Together with Tenants case studies

Hard to decarbonise social homes. This report examines why some social homes are harder to decarbonise than others.

Housing Association Finance guide. The NHF and CIPFA (Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy) have co-produced the Housing Association Finance guide covering key finance issues within the housing association sector with regular updates from key experts.

Climate and sustainability. Everything housing associations need to know about decarbonisation and sustainability in one place. 

Decarbonisation chairs meeting recording. This webinar on decarbonisation for housing association chairs shares the latest policy updates including an update on Wave 2 of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and best practice from across the sector.  

Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund - Wave 2 briefing. In our latest briefing session, members have the opportunity to learn more about wave two of the SHDF. This includes reviewing the latest guidance released by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to help kick-start your organisation’s retrofit project.

Here’s what we need from the next Prime Minister to deliver decarbonisation in social housing. Both Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak have committed to reaching net zero by 2050 but are yet to provide further detail on these commitments.

Decarbonising heritage and traditional homes. Heritage homes are those which have special considerations under the planning system, due to the character and historic interest attached to the building. Here is key information and guidance for retrofitting heritage and traditional homes.

Tools and resources. Here you'll find links to tools and resources to help housing associations with decarbonisation. This page is updated regularly.

Learning from our disability pay gap analysis at Evolve Housing + Support. Evolve have reviewed the key lessons learned from conducting their first disability pay gap to further understand how they can improve the representation of disabled staff and create a more inclusive organisation.

Raising accessibility standards for new homes – briefing for housing associations. Changes to planning legislation would mean all new homes will be required to have step-free access to all entrance level rooms and facilities.

Code of Conduct 2012.

Service charges and rentcharges: a guide for social housing landlords (6th edition).

Households on heat networks will not miss out on the £400 winter energy discount. BEIS have now confirmed that support equivalent to £400 will be available for households who will not be reached through the Energy Bills Support Scheme.

How housing associations can support veterans this Remembrance Day. Securing long-term funding and creating armed forces-friendly work places are key to ensuring veterans are supported by housing associations. 

Understanding the experiences of LGBTQ+ Veterans. The government is seeking views from individuals and organisations on the impact of the pre-2000 ban on homosexuality in the Armed Forces. Lee Buss-Blair reflects on his own journey and explains why it is important that LGBTQ+ Veterans experiencing homelessness are able to contribute to this process.

Looking at the retrofit projects underway thanks to the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund. Recently I had the pleasure of meeting some of the residents who have benefitted from having their homes retrofitted using the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, and spoke to their landlords about the process.

Working in partnership to mitigate against the cost of living crisis webinar. This webinar held in collaboration with the Local Government Association (LGA) provides information on what funding and support are available for housing association residents affected by the cost of living crisis.  

Building new homes. We’re working with housing associations and the Government to increase the number of new homes the sector is building.

Driving racial equality at South Yorkshire Housing Association. Mulima Muyunda, Race and Diversity Lead at SYHA explores how the creation of a Race Action Plan is helping to drive measurable and tangible change for racial equality.

New recommendations on the quality and regulation of social housing. Read our summary of the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (LUHC) Select Committee report on social housing regulation.

Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund: update from the government about the next wave of funding (Wave 2.1). £800m was committed as part of the 2021 Spending Review. The next wave aims to allocate as much of this funding will as possible to support the installation of energy performance measures in social homes in England. Applications expected to open late August or early September 2022.

Consumer Regulation Review 2021-22 summary . Read our summary of the Regulator of Social Housing's Consumer Regulation Review 2021-22 which sets out their approach to consumer regulation.

Tackling loneliness and social isolation for LGBT+ older people. Re-engage have launched ‘rainbow call companions’, a free telephone befriending service for LGBT+ older people created to help tackle loneliness and social isolation.

Our response to LUHC Committee report on social housing regulation. Read our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (LUHC) Select Committee report on social housing regulation.

Short survey about your decarbonisation strategy. Affordable housing aggregator the Housing Finance Corporation (THFC) is gathering data on the decarbonisation plans and costs for housing associations, as part of their lobbying for a guaranteed funding solution.

Code of Governance 2020.

De-risking sites and preparing them for MMC before it’s too late webinar. This webinar is focused on the use of modern methods of construction (MMC) in social housing. 

Building safety resident engagement webinar. This webinar is focused on building safety resident engagement strategies and how our members can adopt good practice from across the sector.

Rural Housing Week. An annual campaign to showcase the fantastic work housing associations do in rural communities, Rural Housing Week 2022 is your opportunity to highlight the many ways in which housing associations are working to support the levelling up agenda in rural areas. 

Together with Tenants. This plan aims to strengthen the relationship between tenants, residents and housing associations. 

Best practice (Together with Tenants). Here you'll find examples of best practice and innovative approaches to implementing the Together with Tenants charter.

Together with tenants - resident involvement. We have been working with residents, tenant representative groups, our members and others to understand what practical change is needed in the relationship between housing associations and tenants.

Rural housing. We’re supporting housing associations to invest in rural homes and communities.

Driving resident engagement at Salix Homes. Find out how Salix Homes have adopted Together with Tenants to transform their engagement with residents led by the creation of a Customer Committee and Customer Charter. This has strengthened their commitment towards putting customers at the heart of how they operate.

Acis Group’s Together with Tenants action plan. Find out how Acis Group have adopted Together with Tenants to help strengthen relationships with residents as part of a commitment towards improving the homes and services they offer.  

Creating a Resident Scrutiny Panel at Radcliffe Housing Society. Find out how North Star Housing have re-shaped adopted Together with Tenants to reshape resident engagement activities to empower residents to get involved in influencing decisions and help shape service delivery.

Reshaping resident engagement at North Star Housing. Find out how North Star Housing have re-shaped adopted Together with Tenants to reshape resident engagement activities to empower residents to get involved in influencing decisions and help shape our service delivery.

Levelling up rural communities. Ever since I was elected as MP for remote, rural, coastal North Devon in 2019, my mission has been to find ways to level up the pockets of severe deprivation in my beautiful constituency.

Current policy and funding. Summaries of the key policy and funding guiding decarbonisation, which will be kept up to date as the environment evolves.

Four years on from the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower: we must have a regulatory system that’s fit for purpose. Kate Henderson reflects on our continued work with government to shape the new regulatory system to ensure the safety of people in their homes.

As someone who grew up in the country, levelling up rural communities is close to my heart. It’s crucial that 'levelling up' doesn't just focus on regeneration in our towns and cities, but e also unlocks the huge potential of our rural communities.

New research sheds light on decarbonisation of social housing. The UK’s 2050 net zero target relies on eliminating carbon emissions from all homes, including social homes, over the next 30 years. A new survey finds that the housing sector is well underway but that challenges remain.

Home Truths: what does housing in your local area really look like? Find out more about how our updated tool can be used to highlight differences in house prices, rent and more, across the country.

What are housing associations doing to help prevent homelessness? . Published in collaboration with CIH and Homes for Cathy, these case studies shine a light on the work housing associations continue to play in tackling homelessness.

Rural homelessness: England's hidden crisis. This recorded discussion brings together experts from universities, housing associations and charities to explore how we can work together to better support service users and drive down rural homelessness.

DLUHC are addressing issues with access to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) data for housing association homes. EPC data is held by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and access is important for planning retrofit work and bidding into the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.

VAT reliefs for decarbonisation works . VAT on energy saving materials will be reduced from 5% to 0% from April 2022 to April 2027, although there are practical questions which arise as a result of trying to maximise these reliefs.

Changes and challenges to partial exemption special methods. There have been recent examples where applications to update a partial exemption special method have been rejected by HMRC, even when the areas of concern for HMRC in the current applications were previously approved.

Understanding your defined benefit pension obligations as an employer. Short term high inflation is likely to mean that the next actual pension increase applied to benefits currently being paid, as well as those in deferment, will be higher than currently built into valuation assumptions.

How housing associations can support their employees with the cost of living crisis. Isio have identified some easy actions a housing association can implement to help employees in these challenging times.

Creating safe spaces for the young and homeless in the LGBTQ+ community. Find out how Centrepoint provides homeless young LGBTQ+ people with accommodation, health support and life skills in order to get them back into education, training and employment.

The critical shortage of housing is stopping councils acting earlier to prevent homelessness . Francesca Albanese, Head of Research and Evaluation at Crisis, reflects on the success of the Homelessness Reduction Act and asks what more needs to be done to support those facing homelessness. 

Celebrating 50 years of Pride at Stonewall Housing. Tina Wathern, Director of Education and Engagement from Stonewall Housing reflects on their impact on the Pride movement over the past 50 years and outlines the future ahead.

Are you ready for Rural Housing Week 2022? Rural Housing Week, taking place 4-8 July, is our opportunity to put levelling up in a rural context.

Why we stand with refugees this Refugee Week. Fuad Mahamed, Chief Executive Officer of ACH reflects on why we must continue to support refugees and provide opportunities for people to thrive in the UK.

What does the Renters' Reform Bill mean for supported housing? The government has published new proposals on reform of tenure, including the abolition of section 21 ‘no fault’ repossession of property. 

Independent panel on quality in housing association homes . While most housing association homes are of high quality, we know that some of our homes and services are falling short of the high standards that we expect and that our residents deserve.

Our response to the Renters’ Reform White Paper . Earlier this month, DLUHC published a white paper on Renters’ Reform. 

Honouring the Windrush generation for their contributions to Britain. Read a blog from Olive Jones, Director of People, NHF which marks Windrush Day 2022 and the 74th anniversary since the Windrush generation arrived in the UK.

Smaller housing associations and the road to zero carbon. This webinar explores some of the issues raised in a new briefing on decarbonisation for smaller housing associations, including the support and funding available to help smaller housing associations on the road to net zero.

This Refugee Week we can all play our part and help those arriving in our communities to heal. Part of the trauma of a refugee experience is the loss of your home; part of the healing, therefore, must be securing a safe home in order to build a new life.

Energy crisis: fuel poverty and communal and district heating systems. This briefing sets out the National Housing Federation’s position on how the energy price cap financially affects housing associations and their residents and sets out short and long-term measures to address the impact of the fuel crisis.

Celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. Boris Worrall, Chief Executive of Rooftop Housing and Chair of the National Advisory Panel on Gypsy Traveller Housing reviews the progress made in housing for the Gypsy and Traveller community.  

Carers Week 2022 - coming out from behind the scenes. Natalie Quilter, Diversity Inclusion and Wellbeing Lead at Notting Hil Genesis opens up about her personal story as an unpaid carer.

Start preparing your bids for Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund: Wave 2. Applications for funding from wave 2 of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund will open in late August or early September 2022 but you can begin preparing applications now.

Right to Buy - our response. Read our response to the government's announcement on the Right to Buy scheme. 

Removing the invisibility of adult social care. The NHF submitted a response to the House of Lords Adult Social Care Committee’s call for evidence as part of their inquiry ‘Lifting the veil: Removing the invisibility of adult social care’.

Independent panel on quality in housing association homes . We want to take action to address the issues of quality within the social housing sector.

Independent panel set up to tackle poor-quality homes. The National Housing Federation and Chartered Institute for Housing will set up an independent panel to make urgent recommendations for tackling poor quality housing in the sector.

The Social Housing Regulation Bill - our response. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the NHF responds to the recently published Social Housing Regulation Bill.

Cost of living support announced . On Thursday, the government announced a £15bn package implementing a number of measures to provide support to millions of households across the UK struggling with the rising cost of living.

DWP guidance on deductions from benefits. The Department for Work and Pensions has published guidance that explains how creditors, including landlords, can request deductions from benefits to help people manage debt.

Top tips on how to become a Disability Confident employer. Watch a video from Kathryn Jones, Diversity and Inclusion Lead from Aster Group who shares some tips on how to become a Disability Confident employer and help to create a more inclusive social housing sector.
 
 
 

Supported housing and young people webinar. This webinar explores how housing associations can use supported housing to support young people with skills, training and employment opportunities.

What did we learn from Climate and Sustainability in Housing 2022? Ewan Fulford from our Policy team rounds up of the key themes and messages from Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2022.

Commencement of the Fire Safety Act 2021. The Fire Safety Act 2021 was implemented on 16 May 2022 and the regulations arising from it were laid before Parliament on 18 May. We've summarised the Act and the regulations, and clarified some of the main points.

Working in partnership with residents to deliver Together with Tenants. This webinar shares good examples of how housing associations have adopted Together with Tenants to work with residents to drive real change and improve trust and accountability.

Clarifying consent for the Commitment to Refer . We have updated the Commitment to Refer guidelines to clarify the process around consent.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms mandatory from October 2022. Eddie Hughes MP has once again written with an update on new smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements.

The Queen's speech 2022: our response. We've summarised the key information for housing associations from the state opening of Parliament.

Phase two of the No Homeless Veterans campaign launched. Today at the House of Lords, we joined organisations from the housing and homelessness sector, Armed Forces charities, MPs from all parties, and local authority leaders to launch a new phase of a campaign to end homelessness among Armed Forces veterans.

