbourhoods’ performance. Cabinet also considered the outcome of the Regulator of Social Housing Inspection approving the Regulatory Improvement Plan.
What was covered in the reports?
The first report, a bi-annual update on performance, progress, risk, and assurance across Homes and Neighbourhoods, details areas for development, while also highlighting those requiring continued focus.
What were the improvements?
The report shows continued improvements over the past six months across several key areas. These include damp, mould, and condensation, repairs, adaptations, and complaints handling. Progress is reflected by improved tenant satisfaction measures and the lifting of the regulatory notice for damp, mould and condensation.
What was the inspection result?
The second report presents the outcome of the Regulator of Social Housing inspection and the Regulatory Improvement Plan designed to address the areas identified for improvement.
We received a C3 grading, with the Regulator of Social Housing identifying two serious failings. The failings related to the quality of stock condition information and the management of antisocial behaviour cases. These were known areas with plans already in place for improvement work, including an accelerated stock condition survey and a 12-month anti-social behaviour transformation programme.
What improvements need to be made?
In addition to weaknesses highlighted by the Regulatory judgement, improving communication with tenants remains an ongoing priority for the service, including stronger resident engagement and scrutiny through the tenant panels.
Other Key priorities over the next six months include finalising the Asset Management and Decent Homes strategies, progression of the fire safety works, preparation for Phase 2 of Awaab’s Law, and complaints timeliness, all of which are covered in the Regulatory Improvement Plan.
What are the next steps?
Now approved, the Regulatory Improvement Plan sets out the basis for delivering, monitoring and assuring our response to the inspection.
Councillor Philip James, Cabinet Member for Housing and Physical Communities, said:
“Homes and Neighbourhoods staff have worked hard to deliver significant improvements ahead of the inspection, and it is encouraging to receive recognition from the regulator in areas such as damp, mould, and condensation, repairs, and complaints handling.
“The inspection highlighted areas where improvements are needed. We are committed to addressing these issues quickly and thoroughly, while continuing to build on the progress already made so that tenants receive the safe, high-quality service they deserve.
“I believe that the newly approved improvement plan provides a clear roadmap for the work needed to continue to make improvements for tenants.”