Consultation on local connection requirements for victims of domestic abuse – our response. Read the National Domestic Abuse Group's response to the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities' Consultation on local connection requirements for social housing for victims of domestic abuse.

Consultation on the impacts of joint tenancies on victims of domestic abuse - our response. Read our submission response to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities' Consultation on the impacts of joint tenancies on victims of domestic abuse.

NHF response to the Infrastructure Levy under the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. We welcome the publication of the Bill and look forward to working with the government to ensure the supply of affordable housing is protected.

Code of conduct 2022. The NHF’s Code of Conduct sets out standards for housing associations that are members of the NHF.

Code of Conduct for smaller housing associations. This is the latest in a new series of webinars focused on governance specifically for smaller housing associations.

NHF response to the Queen's Speech. We look forward to working with the government to ensure social housing residents are always listened to and strengthen their rights through implementing the Social Housing Regulation Bill.

Building Safety Act. The Building Safety Bill has received Royal Assent, and the new Act will bring into force a number of measures intended to make buildings and residents safe, and protect leaseholders from building safety costs.

Social housing residents must not pay the price of the energy crisis. The energy crisis and cost of living increases are causing severe financial difficulties for many housing association residents, and are also driving up costs for housing associations themselves.

Changing culture and leadership with Together with Tenants. Angela Gascoigne, Chief Executive of SHAL Housing explores the importance of changing culture and leadership for housing associations to successfully adopt Together with Tenants. 

Temporary pause on energy usage deductions from benefits . In light of the significant increase in energy bills, the Department for Work and Pensions has written to UK energy suppliers about plans to temporarily pause requests to pay for ongoing energy usage from benefits from 1 April.  

Why the NHF Code of Conduct still matters. James Tickell, Partner at Campbell Tickell, explains why the launch of the NHF's updated Code of Conduct is more important than ever at a time when the sector is under scrutiny.

Statement on Right to Buy. NHF Chief Executive Kate Henderson reacts to recent news that the government may be considering reviving the Right to Buy scheme.

New money guidance from Money and Pensions Service. The guidance focusses on people who have not yet missed payments on their bills or credit obligations, but are at risk of doing so.

Creating a Carers Network. Read an EDI case study from Notting Hill Genesis about the creation of Carers Network supporting all colleagues who care for others alongside carrying out their day jobs.

Household Support Fund launched. The Household Support Fund has been doubled to £1bn in an effort to assist families with the cost of living.

Becoming a truly disability confident employer. This webinar explores how housing associations can become Disability Confident employers attracting new talent and embedding accessible and inclusive ways of working.

Universal Credit and rent arrears - April 2022. We wanted to understand how people were managing day-to-day living costs and the financial stability of the sector, as well as how the Universal Credit system has coped throughout the coronavirus crisis.

Building Better.

Government grants available for electric vehicle chargepoints. £350 is available for each parking space provided with a chargepoint socket, with up to 200 grants available per year per landlord.

Coronavirus arrears report ‘Going freestyle: what happens when the rulebook is taken away’ . The NHF has jointly published a new report with Placeshapers and whg on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on rent arrears approaches at social landlords.

Papworth Trust - Becoming a Disability Confident employer. Read a case study from Papworth Trust about their journey to becoming a Disability Confident employer as part of a commitment to support existing employees and ensure recruitment processes are accessible and supportive for disabled applicants.

This Earth Day, we examine the latest developments in climate policy and what it means for social housing. Policy Officer Rory Hughes summarises the recent developments for the UK and for housing associations in the field of sustainability and decarbonisation.

Housing homeless families. With historically numbers of homeless families currently living in temporary accommodation, we wanted to better understand how social housing is allocated to homeless families.

What speaking to recently homeless families made me realise about allocating homes. Research Lead at the NHF, Bekah Ryder, explores what talking to recently homeless families for the recently published 'Housing homeless families' taught her about the process of allocating homes. 

Update on government negotiations with developers. Michael Gove, has provided an update on his negotiations with developers around ensuring that those responsible for the building safety crisis pay to fix it.

Affordable home ownership. As well as providing rented homes that people on low incomes can afford, housing associations also offer a range of homes for people priced out of traditional home ownership.

Shared ownership. Housing associations have built and sold 103,000 shared ownership homes in the last decade, and plan to meet the growing demand for this product.

First Homes. The government has introduced a new affordable home ownership product to the market – First Homes. These are new properties which are sold for a discount of at least 30% below market value to first time buyers.

Voluntary Right to Buy. The government has committed to extending the Right to Buy policy, which allows council tenants to buy their home at a discount, to housing association tenants. As this scheme is not legislated, it is called Voluntary Right to Buy.

Housing homeless families webinar. In this webinar Bekah Ryder, Research Lead at the NHF presents the findings from the Housing Homeless Families research report and its recommendations for local authorities and housing associations, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Department for Work and Pensions.

New Disabled Facilities Grant guidance. The government has produced new guidance on the delivery of the Disabled Facilities Grant for adaptations to serve the needs of older and disabled people.

UK Covid-19 Inquiry. The government has published a draft Terms of Reference for its inquiry into the UK's preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Update on Gazprom and contracts with Russian-owned suppliers. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, housing associations have been reconsidering their contracts with Russian-owned businesses, particularly Gazprom Energy.

What’s next for Together with Tenants? Catherine Ryder, Director of Policy and Research, NHF provides a progress update on our Together with Tenants initiative helping to strengthen relationships between housing associations and residents.

Our response to the Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation consultation. Biodiversity Net Gain will apply to developers seeking planning permission for development and will require that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were in prior to development.

Review of Decent Homes Standard accelerated. The Decent Homes Standard review has resumed and will now also cover the private rented sector.

Latest regarding decarbonisation and the ongoing energy crisis. There have been a number of government announcements recently that will impact housing associations.

ogether with Tenants Ambassadors. A list of our Together with Tenants Ambassadors. 

Joint letter to the Secretary of State (BEIS) about the decarbonisation of homes. We have joined NatWest and others who signed a letter to the Secretary of State Kwasi Kwarteng MP detailing measures the government should take now to ensure we can deliver energy efficiency this decade.

Becoming a Disability Confident housing association. Sarah Miller, Chief Executive of Papworth Trust reviews how housing associations can become Disability Confident organisations.

Our response to the government’s announcement on social housing regulation. Read our response to the government's latest announcement on the Social Housing Regulation Bill.

Smaller housing associations and the road to zero carbon. This briefing explores the policy context and challenges raised by our smaller members and outlines the support the we can provide on the road to zero carbon.

The energy crisis: how it’s affecting residents and housing associations . Housing associations are doing all they can to help mitigate the impact of energy price rises on tenants and leaseholders.

New measures on building safety remediation costs. The government has announced new measures to protect leaseholders from paying for building safety remediation costs and ensure that those responsible pay.

Homes for Ukraine. An update on housing association's efforts to support refugees.

The NHF joins the sector in calls to help young victims of sexual assault access housing . Solace, the women’s aid organisation, have written to HM Treasury to demand they do more to protect victims of sexual assault aged under 35.

NHF response to Spring Statement 2022. Our response to the Spring Statement 2022

NICE guide on integrated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Centre for Homelessness Impact have jointly published a guideline on ways to improve access to and engagement with health and social care services for people experiencing homelessness.

DLUHC announce intention to introduce new package of oversight for supported housing . The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has published a Written Ministerial Statement. The statement concerns the quality and regulation of supported housing.

The energy crisis and communal heating systems – feedback required . The NHF is discussing with the government and consumer organisations how best to help tenants with fuel costs given anticipated price rises. 

Recruitment and retention – how do we address the staffing crisis in the care and support sector? In response to our members highlighting the issue of recruitment and retention in the care and supported housing sector, we held two member roundtables in February.

Celebrating women in social housing. Lucy Malarkey, Managing Director of WISH celebrates the contribution of women working in social housing as part of Women's History Month 2022.

Funding to strengthen local partnerships to prevent and end rough sleeping. The prospectus for the DLUHC Voluntary and Community Frontline Sector Support Grant is now live. Applications for the four separate lines of the fund are due by 1 April.

Exploring the link between supported housing and improved health and wellbeing. Two member groups are collaborating to commission external research into the impact of supported housing on homeless prevention and improving the health and wellbeing of customers.

Learning and improvement from resident complaints – annual reporting requirements clarification.

2022 FRS102 reporting.

Upcoming Local Government Pension Scheme valuation – 31 March.

Housing associations in 2022: a strategic review. Read our strategic review report setting out key findings into the long term future of the housing association sector.

Tax Incentives for decarbonisation.

Employment tax checklist for hybrid working.

Common mistakes in Stamp Duty Land Tax returns.

Decarbonisation and lending – housing roundtable. In February 2022, we hosted a roundtable to discuss housing associations’ capacity to invest in decarbonising and improving the energy efficiency of their stock.

Committee report stresses impact of building safety costs on the delivery of affordable homes. The levelling up, housing and communities committee has published a new report on cladding and remediation.

NHF response to committee report on building safety remediation and funding. Read our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee's report on building safety remediation and funding.

Our recent work on non-commissioned exempt accommodation. On 23 February, a parliamentary debate was tabled by the Labour Party on non-commissioned exempt accommodation.

Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation consultation briefing. This briefing explores the questions and proposals set out in the government’s Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation, published on 11 January 2022.

Equality, diversity and inclusion in smaller housing associations webinar. This webinar reviews how smaller housing associations can improve EDI with your organisation including some of the challenges and opportunities.

No Homeless Veterans campaign: survey responses needed. The NHF is working to deliver the second stage of the No Homeless Veterans campaign alongside Homeless Link.

Our response to the tenant satisfaction measures consultation. Read our response to the Regulator of Social Housing's tenant satisfaction measures consultation.

Department for Work and Pension announcement on annual rent changes. The Department for Work and Pensions confirmed earlier this month that all 2022 annual rent changes would be subject to verification by landlords on the Universal Credit portal this year.

Living with Covid plan announced. The Prime Minister has announced an end to all remaining coronavirus restrictions in England.

Tackling the LGBTQ+ youth homelessness crisis. To mark LGBT+ History Month Jotepreet Bhandal, Campaigns, Policy and Research Lead at akt reviews how can we tackle the LGBTQ+ youth homelessness crisis in the UK.

Housing associations working alongside the NHS webinar. This webinar reviews health promotion initiatives offered by housing associations in partnership with the NHS and other stakeholders.

Hilti: making construction work simpler, faster and safer. Suppling innovative products, systems and services that provide construction professionals with innovative solutions and superior added value.

National Supported Housing Network. Our National Supported Housing Network is a space for you to find out the latest updates, share best practice and insights on the key supported housing issues that matter to your organisation the most.

Consultation on new tenant satisfaction measures webinar. In this webinar hear from Kate Dodsworth, Director of Consumer Regulation from The Regulator of Social Housing who reviews the consultation on the new tenant satisfaction measures and explains what they will mean for housing associations.

Working with the new Housing Minister. The NHF has welcomed the new Minister of State for Housing, Stuart Andrew MP following a cabinet reshuffle.

Consultation to revoke compulsory vaccinations for health and social care staff. On 31 January 2022, the government announced its intention to revoke the regulations that made vaccination a condition of deployment for health and social care staff.

Zero carbon homes: tech we can trust. Electric heat pumps are likely to be the dominant solution to how we green our homes but many questions remain.

Levelling Up White Paper - briefing for housing associations . The government has published their much-anticipated Levelling Up White Paper, setting out a large programme of work which aims to tackle geographical disparities across England.

Bidding open for next round of Rough Sleeping Accommodation Programme funding. Councils and their partners have until midday on 13 April 2022 to submit their co-produced proposals for the next round of Rough Sleeping Accommodation Programme (RSAP) funding.

Housing First. Housing First is an approach to ending homelessness through housing and support provision.

Rough sleeping . Housing associations have a key part to play in resolving rough sleeping through accommodation and prevention.

What does the Levelling Up White Paper mean for housing associations? The Levelling Up White Paper has now been published, find out what it means for housing associations.

Without more support, the cost of remediating fire safety issues will be felt by those who can least afford it. Housing associations are committed to making homes safe for residents, but absorbing the costs can mean they have to delay other urgent work.

New domestic abuse guidance published. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have recently updated two pieces of guidance in relation to supporting victims of domestic abuse.

How to be a trans ally? To celebrate Pride Month Joanne Lockwood, Associate, HDN shares her top tips on how to become a trans ally. Watch the video and learn more.

Effective complaint handling webinar. This webinar promotes and shares good practices on complaint handling helping housing associations explore effective processes and procedures that can be implemented to resolve complaints swiftly.

Not just because it’s right, but because it’s necessary to be better. Board member Nick Yandle explains how our board level equality, diversity and inclusion group is aiming to tackle some big challenges in the sector.

What will 2022 hold for our decarbonisation work? As the energy crisis continues, our work on decarbonisation has a renewed sense of urgency, so it is worth recapping where we have come from and where it is going in the next few months. 

Help your council shape their rough sleeping funding plans before 25 February . Local authorities are currently developing plans that will shape homelessness services for the next three years. Housing associations can, and should engage now to share best practice and help shape those services.

Domestic abuse and joint tenancies. During this webinar we discuss perpetrator management and good practice related to joint tenancies, and ensuring work with perpetrators does not come to a cost to the victim of domestic abuse.

Social housing’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in 2022. Find out how housing associations can drive change in EDI this year by setting New Year’s resolutions using the key recommendations from our EDI report.

Equality, diversity and inclusion data regional breakdown. The NHF has published regional breakdowns of the data for housing associations to review and act on following the launch of our national equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) report.  

National Asset Management Network. Share practice, insights and policy updates and hear from guest speakers on the issues that matter most to you.

Building a Safer Future Charter: changing culture and reducing risk webinar. In this webinar, MHS Homes and Kier Group share their insights on why they signed up to become Building a Safer Future Charter Champions and how it has helped their organisations.

Finance Demystified.

Raising awareness of disability in the workplace. Watch Gemma Waddington’s Vlog and learn about her personal journey leading to the creation of a diversity and inclusion group called Don’t Dis my Ability at The Hyde Group.

Supported housing: staff shortages and new testing rules. The advice for health and social care staff on testing has changed.

Future Homes Standard – interim uplift information. In December 2021, the government implemented the interim uplift to building regulations and published new Approved Documents.

Why some of the answers to the social care staffing crisis lie locally. Sector leaders are reporting that staff shortages across all services are the worst they have ever known.

Phasing out the installation of fossil fuel heating in homes off the gas grid - consultation response. The government is seeking views on proposals to phase out the installation of fossil fuel heating systems in homes off the gas grid - read the NHF response.

Plan B guidance – what has changed and what it means for housing associations. In early December, the government announced the implementation of its Plan B for containing and managing the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus in England.

How can housing associations best help people off the street and into a long term home? . In the last year, the number of rough sleepers has fallen dramatically in London and across England. What made this radical change possible and, more importantly, how can we keep the momentum going and end rough sleeping for good?

NHF response to building safety announcements. The NHF has responded to an announcement on building safety by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Tenant satisfaction measures consultation. The Regulator of Social Housing is consulting on a proposed set of tenant satisfaction measures until 3 March 2022.

The Thinkhouse board member blog: will our homes and services stand the test of time? A summary of inspiring reports for board members on delivering high quality homes now and in the future. 

What will 2022 look like for social housing? Our mission at the NHF is to understand and anticipate the critical issues affecting the social housing sector - here are some of the key issues on our radar.

Supported and older people’s housing development survey. In autumn 2021 the NHF surveyed members to explore plans and appetite for developing more supported and older people’s housing and to better understand the barriers to development in this sector.  

New plans to protect and vaccinate rough sleepers. Eddie Hughes MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Rough Sleeping and Housing at DLUHC has issued a letter to local authorities indicating that they should accommodate rough sleepers and connect them with support to receive their coronavirus vaccination.

Exempt accommodation inquiry - call for evidence.  Please get in touch with our team by 14 January if you would like to share your views.

Our response to the call for evidence on the regulation of social housing. Read our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee's call for evidence on The Regulation of Social Housing.

NHF joins steering group to examine rural homelessness . Chaired by English Rural Housing Association, this will be a 12 month collaboration between Kent and Southampton University and several leading homelessness and rural charities, including HomelessLink, the Trussell Trust and the NHF.

Developing a Building Safety Case briefing. Our briefing helps members to begin putting together their Building Safety Cases, and prepare for the new building safety regulations.

Overseeing standards, quality and value for money in supported housing: what should be done? This webinar explores current supported housing pilots aimed at improving the quality, enforcement, oversight and value for money in supported housing. We also review the remedies for the poor quality provision and discuss the lessons learned from the experience of Prospect Housing in trying to improve standards.

How partnerships can help housing associations to tackle homelessness . As the Homelessness Lead for Bromford my role is deliver on our strategic goal ‘We want to improve social justice and play our part in reducing homelessness in our big four areas’.

People in housing need 2021. Our People in housing need report looks at the full extent of the housing crisis in England, including how different housing issues affect people across tenures and regions.

People in housing need. Published annually, People in housing need gives the best estimate of housing need in England.

The regulatory landscape for smaller housing associations . Discusses the current regulatory landscape for smaller housing associations and the implications of the Social Housing White Paper leaders, boards and tenants and residents.

Tackling domestic abuse at Octavia Housing. Elizabeth Rowland, Housing Services Manager at Octavia Housing explains how they've got involved in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign to tackle domestic abuse. 

CG Bonds Surety: specialists in the procurement of performance bonds for contractors. The purpose of a performance bond is to protect the bond beneficiary, such as a housing association, in case of non-performance or insolvency of the contractor.

How diverse is the housing association workforce in England? This report presents the findings of the first ever national picture of EDI within the housing association workforce in England. We have EDI data from 174 organisations, representing 71% of homes owned by housing associations in England.

National CEO Network on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. This network is for sector leaders to explore their crucial role in shifting workplace culture to become more inclusive. The meetings are an opportunity to hear from out of sector experts in aspects of the equality and diversity agenda, and to discuss challenges and ideas with sector colleagues.

Considerations on rent.

Social Housing Pension Scheme valuation results – next steps for housing associations. The Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS) 2020 valuation results were published in August 2021. With a significant increase in contributions due from April 2022, we consider what the results might mean for your organisation more widely and the steps you can take to review your pension strategy and form your longer term response.

Local Government Pension Scheme – what to consider when managing risk. Recent developments in Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) legislation, mean employers may have more options for managing assets and liabilities in their fund, from closure, to future accrual. 

Tackling equality, diversity and inclusion in housing. A preview of the NHF'S Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Housing event on 9 December bringing together leaders from across the social housing sector to reveal the results from the first national picture of the diversity of the housing association workforce in England.

Social housing recognised in new Social Care White Paper. The NHF has welcomed the government’s launch of a wide ranging 10 year vision for Social Care, People at the Heart of Care.

Updated coronavirus guidance for supported living. The government has updated its coronavirus guidance for staff and service users in supported living settings in a number of areas.

Our response to the government's Social Care White Paper. Catherine Ryder, Director of Policy and Research at the NHF responds to the government's Social Care White Paper released today.

Resources to support communications with residents and staff about coronavirus. We’ve summarised some of the resources available from the government that housing associations can use to support their communications with residents and staff about coronavirus.

1 in 5 children in need of a new home. Two million children in England are living in overcrowded, unaffordable or unsuitable homes, according to new findings.

Westward Housing marks 16 Days of Activism against Gendered-Based Violence. To mark this year’s campaign against gendered-based violence learn how Westward Housing is raising awareness around domestic abuse. 

Approved Document B. Approved Document B covers building regulation in England on fire safety matters within and around buildings.

Regulations to enact Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry recommendations. The Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry Phase 1 has made a series of recommendations that will require a change in the law to enact

Building Safety Regulator. A new Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has been created within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) with extensive new powers of regulation, inspection and enforcement.

Building Safety Bill. The Building Safety Bill is the most important piece of building safety legislation in recent years. The Bill was published in early July 2021 and began its progress through Parliament.

Fire Safety Act. The Bill has been designed to ensure that people feel safe in their homes and a tragedy like the Grenfell Tower fire will never happen again.

RenKap. This easy-to-use platform helps developers to make fast decisions on which sites to buy or build on, and to complete your site investigations quickly and thoroughly.

Why I’ve joined the Strategic Reference Group on Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse. Domestic abuse occurs in homes up and down the country - we need to ensure the social housing sector is part of the solution. I’m joining the conversation from a different angle: holding perpetrators to account and preventing harm.

Building a Safer Future Charter and culture change. The Building a Safer Future Charter was created to promote a positive culture and behaviour change in the safety of the built environment. It sets out a series of commitments that will help put people’s safety first in how we plan for, design, build, maintain, and look after the safety of the buildings we live in to protect those that use them.

Valuing properties. Mortgage lenders have been providing zero valuations for properties in multi-occupied buildings with potential safety risks, leaving leaseholders unable to remortgage or sell their homes.

Funding for remediation. A review of the two main government funds open to housing associations to fund the remediation and replacement of unsafe cladding systems.

Our asks on risk prioritisation. The NHF'S response to the government's advice on prioritising for building safety remediation work in existing buildings.

Government advice on remediation . On 21 July 2021, the government published a statement from a group of independent experts on building safety in medium and lower-rise blocks of flats.

Government announce extension of compulsory vaccinations to health and wider social care settings. Following public consultation on the issue, the government has announced its decision on the proposal to extend the requirement for compulsory vaccinations as a condition of deployment to health and wider social care settings.

How we’re promoting open and fair board recruitment at ForHousing. ForHousing has welcomed five new members to its board, including a new chair. Colette McKune (MBE), Chief Executive of ForHousing and Chair of the NHF’s EDI in Housing Group outlines the approach they have taken to ensure diversity in skills and background.

SPEI Agreements for the Building Safety Fund: a short guide. Subsidy Control rules apply to the Building Safety Fund. Registered providers can receive this funding via the Services of Public Economic Interest (SPEI) rules.

How can housing associations improve health and financial wellbeing through the winter and beyond? As winter approaches, and furlough and the £20 uplift in benefits end, this webinar looked at the role of housing associations in promoting health and wellbeing alongside supporting communities facing fuel poverty and financial inclusion.

Exemptions under the Residential Property Developer Tax. Following our calls for an exemption, the government have announced that the Residential Property Developer Tax will not be payable by non-profit registered providers of social housing and their wholly owned subsidiary companies.

Update on the Building Safety Levy call for exemption. We've summarised what the Building Safety Levy could mean for housing associations and the need for a sector-wide exemption to be introduced.

What we learned from Michael Gove’s Select Committee appearance . Find out what the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities had to say about levelling up, planning, social housing and building safety.

Heat and buildings strategy - briefing for housing associations. The Heat and buildings strategy sets out how the government plans to eliminate ‘virtually all emissions arising from heating, cooling and energy use in our buildings’.

"Net zero is no small feat but the government and housing associations share the same goals". Blog by Lord Callanan, Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

National matrix of property components 2011.

Depreciation Matrix 2012.

National Governance Network meeting (recorded 19 October 2021). The latest forum outlines the work updating the NHF's code of conduct and gives insight into what is likely to be included in the updated document.

What is the cost of making our homes zero carbon and how can this be funded? This webinar recorded 4 November 2021 features representatives from Savills, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and Turner and Townsend.

Energiesprong: Nottingham City Homes 2050. "These homes were really cold before and I dreaded winters."

Stigma and Social Housing in England report – our response. Read our response to the University of Durham's new report on Stigma and Social Housing in England.

Winter Pressures Funding for rough sleeper accommodation. The government has announced £10m of funding to be spent on accommodation for rough sleepers over winter.

What happened at the Summit Special Edition 2021? Ed Barber, Policy Assistant at the NHF provides a roundup of the key sessions from our National Housing Summit event.

Safety case principles for high-rise residential buildings – our response. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued draft guidance setting out the principles underpinning the Building Safety Case, and Safety Case Report, that will be required for all higher-risk buildings when the Building Safety Bill becomes law. We responded to their consultation on behalf of the social housing sector.

Lessons on responding to damp and mould in homes webinar. This webinar explores how the social housing sector can respond better to damp and mould in their homes and improve residents’ experiences.

A truly flexible model of hybrid working will help us prepare for the next phase of the pandemic. Ruth Cooke, Chief Executive of GreenSquareAccord explains how a flexible model of hybrid working will help organisations prepare for the next phase of the pandemic.

HR, legal and health and safety support for smaller housing associations. A new service of HR, legal and health and safety support for NHF members with fewer than 2,000 properties.

Purple Tuesday – how we’re improving the customer experience for disabled people. Find out from Mike Adams, Chief Executive Officer of Purple how they're using #PurpleTuesday initiative to drive improved customer experience for disabled people.

"The route to decarbonising social housing is finally becoming clearer". Blog by Will Jeffwitz, Head of Policy at the National Housing Federation.

Black History Month interview with Olive Jones, Director of People, National Housing Federation. In this BHM interview, we catch up with Olive Jones, Director of People at NHF.

Planning for the future through our strategic review. Rhys Moore, Executive Director of Public Impact, NHF discusses how the NHF is in the process of crafting our next current business strategy shaped by a strategic review with a focus on what the longer-term future may hold for the social housing sector.

Clarion discuss funding for decarbonisation. Fenland District Council, and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council secured £4.5m funding from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, which we've matched-funded with a further £4.5m investment.

Moat discuss their Energiesprong project. In 2019, Moat launched a five home energy efficiency pilot project in Maldon, Essex modelled on the Dutch Energiesprong energy efficiency initiative. 

Best practice (Climate change and sustainability). Here you'll find examples of best practice among housing associations on the journey to decarbonise their homes.

Abri discuss planning and strategy. We’ve assessed our homes to understand how much carbon they are emitting and calculated the costs of retrofitting to make them more energy efficient.

NHF response to the Chancellor's Budget 2021. Today’s budget is a welcome commitment of support in key areas, after a year that has seen families across the country struggling to afford the cost of living.

Local authority Homelessness Prevention Grant increased by £65m to support vulnerable renters. The government has increased the ring-fenced homelessness prevention fund available to local authorities by £65m. 

Together with Tenants Progress and Impact Webinar. This webinar shares findings from the study, showcasing areas where Together with Tenants has had an impact and the challenges that have been encountered across different housing associations.

Extension of compulsory vaccinations – our consultation response . The Department of Health and Social Care has been consulting on whether or not the government should extend the existing statutory requirement for those working or volunteering in a care home to be vaccinated against coronavirus to other health and care settings.

What the NHF is doing to encourage partnership working to end homelessness . The NHF is working to provide opportunities for housing associations to learn about partnership working and discuss possible approaches going forwards.

Risk and assurance for smaller housing associations webinar. This webinar explores risk and assurance and will be of most intersest to chairs, board members, chief executives, company secretaries and governance leads within smaller housing associations.

Black History Month Webinar - In Conversation with Louis Julienne. For Black History Month 2021 we sat down with Louis Julienne, co-founder of the Federation of Black Housing Organisations (FBHO) to hear first-hand his story of developing the first black housing strategy.

Building a national picture of diversity in social housing using our EDI data tool. The NHF would like to say a big thank you to members who submitted their EDI data tool and contributed to building the first-ever national picture of workforce diversity in the social housing sector.

More than 1 in 10 new affordable homes lost to building safety costs. More than 1 in 10 new affordable homes lost to building safety costs according to research by the NHF.

Response to the Heat and Buildings Strategy. We welcome the commitment of the first part of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, the clear signal that heat pumps are likely to be the primary source of home heat and the commitment to bring down electricity prices. 

Decarbonising housing associations’ homes to cost £36bn, according to National Housing Federation. While housing associations are already planning to invest £70bn in futureproofing their homes, our new estimates demonstrate that full decarbonisation by 2050 will cost an additional £36bn.

Decarbonising the housing association sector - costs and funding options. We commissioned Savills to research the costings and funding options for decarbonisation of social housing so we can get a better understanding of what this vital work means financially for our sector.

Decarbonisation: a guide for housing associations. This guide sets out how to retrofit existing social homes so they are more comfortable, cheaper to live in and emit no carbon.

Decarbonisation of housing association homes - a briefing for external stakeholders. To meet the national target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, we must decarbonise all our homes, including the 2.7 million homes in England owned by housing associations. Introducing two new pieces of work to help housing associations achieve this aim.

Housing associations to be made exempt from Residential Property Developer Tax. Following our consultation response and conversations with HM Treasury, updated draft legislation for the Residential Property Developer Tax now includes an exemption for all non-profit groups, including for profit-subsidiaries and joint ventures.

Taking a robust approach to board data. Rose Klemperer, Senior Associate at Penningtons Manches Cooper explains the importance of the social housing sector taking a robust approach to board data to improve governance and better decision making.

Options for achieving net zero webinar. This webinar reviews a key part of the NHF's project on decarbonisation: how can we as a sector navigate our way to net-zero?

We need your response to our latest survey on Universal Credit and income collection. With the end of furlough and the cut to Universal Credit, we are collecting key measures around claimant numbers and income collection, including amount of rent arrears and arrears as a percentage of rent due.

Dispatches from the 2021 party conferences. Kate Henderson reflects on political meetings, party conferences, and the role the sector can play in levelling up, sustainability and achieving net zero.

Signed up to the Commitment to Refer. List of the organisation signed up to the Commitment to Refer.

Could your organisation be doing more to end homelessness? In September, the Kerslake Commission published their report 'A new way of working: ending rough sleeping together'. Ahead of World Homelessness Day, and in response to the report's findings, Vicki McDonald explores what more housing associations could do to prevent homelessness.  

Let’s insulate our homes – and our country – from future energy crises. While social housing residents face a perfect storm this winter with the cut to Universal Credit and rocketing energy bills, climate action could help protect them against future energy crises.

Potential challenges to cost sharing exemption arrangements. HMRC have raised concerns around the application of the cost sharing exemption. We've summarised what this might mean for housing associations and what steps they can take.

Celebrating Black History Month 2021. The NHF is celebrating Black History Month 2021 by amplifying the voices and stories of Black colleagues from across the sector and within our own organisation.

Autumn Budget and Spending Review 2021. A summary of our ongoing work and focus for the government's Autumn Budget and Spending Review 2021.

COP26: a briefing for housing associations. Leading up to the United Nations’ annual climate change conference, the UK government has introduced several consequential measures and revised targets that impact housing associations.

What does the reshuffle mean for housing associations? . Our Public Affairs team take a look at what the new reshuffle could mean for social housing.

How many homes did housing associations build last year? Our end of year Supply Data report looks at how many homes the sector built over the last year.

Consultation on PAS 8673 framework for competence of Building Safety Managers: NHF response. We’ve responded to the draft Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 8673 prepared by the British Standards Institution.

The Regulator of Social Housing has published its learnings from the latest Consumer Regulation Review. The Consumer Regulation Review sets out the Regulator of Social Housing's approach to consumer regulation and the key lessons learned.

Our response to the Kerslake Commission on Rough Sleeping final report. Read our response to the final report from the Commission.

No Place Left Behind: the role housing associations can play in levelling up. Paul Fiddaman, Chief Executive of Karbon Homes, shares his thoughts on the launch of the ‘No Place Left Behind’ commission report.

NHF signs joint letter calling for long-term support funding for Housing First. Along with charities Homeless Link, Crisis and St Mungo’s, the NHF have written to MHCLG asking for an extension to Housing First pilots. 

New consultation on extension of compulsory vaccinations . The aim of this consultation from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is to seek views on whether or not the government should extend compulsory vaccinations to other health and care settings. 

Compulsory vaccinations for care home staff. All staff directly employed by the care home or employed through an agency, as well as all volunteers, will need to be fully vaccinated with both doses of the vaccine by 11 November. 

Apply for Wave 1 of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund. The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund is open for applications until 15 October 2021.

New board members induction (September 2021). Hear from the NHF, the Regulator of Social Housing, the Chair of WHG and Housemark about what makes a great board member.

Starts at Home: enhancing residents’ wellbeing and relieving pressure on the NHS webinar. Ahead of Starts at Home Day 2021, this webinar explores how supported housing providers stepped up to meet the pressures of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and how they can continue to support their residents’ wellbeing while also working with the NHS.

Social Housing Pension Scheme 2020 valuation results – what they might mean for housing associations. We've summarised the recently announced Social Housing Pension Scheme 2020 valuation results and explored what they might mean for housing associations.

2021 Sector Scorecard to include specific supported housing measures. For the first time the Sector Scorecard includes some measures specifically for supported and social housing providers.

Better Care Fund policy framework published. The Better Care Fund, one of the government’s national vehicles for driving health and social care integration, has published its latest framework.

Preparing for the future of work. James Massey, Strategy Director at MRI Software, highlights some key takeaways from their recent event on the future of work and tech solutions for housing associations.

England’s leaky homes are a greater threat to climate than all of its cars. Our new research shows that England’s 25m homes produce 58.5m tonnes of CO2 every year – the equivalent of the average annual use of 28m cars.

Universal Credit: claiming during the coronavirus pandemic webinar. Findings and recommendations from the largest survey of people living in social housing claiming Universal Credit during the coronavirus pandemic.

How retrofitting homes can reduce both residents’ energy bills and carbon emissions. The work at Platform are doing is a great example of the contribution housing associations can make to meeting the government’s climate change objectives. 

How can housing associations’ role as anchor institutions help prevent homelessness? Neil Munslow, Housing Services Manager at Newcastle City Council, explains the key role that social landlords can play in preventing homelessness.

Domestic Abuse Act statutory guidance: share your views. Share your views with the Home Office on their consultation into the Domestic Abuse Act statutory guidance.

Creating partnerships with health and social care for better commissioning. Our briefing outlines the importance of partnerships, and ways housing associations can demonstrate their value and forge partnerships with the NHS in their local area.

Building Safety Bill: member briefing. This Bill will introduce significant changes to building safety regulation. This briefing summarises the key points for housing associations.

#KeepTheLifeline campaign materials. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation are leading the #KeepTheLifeline campaign stop the £20 per week cut to Universal Credit payments from October. Access materials support the campaign.

SHIFT Environment: providing environmental reporting services, and consultancy for housing associations. Providing environmental reporting services, specialising in consultancy for housing associations.

Help us build a national picture of diversity in social housing by completing our EDI data tool. Olive Jones, Director of People at the National Housing Federation (NHF) reviews how member housing associations can help us build a national picture of diversity in social housing by completing our EDI data tool.

Simultaneous evacuation: updated guidance from the NFCC. The National Fire Chiefs Council has updated their guidance on simultaneous evacuation in high rise residential buildings, introducing key changes.

NHF releases ethnicity pay gap data for the first time. The National Housing Federation (NHF) has for the first time released data on our ethnicity pay gap, as part of a drive to improve Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across the organisation.

Claiming Universal Credit during the pandemic: what more can housing associations do to help? Justin Freeman, Director of Income Maximisation at ForHousing, explains the importance of involving tenants and hearing about their experiences with Universal Credit in order to make real positive change.

Lessons on tackling discrimination and fostering inclusion within communities (webinar). Webinar discussing how action L&Q is taking to strengthen the voice of residents within housing associations to help tackle discrimination.

4 in 5 social tenants struggle to pay for essentials on Universal Credit. A recent NHF survey examining claimants' experiences of claiming Universal Credit during the pandemic shows that 4 in 5 social tenants struggle to pay for essentials, including food, on Universal Credit.

Options for homeless individuals needing to self-isolate. MHCLG have provided further advice on options for homeless individuals needing to self-isolate.

How Greater Manchester Housing Providers are getting ready for a post-pandemic world. Yvonne Castle, Chief Executive of Johnnie Johnson Housing, explores why housing is at the heart of coronavirus recovery plans across Greater Manchester. 

Universal Credit: claiming during the coronavirus pandemic. Review the findings and recommendations from the largest survey of people living in social housing claiming Universal Credit during the coronavirus pandemic.

New research on adapting allocations policies in response to the coronavirus crisis. We surveyed housing associations on changes to their allocations approach during the pandemic

Government consultation on proposed changes to the Energy Company Obligation . The government is currently consulting on the structure of the forthcoming Energy Company Obligation scheme and the NHF will be responding on behalf of the sector.

Defining net zero for social housing: discussion paper. Read our discussion paper on defining net zero for housing associations and review questions for NHF members to help our decarbonisation work.

Summary of current self-isolation guidance for staff. We’ve summarised the latest information for fully vaccinated health and social care staff and critical workers, including how to contact MHCLG if you think your staff are eligible for exemptions.

All-Party Parliamentary Group on Ending Homelessness report into Housing First rollout. The APPG on Ending Homelessness has launched a report on its inquiry into what is needed to scale up Housing First nationally.

Kerslake Commission on Homelessness and Rough sleeping - interim report published. This report from the Commision - of which the NHF is a part - includes examples of savings brought about by homelessness prevention.

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans consultation: our response. Read our response to the government's consultation on Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans.

Meet the Regulator. Hear about how regulation in the social housing sector works currently and the changes the Social Housing White Paper is introducing.

Latest coronavirus guidance and information for housing associations. As rules and guidelines develop to reflect the changing situation, we have summarised the announcements which affect housing associations.

Meeting the domestic abuse requirements proposed in the social housing white paper. This webinar was organised by our National Domestic Abuse Core Group. It explores the domestic abuse requirements within the social housing white paper and how members can meet these requirements. 

Is your organisation meeting the required financial services regulations? Phil Elvy, Executive Director of Finance at Great Places Housing Group, explains why it is important for housing association staff who provide advice to residents on debt or household budgeting to be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority.

The NHF responded to a consultation on changes to audit and corporate governance which will see all housing associations with an income over £100m being classed as Public Interest Entities. The NHF responded to a consultation on changes to audit and corporate governance which will see all housing associations with an income over £100m being classed as Public Interest Entities.

Engaging with your Local Government Pension Scheme Fund - actions for housing associations.

What the upcoming Social Housing Pension Scheme valuations results could mean for housing associations. The Social Housing Pension Scheme funding valuation is due this month. The expected deficit might lead the Pensions Regulator to ask employers to pay more and impact housing associations.

Financial Reporting Council’s Periodic Review of FRS102 and potential change to lease accounting. The Financial Reporting Council is changing accounting rules, impacting the reporting of leases, including tenancies and shared ownership leases.

Coronavirus testing . Updates about all types of coronavirus testing.

Modern methods of construction (MMC) for smaller housing associations. Exploring the opportunities for smaller housing associations in using MMC to build new homes.

Tax update: Residential Property Developer Tax. HM Treasury have launched a consultation on the policy design of a Residential Property Developer Tax to be introduced from 1 April 2022.

VAT grouping consultation – no changes expected following sector response. HM Treasury have decided not to consult further on possible changes to UK VAT grouping rules following responses to the recent call for evidence.

Changes to dissolution clause under Model Rules. Following discussions with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the NHF has agreed to update its Model Rules for charitable Registered Providers.

Design and build companies for VAT purposes: the importance of getting it right. We've summarised some of the key issues and areas that must be considered when setting up design and build companies for VAT purposes.

Environmental, Social and Governance reporting – our experiences of early adoption. Chief Financial Officer of Optivo, Sarah Smith, reflects on some of the challenges they've faced in producing their first Environmental, Social and Governance report.

How boards can take the lead on risk and assurance. Author of our new book on risk and assurance, Kelsey Walker, explains the importance for board members to go beyond their traditional financial risk management.

Committed to rural communities. The Rural Housing Alliance share their revised rural pledge and introduce the Parish Councillors’ Guide to Rural Affordable Housing.

Help us build a national picture of diversity of housing association staff in England. We have extended the deadline for members to submit their equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) data tool by Friday 8 October. 

Building Safety Bill: initial NHF response. The Building Safety Bill, published on Monday 5 July, sets out the legislation for the new building safety regulatory regime to ensure the safety of people and their homes. Read our initial response and next steps.

Sustainability Strategy Group . Providing strategic steer at a national level for our work on climate change and sustainability, ensuring that our priorities reflect the priorities of the housing association sector.

Non-Executive Director recruitment. Embedding the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion in the board recruitment process.

How are rural housing associations making a long-term commitment to their communities? Today marks the start of Rural Housing Week, our annual campaign that celebrates the vital work that housing associations do in rural areas.

Remedial works, shared owners and sub-letting – taking a sector-wide approach. Read our briefing for housing associations on how the sector could provide greater consistency for shared owners who need to sub-let their homes in buildings awaiting remedial works or EWS1 forms.

Aster Group/LGBTQ+ network.

Three months into the decarbonisation project - what have we learned? An update on the National Housing Federation's decarbonisation work.

Response to ITV investigation. The NHF’s response to the ITV News housing investigation

Briefing and consultation on NHF Renters’ Reform strategy for supported housing and temporary accommodation. We are seeking feedback from our members on our Renters' Reform strategy. 

Diversity on boards: how equality and inclusion in the boardroom can transform an organisation. Hear first-hand from board members who have experienced the impact that improving equality, diversity and inclusion in the boardroom can have on an organisation.

Social Housing White Paper – member briefing and actions for housing associations. Our updated briefing outlines what steps members can take alongside each measure of the Social Housing White Paper.

PAS 9980: Fire risk appraisal and assessment of external wall construction and cladding consultation – our response. We have submitted our response to the government’s consultation on the new code of practice for fire risk appraisal and assessment of external wall construction and cladding of existing blocks of flats.

Decent Homes Standard review: comments on ‘reasonable state of repair’ – National Housing Federation response to MHCLG review. MHCLG sought input on the issue of the requirement in the existing Decent Homes Standard that the property be in a ‘reasonable state of repair’. This response addresses this issue.

Why we must all do more to support LGBTQ+ colleagues and customers this Pride month. Steven McIntyre, Chief Executive of Stonewall Housing, reflects on steps we can all take to be more inclusive this Pride month. 

Board Appraisal: The importance of honest conversations.

Countering Fraud.

Our response to the Housing Ombudsman’s call for evidence on damp and mould . The Housing Ombudsman has asked for evidence about damp and mould in social housing. This is the response of the National Housing Federation to that call for evidence.

The new model of shared ownership and First Homes – changes to planning policy. The government has provided further details on the new shared ownership model and First Homes programme. We’ve summarised the key information and how this will affect planning policy. 

Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) – upcoming regional meetings . DAHA will be holding their regional meetings during June and July.

Harry’s Pledge – the commitment to carers one year on. One year on from the launch of Harry's Pledge, founder Julie Doyle reflects on the progress the sector has made for those who need care and those who provide it.

Housing associations' statement on evictions and support for residents. Housing associations have made a permanent commitment to residents, that no one will be evicted from their home as a result of financial hardship.

How can we keep children and young people safe and support them to achieve their potential? Exploring the impact of the pandemic and other factors such as temporary and overcrowded housing on adverse childhood experiences and the role of housing associations in ensuring they "see the child" in service design and delivery. Description

NHF Events Code of Conduct. All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and volunteers at our events are required to agree with the following code of conduct.

Equality, diversity and inclusion statement.

How much does your housing association contribute to the local and national economy? Find out using the updated Local Economic Impact Calculator.

Succession planning and board recruitment for smaller housing associations. The first in a series of webinars delivered as part of our new extra governance support for smaller housing associations explores succession planning and board recruitment.

Together with Tenants: The journey so far, experiences of residents, staff and board members. Residents, housing associations and their board members share insights into their Together with Tenants journey and what we can learn as we take it forward within our own organisations.

Housing Ombudsman report on dealing with cladding complaints. The new report sets out three key lessons for social landlords in dealing with complaints about cladding to ensure that the impact on all residents is recognised.

Queen’s Speech 2021: briefing for housing associations. The Queen’s Speech set out the government’s priorities and legislative agenda for the coming year.

How does lockdown lifting feel to residents in retirement housing? The lockdowns have been particularly difficult for residents living in housing for older people. Find out more about how the roadmap for lifting restrictions is affecting residents.

Launching the first Building Better framework. We're building the biggest aggregated housing association and local authority pipeline for modern methods of construction (MMC).

The impact and response to coronavirus in industrial towns. Chief Executive of Berneslai Homes, Amanda Garrard, reflects on the impact of coronavirus in the Barnsley.

One month in and our new decarbonisation project has hit the ground running. We have been hard at work establishing the infrastructure for the project and want to update you on our work so far.

What does the Queen’s Speech mean for housing? . On Tuesday 11 May, the State Opening of Parliament took place. Find out more about the specific announcements for housing and what they mean for housing associations.

Introducing our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion data tool. By using the tool and then using the data, housing associations can work out where they need to improve the most, set ambitious targets, and figure out what mechanisms for change are most impactful.

Our response to the compulsory vaccine consultation. The government recently ran a consultation on making vaccination a condition of deployment in older adult care homes. Read our response.

Guidance on possession proceedings and evictions. We’ve summarised changes on evictions and notice periods that will come into force from June 2021

Response to the government’s changes to eviction notice periods . Our response to MHCLG's news release titled 'Support for renters continues with longer notice periods'

NHF response to the Queen's Speech. We look forward to working with the government to ensure social housing residents are always listened to, but hope to see full legislation on the Social Housing White Paper proposals as soon as possible.

Election Update 2021: what the results mean for housing. Melanie Pope, Public Affairs Manager at the National Housing Federation rounds up the key takeaways from the latest elections.

The Sixth Carbon Budget: a briefing for housing associations. This briefing explains what the Sixth Carbon Budget is and the key implications for housing associations.

What the UK Shared Prosperity Fund could mean for housing associations. Find out what the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, launching in 2022, could mean for housing associations.

Governance questions frequently asked by smaller housing associations – and our answers. Part of our extra governance support for smaller housing associations, available to all members of the National Housing Federation with fewer than 2,000 properties.

New EDI networks. We are launching a new national CEO network and a new network for operational leads on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).

We’re calling for housing and homelessness support staff to get visa extensions . This week the NHF, alongside Homeless Link, wrote to the government to request visa extensions for housing and homelessness support staff in England.

Extra governance support for smaller housing associations. A new service for National Housing Federation members with fewer than 2,000 properties.

Introducing extra governance support for smaller housing associations. An important part of our enhanced offer for smaller housing associations, ensuring you get great value from your NHF membership.

The road to improved engagement – Arches’ Story. Arches is on a journey to improve resident engagement and the adoption of the Together with Tenants Charter is an important step.

Providing and managing sites for gypsies and travellers. This webinar examined key success factors in extending provision and raising standards of this accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers.

Five key takeaways from the Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2021 conference. With COP26, discussions about a green recovery and stronger climate targets, Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2021 was absolutely vital.

Life & Progress: supporting residents with access to counselling, professional advice and guidance. Life & Progress have pioneered a unique support service for residents, the Tenant Support and Wellbeing Service.

Working together with residents on the net zero carbon agenda. While housing providers across the country stress-test business plans and get to grips with the new technology needed to reach net zero carbon, are we doing enough to consider what net zero carbon means for people and places?

Coronavirus – updates on testing, vaccinations and easing lockdown. During this webinar we hear the latest advice and guidance on key coronavirus issues, particularly options for staff testing and the roadmap for easing lockdown as it relates to supported housing and general needs.

Government consultation on vaccines for care home staff. The government has launched a five-week consultation on making receipt of the coronavirus vaccine a condition for staff deployment in care homes for older people.

On the road to net zero: Hastoe sets out its New-Build Standard . Hastoe are setting new minimum build requirements for new homes above current building regulations.

NHF and Homeless Link webinar (recorded 12 April 2021). During this webinar, we hear about good practice in housing management, partnerships and joint working as well as case studies from three social landlord providers involved in the delivery of Housing First. 

Universal Credit in a time of crisis. Find out more about our research on income collection and support for tenants during the coronavirus crisis.

Universal Credit in a time of crisis. An exploration of rent collection and support by housing associations during the coronavirus crisis.

Our submission to HCLG Committee inquiry into long-term funding of adult social care. We have submitted a response on behalf of the housing association sector to the Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee inquiry into the long-term funding of adult social care.

Creating a baseline for equality, diversity and inclusion. Find out why it's so important to have an EDI baseline in the housing sector with Sonja.

Leadership and control.

Board Members' Resource Pack.

Board Members' Resource Pack - operational set.

Board Members' Resource Pack - governance/induction set.

Shared ownership campaign transfer: updates on the NHF decision making, opportunities and ambitions for year two. We are delighted to announce that Full Communications have agreed to be the new campaign lead organisation.

Having somewhere safe and affordable to live must be part of post-coronavirus recovery plans. Francesca Albanese highlights three recent reports focusing on people experiencing homelessness and examines solutions to tackle systemic causes.

New model for shared ownership and First Homes - briefing for housing associations. Our briefing for NHF members on the recent government responses to consultations on new model for shared ownership and First Homes.

New shared ownership model and update on the delivery of First Homes . This morning the Government released the outcomes of two separate consultations, confirming important details of the new Shared Ownership model, and the delivery of First Homes via developer contributions.

Together with Tenants: tenant and resident engagement in smaller housing associations. Focusing on the practicalities of implementing Together with Tenants in smaller housing associations, hearing examples from organisations who are already on this journey.

How not to be having the same conversations on race in 10 years’ time. There were so many interesting and important sessions at the National Housing Summit last week, but one that has particularly stayed with me was ‘Rethinking the sector’s approach to racial equality’.

Net zero by 2050: a decarbonisation roadmap for housing associations. Announcing a major new programme of NHF work on decarbonisation.

Funding for green retrofitting . Hear directly from the government about funding opportunities for green retrofit work on housing association properties, focusing on plans for the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.

Reflections on Everyone In: when we work together as a sector there is nothing we can’t achieve. Martyn Hale from Citizen explains how a quick change of direction helped to protect homeless people in Coventry as part of the ‘Everyone In’ scheme one year on from its launch.

Secretary of State for Housing Robert Jenrick addresses the National Housing Summit 2021. Jenrick lays out the government’s key housing priorities and takes questions from across the housing sector

Research on income collection: Housing association changes in response to Universal Credit. Research into any changes our members have made to pre-tenancy and income collection policies and processes in response to Universal Credit. We want to share the learnings from other housing associations regarding approaches they feel work when it comes to the new benefit system.

Green Paper: Transforming Public Procurement - our submission to the Cabinet Office. Submission based on feedback from procurement professionals working within the housing association sector, focusing on issues which might impact specifically on housing associations.

Together with Tenants - quality webinar. Staff and residents from Rooftop Housing Group, Platform Housing Group and WHG reflect on their experiences and challenges so far, and as we consider how to truly embed Together with Tenants across the sector.

Our International Women's Day tips and advice. This week we celebrated International Women's Day and several female colleagues within our organisation would like to share their biggest tips and advice for other women in the sector. 

Tax update: the importance of the Capital Goods Scheme for your housing association . Keeping information related to the Capital Goods Scheme up to date may not be high on your priority list. Our taxation advisers RSM, explain why it is important to retain the information now, to prevent lost opportunities in the future.

Tax update: homeworking and employment tax considerations. Homeworking has become the norm for many of us over the past year. Our tax advisors, RSM, explain what implications this new way of working could have for you and your employees.

Spring Budget 2021 – update for housing finance professionals . Our tax advisors, RSM, give us a round down of the key points for housing associations from the most recent Spring Budget and advise what could happen in upcoming updates.

A new guide for housing associations to providing fantastic homes for Gypsies and Travellers. Tap into the huge expertise which exists among colleagues in the housing sector

Budget 2021: briefing for housing associations. Further detail on each of the key announcements from the Chancellor's Budget 2021, focused on our original calls: to build back safer, better, and stronger. 

The LIBOR benchmark interest rate is ending – what does this mean for housing associations? UK Finance detail what steps housing associations should be taking now to ensure they are ready for the end of LIBOR.

FPAG’s regional forums – get involved today. The Financial Policy Advisory Group (FPAG) are aiming to improve connectivity within the sector.

Advantage Utilities Ltd: procuring, reducing and managing all aspects of energy and utilities. Procuring, reducing and managing all aspects of energy and utilities for complex multi-site portfolios.

How to tackle the rise in women at risk of homelessness and rough sleeping. Rough sleeping is dangerous for everyone, but the challenges faced by homeless women have been amplified by the coronavirus crisis.

MHCLG complaints process campaign launched. Following on from a commitment made in the Social Housing White Paper, MHCLG have launched a campaign with the aim of raising awareness among social housing residents of the complaints process, helping them to feel empowered to make complaints where needed. 

We must make a renewed case to integrate supported housing and mental health services . In the months before the coronavirus crisis, more than 80% of adult critical care beds in England’s hospitals were occupied. Look Ahead has long advocated for out-of-hospital care, citing the improved physical and mental health outcomes experienced by the people we support.

NHF response to the Chancellor's Budget 2021. This budget is an important step in helping the country get back on its feet, as we navigate our recovery from the pandemic. 

National Housing Federation’s Together with Tenants now covering more than two million homes. The National Housing Federation’s Together with Tenants initiative has now been formally adopted by 165 housing associations, covering more than two million homes.

Together with Tenants - voice and influence and accountability (webinar). Following the launch and national rollout of Together with Tenants we are holding webinars on each of the six priorities. This webinar will focus on voice and influence and accountability.

Why it’s so important to encourage your minority ethnic tenants to complete the 2021 Census. If ever there was a more meaningful time to promote the completion of the national Census, then it is now, in 2021, when inequality is so high on the agenda.

Our response to the government’s annual rough sleeping snapshot. The government's Everybody In initiative has had a significant effect on reducing the number of people who are homeless on our streets but what else do we need to do.

A history of LGBTQ+ housing in England. During LGBTQ+ History Month, we consider the role our sector plays in creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people to thrive.

The Homes at the heart campaign shows there is a new coalition of support for social housing. The campaign was a huge success thanks to everyone who helped make the case.

Decent Homes Standard review underway. MHCLG has established a sounding board, which includes the National Housing Federation, to review of the Decent Homes Standard.

How the Naumann Initiative is changing lives. Having a place to call home is crucial ­– but couple that with secure employment and a chance to learn and progress, that’s how you really offer someone a future.

Government announces additional £3.5bn of funding for cladding remediation. Secretary of State Robert Jenrick MP recently announced an additional £3.5bn of funding for the remediation of unsafe cladding.

Together with Tenants - relationships and communication (webinar). Following the launch and national rollout of Together with Tenants we are holding webinars on each of the six priorities. This webinar focuses on the first two - relationships and communication.

Contract Management (2nd edition).

Testing and tracing updates. See any latest information and updates on testing and tracing within the sector

How many homes did housing associations build in quarter one 2020/21? This briefing details the number of homes housing associations developed in the first quarter of 2020/21, plus numbers delivered in the twelve months to June 2020.

Fuel Poverty Strategy published. The government has published an updated fuel poverty strategy which is important to housing associations in relation to tenant support and the journey to net zero.

Local authority duty to provide support within domestic abuse safe accommodation– funding allocated. The government has allocated £125 million to local authorities to cover the costs of the new duty around the provision of support within domestic abuse safe accommodation services.

Eviction ban explained. What the lockdown means for housing associations and supported housing.

New board member induction webinar. This webinar is aimed at new board members who are new to the housing sector and would like a firmer grip on the housing world.

New statutory ‘Breathing Space’ scheme to help people in problem debt. The Debt Respite Scheme is a new statutory scheme to provide ‘breathing space’ to help people in problem debt - including rent arrears - to better manage their finances, seek professional debt advice and reach sustainable solutions.

Unlocking brownfield sites through 'PropTech': a solution to the housing crisis? There’s enough readily available brownfield land to deliver over 1m homes, so why are we not building the homes we need? Combining technology with new business models has the potential to completely restructure and evolve our industry.

Our response to Robert Jenrick's building safety funding announcement. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, responds to the new £3.5bn fund from government to fix dangerous cladding.

Feedback on the vaccination programme for care and supported housing residents and staff. See updates on our members' front line staff in supported and sheltered housing getting the vaccination,

Evaluation of Midlands Voluntary Right to Buy pilot.

Reflections over a year of coronavirus. The work that has been done over the past year is a huge testament to how much can be achieved when we work together.

New National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and National Model Design Code Consultation. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) have launched a consultation proposing a number of changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Strategies to support mental health . The coronavirus pandemic has pushed every social landlord to ask the question, how can we better support the mental health of residents and staff? This webinar explores three different approaches across general needs and supported housing.

Putting residents’ voices at the heart of decision-making. Bringing the voices of residents from all tenures, regions and life experiences into conversations about the direction of our organisations, and the sector as a whole, gives me hope for the future.

What’s next for the Future Homes Standard. Even though the challenges ahead are significant, the benefits are huge: warmer homes, cheaper fuel bills, healthier and happier residents, greener communities and a better planet.

Coronavirus guidance for supported housing. This summary covers information on the latest guidance, vaccines and testing, shielding, prevention and visits for supported housing providers.

The future of rural housing communities. Reflections on how new rural housing policy, demographic changes, the current economic climate and the coronavirus crisis is creating both opportunities and challenges for rural housing associations.

Putting social housing on the Secretary of State’s New Year agenda. This week we held a roundtable with the Secretary of State for MHCLG, Robert Jenrick, the new chair of Homes England, and key officials, to discuss our sector's development ambitions and desire to work in partnership with the government to deliver for our communities.

EWS1 forms. Read our submission to the RICS consultation on the valuation of properties in multi-storey, multi-occupancy residential buildings with cladding.

MHCLG to launch a complaints process campaign. Following on from a commitment made in the Social Housing White Paper, MHCLG is due to launch a campaign

What does the new Future Homes Standard mean for building regulations? The government has published the key outcome of its 2019 consultation on the Future Homes Standard. Find out more here.

Summary of the Future Buildings Standard consultation. As part of the process of developing the Future Buildings Standard, MHCLG have launched a consultation on changes to the Building Regulations, specifically affecting ventilation and conservation of fuel and power.

Vantage UAV. Vantage UAV is a drone services and solution company with operation nationwide that can provide support to NHF members on asset management, building safety, development and regeneration.

Our response to the Public Accounts Committee inquiry into rough sleeping during and beyond the pandemic. The Public Accounts Committee ran an inquiry into the government’s rehousing of rough sleepers during the coronavirus pandemic.

Government consultation on changes to the Mental Health Act. The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) is inviting submissions to a consultation on proposed changes to the Mental Health Act (MHA).

Vaccines. We are working to ensure the government’s testing and vaccination programme prioritises all forms of supported housing, for both residents and staff.

Securing Directors and Officers Liability Insurance. The National Housing Federation is working with PIB Insurance Broker to support our members to procure Directors and Officers Liability Insurance from 1 April 2021.

RICS consultation on EWS1 forms. Member briefing on the proposed guidance from RICS on the future application of the External Wall System (EWS1) form.

Planning for the Future - an update from MHCLG. Ahead of publishing its consultation response in the spring, the government has advised that any policy changes and reforms arising from the Planning for the Future proposals will take time to implement, and that planners should not delay their delivery of local plans.

Spring Budget 2021: National Housing Federation submission. We're asking the government to create jobs, boost the economy and improve people’s lives by building back safer, better and stronger.

Riverside / Mental Health Champions. We wanted to make our workplace a safe environment where colleagues felt comfortable and at ease talking about their mental health.

Peabody / Reverse Mentoring pilot. Peabody have launched an innovative pilot programme which sees Board members and the senior leadership team being mentored by junior staff members on diversity and inclusion.

One Housing / Recruitment processes. At One Housing we want to ensure that our recruitment processes are as accessible and inclusive as possible. We also hope to address a lack of representation of women and people from a BAME background in our senior management teams through positive action.

Hyde Group / Future Leaders’ Programme. Last autumn, The Hyde Group resident engagement team launched their ‘Future Leaders’ Programme’ to encourage younger residents from more diverse backgrounds to get involved in Hyde’s delivery of resident services.

Clarion / Driving up employment. Launched in January 2016, Love London Working is a programme that supports long-term unemployed and economically inactive Londoners into work.

Catalyst / Cultural integration, engagement and wellbeing. A growing number of older Asian people in Southall no longer live in traditional family structures, leading them to feel lonely and socially isolated.  

Anchor Hanover / Older LGBT+ people’s needs. Older LGBT+ people’s housing and care needs aren’t always met, with the result they refrain from disclosing their sexual orientation and/or gender identity when accessing services due to a fear of discrimination, stigma and harassment.

Together Housing Group / Fresh eyes on the Board. We had a lack of diversity within our governance structures and decided it was time to do something about it.

Six Town Housing / Hearsay our way. Six Town Housing took steps to engage with deaf and hard of hearing customers.

Six Town Housing / Speak my language. Six Town Housing has produced a social distancing film and language translation boards to try to reach as many customers as possible to understand our commitment to keeping our customers and staff safe. 

Smoke alarms in domestic properties. We have responded to an MHCLG consultation on domestic smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Understanding Assurance.

Risk Management.

To meet the UK’s targets for carbon emissions, we need long-term certainty for retrofit . The social housing sector is well placed to deliver retrofit at volume but the scale of the task ahead poses new challenges, notably the shortfall in long-term funding.

Response to the Daily Mail's cladding campaign. The Daily Mail has launched a campaign to support leaseholders affected by cladding issues. Please see our response below as we support their campaign.

Understanding Development Appraisal.

Housing Standards Handbook.

Coronavirus advice. We’ve collated the most relevant official advice on coronavirus for housing associations.

2020 illustrated the importance of investment in vital independent living. It’s been a really tough year and still I can look back fondly on the way we rose to the Covid-19 challenges in Silva Homes’ independent living schemes.

New shared ownership model. Read our response to the MHCLG consultation on a proposed new model of shared ownership.

Roundtable of the Brexit Business Taskforce. As the government prepares for the UK's exit from the European Union on 31 December 2020, the NHF has been raising with ministers, the potential implications of Brexit on housing associations. 

Building Safety Fund. The government has extended the deadline for claiming from the Building Safety Fund to 30 June 2021. Find out everything you need to know and how it affects you.

Influencing insights - media relations (webinar). Charlotte Deshmukh, Public Relations Manager at the National Housing Federation provides an update on the latest news and insight from the NHF and discussed managing reputation and dealing with local and national media.

Lessons learned from the Rough Sleeper Accommodation Programme roundtables. We held two roundtable sessions for over 60 of our housing association members to feedback on their experience of bidding into the 2020/21 Rough Sleeper Accommodation Programme (RSAP).

What the Energy White Paper means for housing associations . On Monday 14 December, the government published its long-awaited Energy White Paper ‘Powering our Net Zero Future’.

What next with the Social Housing White Paper? This webinar explores the implications of the white paper for the social housing sector and our residents, and how we can work best work with the government and the Regulator.

Lockdown funding for rough sleepers. The government has announced the Protect Programme – £15m of funding for rough sleeper accommodation available until March 2021.

How housing associations are responding to increases in domestic abuse. This webinar explores responses by housing associations to the rise in domestic abuse during the lockdowns and what we can learn as the pandemic continues.

Modern methods of construction – building the social housing sector’s awareness and confidence. There is an ongoing drive to encourage housing associations to adopt modern methods of construction (MMC) in their delivery programmes. Mark Farmer, CEO of Cast Consultancy & MHCLG MMC Champion, sets out the progress that has been made since 2017 to grow the confidence of the sector in adopting MMC.

What the Climate Change Committee’s Sixth Carbon Budget means for housing associations. The Climate Change Committee has published their Sixth Carbon Budget, including some policy recommendations to the government which may have implications for housing associations’ work on decarbonisation.

Tax update: changes to off-payroll working (IR35) from April 2021. The government has passed legislation confirming that the new IR35 rules will be introduced from April 2021. It is important that housing associations plan for these changes and that processes are in place to ensure that the new obligations are met. Our tax advisors RSM explain how this will work in practice.

VAT grouping – Call for Evidence. HM Treasury has released a Call for Evidence in relation to VAT grouping, and in particular the criteria relating to establishment, eligibility and registration. The NHF has responded to this on behalf of its members, with the help of tax advisers RSM, who explain the detail behind this consultation here.

VAT grouping consultation – NHF response. HM Treasury issued a Call for Evidence last month in relation to VAT grouping. We have responded and recommended that the UK does not introduce compulsory VAT grouping.

Equality, diversity and inclusion report launch (webinar). Join us for this NHF member only webinar to discuss the Insight Report findings and how we can work together as a sector to make change happen.

Raising accessibility standards for new homes. We submitted our response to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s accessibility standards for new homes consultation.

Three quarters of housing associations already on journey to net zero. Almost three quarters (74%) of housing associations are already drawing up plans for how to make their homes 'net zero' by 2050, according to a new survey.

Pensions update: Local Government Pension Scheme. Recent developments mean employers have more options for managing Local Government Pension Scheme assets and liabilities. Our pensions advisors Isio explain the detail.

Tax update: Domestic Reverse Charge and Construction Industry Scheme. The Domestic Reverse Charge for the construction industry is set to be introduced on 1 March 2021, with new rules bringing practical and financial challenges for housing associations. HMRC is also running an awareness drive about organisations' obligations under the Construction Industry Scheme. Our tax advisers RSM outline the detail.

Net zero homes. Research report outlines where housing associations are on the path to net zero carbon emissions.

Pensions update: SHPS funding valuation and new Defined Benefit funding code. The NHF’s pensions advisors Isio provide an update on the Social Housing Pension Scheme funding valuation and the potential impact on employers, plus the Pensions Regulator’s new funding code for Defined Benefit schemes, and assess the steps employers can take to manage risks.

Making Tax Digital for VAT - the final requirement of digital links. Most housing associations are successfully submitting their VAT returns under the Making Tax Digital regime. Arguably, however, the real challenge will come when the ‘digital link’ soft landing period ends in April 2021. Our tax advisors RSM explain this in more detail.

'Going concern' standard revisedGoing concern’ standard revised – what this means for housing associations. The Financial Reporting Council has revised its ‘going concern’ standard which increases the level of responsibility on organisations' auditors. Julia Crowe, Head of Social Housing at Crowe UK LLP, explains the detail and the implications for housing associations.

Introducing the NHF Code of Governance 2020 (webinar). This webinar set out the changes in the new Code of Governance 2020, why we made those changes, and discusses what compliance and best practice looks like for different members.

How many homes did housing associations build in 2019/20? This briefing details the number of homes housing associations developed in 2019/20.

How many homes did housing associations build in quarter one 2019/20? This briefing details the number of homes housing associations developed in the third quarter of 2019/20.

Rising to the EPC C challenge. As part of the wider ambition to meet the ‘net-zero-carbon’ challenge by 2050, social housing providers have been set a target to attain a C rating on Energy Performance Certificates by 2035.

Views from our advisory group. Members of the Finance Policy Advisory Group provide the latest updates, insights and thoughts on key finance topics.

Rising to the Standard: why all investing housing associations should adopt the new Sustainability Reporting Standard. Andy Smith of The Good Economy writes about the importance and significance of the Standard and why housing associations should adopt it.

Building Safety Bill – implications for the sector. On 20 July 2020, the government published the draft Building Safety Bill. Phil Day, Group Finance Director at Guinness Partnership outlines FPAG's views on the possible implcations for the housing sector.

The impact of coronavirus: what will be the main challenges for the sector in 2021? We've all had differing experiences of the last nine months but one of the positives is how the sector has shared information and collaborated in developing our response to coronavirus. James Walder, Executive Director of Finance & Business Support at North Star Housing Group, shares thoughts from FPAG on the main issues for the sector as we move towards 2021.

It’s never been more important to collaborate and share our ideas. March 2021 will not only serve as an anniversary of sorts as it’ll be 12 months since the pandemic changed our lives, but it’s also the date of the NHF’s next Finance Conference. Michelle Allott, Finance Director at Together Housing Group, Chair of the NW regional finance forum and member of FPAG, says it’s never been more important to share our ideas as we continue to mitigate the effects of the ongoing crisis.

An update on LIBOR reform and the transition to SONIA. LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) will cease to be published from the end of 2021 and although SONIA has been agreed as the replacement rate (and is already being used for new transactions) there is still a lot work to be done on the transition, especially for legacy agreements. Matt Cooper, Tax and Treasury Director at Places for People, delves into the detail.

Changes to the planning process. Wholesale changes to the planning environment may soon be on their way, with the aim of speeding up the planning process so more homes are built sooner. While time will tell if what is introduced works, there are some significant changes on the horizon which should be considered in business planning now. David Armstrong, Chief Financial Officer at Flagship Group and Steven Brook, Chief Executive at Harrogate Housing Association, assess the detail.

The new Affordable Homes Programme – what are the potential impacts on financial planning? The new Affordable Homes programme for 2021-2026 was announced by the government in September – with some potentially very significant changes. David Armstrong of Flagship Group and Phil Elvy of Great Places assess the detail and the finance implications for housing associations.

Housing associations helping to end homelessness. The coronavirus outbreak has demonstrated that we can act fast to address homelessness if there is a collective will and strong leadership from the government.

Research report on how housing associations use the Housing First model and recommendations for delivery. This report explores how housing associations are using the Housing First model as a means to address homelessness.

Spending Review 2020. Our briefing provides an overview of the government's spending plans relevant to housing associations.

Coronavirus tier system: what it means for housing associations. As England returns to a tiered system of coronavirus restrictions, we've set our what it means for housing associations in all four tiers.

What the new Code of Governance means for housing associations with diversified structures. A code of governance is a vital tool to ensure all aspects of the organisation are guided by consistent principles of good governance.

Our response to the HCLG Committee inquiry into the impact of coronavirus on the homelessness and private rented sector. The Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee has launched an inquiry into the impact of coronavirus on the homelessness and private rented sector.

Governing by example – a fresh challenge for housing association boards. It’s a well-known saying that ‘leaders get the teams they deserve’. Perhaps we need to turn this around, and ask whether boards get the organisational culture they deserve?

Domestic abuse safe accommodation fund reopened. The government has reopened the domestic abuse safe accommodation fund. Find out who is eligible for grants.

Coronavirus testing, winter planning and infection control in supported housing settings (webinar). This webinar focused on operating whole scheme testing, partnership working, clinical governance and infection prevention, dealing with staffing pressures and Test and Trace. Housing associations share their strategies for protecting residents and staff and there will be plenty of time for questions.

Spending Review 2020: housing measures announced. Summary of housing measures announced by the Chancellor in his Spending Review on 25 November. 

Social Housing White Paper - summary of key measures. We welcome the Social Housing White Paper and its focus on resident voice and influence, aligning with the work the sector has been doing to achieve greater accountability to residents through the new 2020 Code of Governance and the Together with Tenants initiative.

Social Housing White Paper – member briefing. A summary of the key measures in the Social Housing White Paper, setting out the NHF’s view, detailing the measures in each chapter and our responses to these, and outlining next steps.

How representative is the housing association workforce of the communities we serve? . Explore our new report: Equality, diversity and inclusion: an insight review of housing association staff in England.

How can housing associations create more inclusive workplaces and communities? Equality, diversity and inclusion in our sector won’t be achieved by just a campaign or an initiative, it requires each of us to make fundamental and lasting changes.

EDI in housing. Our report taking a look at how equality, diversity and inclusion looks within the housing association sector. 

How Soha is reacting to the SHPS deficit increase. Nasreen Hussain, Director of Finance and Resources at Soha Housing, outlines how her organisation reacted to the SHPS deficit rise, and updates on the new defined benefit funding code.

The Rent Standard 2020 – are you up to date with permitted exemptions and rent flexibility? Paul Weston, Chief Financial Officer at Housing and Care 21 writes about the the new Rent Standard and sets out some of the aspects and nuances that are important for housing associations and thei boards to consider.

The Social Housing White Paper (webinar). The government has published the Social Housing White Paper which sets out a ‘charter for social housing residents’ and aims to deliver the improvement in transparency and accountability promised in the 2018 green paper.

Panorama. Response from the National Housing Federation on the Panorama episode "The Home I Can't Afford".

NHF response to the Spending Review. Statement from Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation

The Social Housing Green Paper – our response. We’ve published our response, on behalf of the sector, along with a seven-point summary of our key recommendations.
 

Response to the Housing Select Committee report on the draft Building Safety Bill. Read our response to the Housing Select Committee report on the Building Safety Bill.

New shared ownership model consultation. The new model aims to deliver on the government’s manifesto commitment of a “fairer, more transparent” form of shared ownership.

Why we need a retrofit revolution in the south west – and beyond. Tackling decarbonisation by retrofitting homes not only creates warmer homes, it also creates jobs and give a much-needed boost to the economy.

Social Housing White Paper. A summary of the white paper proposals and our initial response and next steps.

New Sustainability Reporting Standard for housing associations. A new Sustainability Reporting Standard for social housing was published on 10 November. This Standard provides a common framework which social landlords can use to report on their environmental and social impact, and their governance arrangements (ESG).

Supporting resident mental health in a pandemic. At a time when many clients’ mental health has deteriorated, maintaining contact has been key.

The government's plan for a Green Industrial Revolution. We've summarised the government's plan for a green industrial revolution, highlighting the main points for housing associations.

Information for leaseholders: frequently asked questions. We've answered some commonly asked questions that leaseholders have raised regarding remedial works, shared owners, mortgages and valuations, and the Building Safety Act.

FAQs for leaseholders.

What leaseholders can do to help.

What are housing associations doing to support leaseholders and find a solution to the problem?

What EWS1 forms are and do I need one for my building?

Decarbonising heat in homes. Read our response to the BEIS Select Committee inquiry into decarbonisation.

Our response to the government's White Paper. Our Chief Executive, Kate Henderson, responds to the government's Social Housing White Paper released today.

Together with Tenants (residents webinar). This webinar is an opportunity for residents to come together and hear more about Together with Tenants and our plans for change.

Responding to domestic abuse during lockdown and beyond. It has been well publicised that the coronavirus lockdown, whether in full or part of the tiered approach, has seen more incidences of domestic abuse.

Housing association boards have a duty to instil a culture of ‘safety first’. The Code of Governance 2020 has a new focus on ensuring the safety of residents, staff and visitors

What we can learn from the American election. Yesterday I read a post that said “make sure to wear shoes, ladies. There’s glass everywhere.” Unless you’ve been avoiding the news, the metaphorical glass smasher of the moment is obviously Kamala Harris.

The NHF Code of Governance 2020: equipping for excellence. The publication of the 2020 Code of Governance comes 25 years after the first code was produced in 1995.

The new Code of Governance reflects our commitment to resident accountability and is a strong platform for housing associations. The new Code of Governance will encourage, challenge and support housing associations to continue to strive to meet the very highest standards of governance as expectations change, underpinned by a culture of integrity, openness and inclusion.

Help us amplify our message of putting homes at the heart of our future. We’ve designed a campaign graphic that we want everyone to share on social media at the same time on the same day

Planning for the future – our consultation response. We’ve produced a briefing for members which sets out our response to the government’s consultation on its white paper, Planning for the future.

Long-term rough sleeper accommodation funding now allocated. The government has announced the funding allocations for the long-term element of the Next Steps Accommodation Programme. You can read the full details on the government’s website.

A history of BME Housing in Britain. BME housing associations play a crucial role in providing quality housing for tenants of all backgrounds.

New campaign aims to tackle fuel poverty . Last month I wrote to the Prime Minister and the UK’s ‘big six’ energy providers urging them to take steps to do more for the millions of people living in fuel poverty through the pandemic. Now we need your support to get the message out.

2020 Spending Review - the role social housing can play in recovery - briefing for MPs. Our submission to the 2020 Spending Review sets out the vital role housing associations already play in delivering these priorities – and what action and investment we need from the government, now and in the long term, to deliver even more.

The autumn national lockdown. Our initial analysis and next steps following the Prime Minister's announcement of a new national lockdown.

As the countdown to COP26 begins, where are housing associations on the journey to net zero? . With the eyes of the world on the UK, this is a unique opportunity for both the government and our sector to show real leadership.

Three tips for managing in the three-tier system. The introduction of the new three-tier system to manage local outbreaks of coronavirus across the UK presents some unique challenges for how associations can deliver their services to customers.

Interview with Corine Meier on EUSS Scheme. Video interview with Corine Meier, Tenancy Sustainment Advisor at Gloucester City Homes and volunteer at Settled – an immigration advice charity – about the EU settlement scheme and what it means for housing associations, staff and residents.

The housing sector could do more to protect the environment – but the government needs to level the playing field. We're calling for the government to introduce an industry-wide zero carbon new build standard. 

New safety requirements for residential blocks come into effect in November. We summarise changes to Approved Document B due to come into effect in November.

Update on the Spending Review and our political engagement. The government has now confirmed it will hold a one-year Spending Review next month.

Advice for the safe reopening of night homeless shelters. New government advice for the safe opening of night homeless shelters in winter during the coronavirus outbreak.

Government consultation on land ownership and control. We’re keen to hear members’ views on how public data on land ownership and control could be improved.

National Statement of Expectations for Supported Housing published. National Statement of Expectations, Supported Housing, Supported housing providers, supported housing provision, guidelines for supported housing

Making the case for a retrofit revolution – our recent political engagement. The Prime Minister has responded to our call for the government to draw up a coronavirus recovery plan that prioritised investment in green projects and green infrastructure.

The West Yorkshire mayoral election is a golden opportunity to place housing at the heart of the debate . Over the coming months, my colleagues and I will be engaging with prospective candidates and all political parties as the countdown to polling day gathers pace.

Competence for roles in the new regulatory system. The Competence Steering Group (CSG) published its final report, setting out a framework to improve the competence of those working on higher-risk buildings.

EU Settlement Scheme. This briefing sets out changes affecting EU citizens living in the UK and how to support staff and residents to apply to the EUSS.

Draft Building Safety Bill – HCLG committee submission. The NHF submitted a response to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee as part of their pre-legislative scrutiny of the draft Building Safety Bill.

The Together with Tenants new report. We have been working with residents and our members to establish a four-point plan for change, including a new charter that sets out in clear terms what residents can and should expect from their landlord.

Lessons from early adopters: governance . This briefing shares experiences from three housing associations that have already adopted the Together with Tenants charter.

Will your organisation become a Together with Tenants adopter? Last spring 130 housing associations agreed to act as Together with Tenants early adopters – testing a plan to strengthen the relationship between housing associations and residents.

New advice from the DWP about complicated Universal Credit calculations. This update provides information from DWP to explain how Universal Credit payments are calculated based on different tenancies.

53 weeks and Universal Credit – legal case dismissed. The High Court has ruled that converting weekly rents to a monthly value for the purposes of calculating Universal Credit entitlement are neither irrational nor unlawful.

Applying for the Building Safety Fund. We provide clarification on the process for applying for funding for the removal and remediation of non-ACM combustible cladding.

How board members can help us spread the #HomesAtTheHeart message. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the work housing associations do, and to secure our sector’s role in helping the country recover from this crisis.

Fire safety consultation response. Read our response to the Home Office’s fire safety consultation on behalf of NHF members.

Journey so far.

Becoming an adopter.

Boards must act now and walk the talk on diversity and inclusion. We have a responsibility to leverage the current mood to drive change for our BAME communities – positive disruption is required to shape lasting change across our sector.

Together with Tenants rollout coming soon. We’re getting ready to roll this out across the entire sector later this month - our ambition is for all housing associations to support our Together with Tenants plan and adopt the Charter.

Government review of the Homelessness Reduction Act . The government has published its response to submissions to its call for evidence on the Homelessness Act 2017.

Next steps on 2021-26 Affordable Homes Programme. We’re raising your concerns about the impact of the new shared ownership model with the government.

Proposed changes to the planning system – our consultation response. Our response to the government’s consultation on short-term changes to the planning system.

Defined Benefit pensions consultation – NHF response. We’ve responded to the Pensions Regulator’s funding code of practice consultation on Defined Benefit pensions.

Radian and Yarlington become Abri – creating a new identity for our organisation. A rebrand is about embracing the meaning behind the change and making sure the right people are leading the way.

Building our way out: why now is the time to invest in social housing. The pandemic brought the role of our homes into sharp focus, and in doing so has made it impossible to ignore the housing emergency that has denied people a safe home when they need it most.

Housing associations as anchor institutions (webinar). In this webinar, we explore how our sector can play a leading role in shaping a social and economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic that benefits every community and leaves no one behind.

When two crises collide. Seeing our customers, our communities succeeding and our economy thriving is at the heart of what we do and that is why we support the Homes at the Heart campaign.

The benefits of a long term affordable housing programme (webinar). In this webinar we explore two recently published pieces of research that evidence the impact that a long term affordable housing programme would have.

Can shared owners lose all of their investment in their home if they don’t pay their rent? .

Why is shared ownership considered ownership?

A shared ownership lease is an assured shorthold tenancy? Is this just another form of renting?

Will existing shared owners have to pay for cladding replacement and what are EWS1 forms? Since the fire at Grenfell Tower, it has become known that thousands of buildings across the country have potentially dangerous materials on them

Measuring social value: guidance for housing associations. As not-for-profit landlords driven by social purpose, housing associations want to demonstrate social value to ensure the best outcomes for their residents.

Developing Affordable Housing (3rd edition).

Housing SORP: 2018 update.

Housing associations as anchor institutions: a toolkit. This toolkit outlines how housing associations can contribute to local communities as community anchors and includes a wide range of practical advice and insight.

The Good Food Bag doesn’t just feed families, it offers choice, develops skills and inspires confidence. Housing associations are inventsing in The Good Food Bag which is providing low cost, healthy meal kits to organisations, as well as selling directly to customers in areas of food insecurity.

Building safety for smaller housing associations (webinar). This webinar will talk through the key building safety issues for smaller housing associations.

Affordable rural homes are essential for prosperous communities. Affordable rural housing providers face a must make sure enough affordable rural homes are built to improve the diversity of the countryside, supporting a balance of income and age groups.

Securing a settled future for people facing homelessness. With the right action from the government and the will of the housing association sector, we can end homelessness, save the taxpayer money, and change lives.

Share your views to shape a new building safety competence framework. BSI, sponsored by MHCLG, is seeking input from housing associations and other stakeholders to develop an overarching competence framework for everyone working on higher-risk buildings.

Comprehensive Spending Review 2020 submission. Investment in social housing can boost the economy, create jobs and opportunities across the country, support the continuing fight against the virus and improve peoples’ lives at a time when our nation needs it most.

New £500 Test and Trace support payment . The government has announced a new package to support and enforce self-isolation.

We’re asking the government to keep the £20 increase to Universal Credit payments. In response to the coronavirus outbreak, the government increased the standard Universal Credit and Working Tax Credit payment by £20 per week, as part of the economic stimulus package in April.

Affordable Homes Programme - what does it mean? We talk to MHCLG and Homes England about the 2021-26 Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) and how it plans to build up to 180,000 new homes. 

Service Charges (5th Edition).

NHF Chair questions minister about new affordable homes programme. On 8 September 2020 NHF Chair Baroness Diana Warwick of Undercliffe questioned Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government) Lord Greenhalgh about the new affordable homes programme.

NHF Chair questions minister about changes to the planning system. On 16 September 2020, NHF Chair Baroness Diana Warwick of Undercliffe questioned Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government) Lord Greenhalgh about changes to the planning system.

The 2020 Comprehensive Spending Review - webinar. We will be preparing a formal submission to the upcoming Spending Review setting out the key ask of the sector. This webinar sets out the key elements of our submission, and provide an opportunity for members to input and feedback.

How social housing can support settled futures for Gypsy and Traveller communities (interview). An interview with Ria Armstrong at Teign Housing about the role social housing can play in settled futures for Gypsy and Traveller communities.

How partnership working can help housing associations tackle domestic abuse (interview). A video interview with Calico Group CEO Anthony Duerden and Alex Atkinson, Head of Support Services at SafeNet about how they work together to tackle domestic abuse.

The government has an opportunity to meet its manifesto commitment to end rough sleeping. We need the government to build on the success of ‘everyone in’ and use the Spending Review to invest in services that help prevent further homelessness. 

We’re responding to the proposed planning reforms – and we need your help. We’re pulling together sector-wide responses to the two consultations, and the consultation on changes to the current system, which closes on 1 October, is our most urgent priority. We have strong arguments to make against some of the more difficult proposals – but we need your help to illustrate them.

The real ‘social housing waiting list’ is 500,000 more than official figures. The findings are published in their annual People in Housing Need report, the most comprehensive report to date on the state of the nation’s housing crisis.

People in housing need 2020. A comprehensive analysis of the scale and shape of housing need in England today

Funding is biggest barrier to green retrofit for majority of housing associations. Housing associations say a lack of funding is the biggest barrier to rolling out an ambitious national retrofitting programme for social housing.

Understanding the draft Building Safety Bill (webinar). What are the implications of this legislation for housing associations and how can the sector continue to implement the new regulatory system for building safety?

New information on the government’s Kickstart Scheme. The government has published new details of the Kickstart Scheme, a £2bn fund to create hundreds of thousands of high-quality work placements for young people.  

The Social Housing White Paper and Together with Tenants. We update on the Social Housing White Paper, expected later this year, and explain how our Together with Tenants work is already taking forward some of the areas we expect it to cover.

New board member induction (webinar). If you’re new to the sector and you’d like a firmer grip on the housing world, join the National Housing Federation at this Board Member Induction webinar.

What will the long-term impacts of coronavirus be on housing supply? We’re now seeing the first in-depth reflections on the effect of the pandemic on housing. 

Launching an ambitious decarbonisation plan that meets the needs of our residents . If the UK’s carbon targets are to be met, existing homes will need to be retrofitted and new homes built to meet much tougher standards. But how social landlords will afford to do this work?

Details on the next Affordable Homes Programme announced. The government has announced the prospectus for the 2021-26 Affordable Homes Programme (AHP).

The influence of longer-term grant funding on affordable housing supply. New reserach shows doubling the duration of government funding programmes from five years to ten would facilitate a significant increase in the supply of affordable housing.

New NHF research highlights barriers to retrofitting homes. There are significant challenges to overcome if housing associations are to deliver an ambitious retrofit programme and become net zero in terms of carbon emissions by 2050. To understand these challenges better, we conducted a survey of housing associations over August 2020 to identify the major barriers and obstacles to retrofit.

Affordable Homes Programme 2021-26 announcement. Response to the government's announcement on the Affordable Homes Programme 2021-2026.

Valuing properties in high-rise buildings – an update. We update on issues relating to valuing properties in high-rise buildings due to fire safety concerns.

AceOn to play leading role in pioneering home energy scheme.

Easing lockdown in supported housing settings (webinar). This webinar will focus on balancing resident and staff safety with reopening schemes, including when to allow visitors, how to reopen communal facilities safely, and dealing with local lockdowns.

Eviction notice period. The six-month notice period came into force on 29 August and the government has issued guidance on these regulations.

How the Housing Ombudsman scheme is changing. We want to establish a positive complaint handling culture and capture learning to improve the experience of all residents.

Never has there been a time that more clearly shows us how our homes are at the heart of living well. We need to make sure both exisiting homes are future homes are suitable to living well and ageing better.

No Recourse to Public Funds. We've produced a briefing which provides examples of what housing associations can do to help people with No Recourse to Public Funds from returning to rough sleeping.

Report on developing new supported housing for people with long-term care and support needs. We have been working with the Housing Learning and Improvement Network to identify the key barriers to developing new supported housing for people with long-term care and support needs, and how these can be overcome.

Planning for the future webinar. In this webinar we provide an overview of the recently launched planning white paper, outline the key issues for our sector and answer your questions.

Data is valuable but knowing the people behind the data makes an outstanding service. The measures Johnnie Johnson Housing put in place to support residents during lockdown helped staff get to know them better.

Update on the Affordable Homes Programme. We’ve been talking to the government about the next Affordable Homes Programme and setting out the priorities for social housing – and the risks of focusing solely on home ownership in an uncertain market.

Local lockdowns. We've put together some top tips for housing associations operating during a local lockdown.

Why safe homes are at the heart of supporting people through a crisis. Throughout the coronavirus crisis, we’ve seen more clearly than ever how a safe home is imperative to recovery.

Tenancy support. How housing associations are supporting tenancy sustainment and income collection through the coronavirus crisis.

Briefing on the financial impact of the coronavirus crisis on supported housing providers. This briefing summarises the key findings from our survey about the potential implications for the supported housing sector from coronavirus.

Fire safety consultation. This briefing summarises proposals set out in the government’s fire safety consultation, published on 20 July 2020.

Impact. The latest political engagement, media coverage, blogs, resources and updates from Homes at the Heart supporters.

BIM for housing associations. Joint project to help housing associations implement digital asset management for building information modelling (BIM).

The mental health challenges of coming out of lockdown - blog by Ian Gilders (23 August 2020). Service users and service providers were all worried about coronavirus and going into lockdown, but from a mental health perspective it seems to be only now that the scale of the real issue is emerging.

Evictions. No one should be evicted because of coronavirus and housing associations will continue to act compassionately in the face of the impact of the crisis.

Housing associations are embracing modern methods of construction – but what are the main considerations for housing associations? The government is keen to promote modern methods of construction as the answer to the housing crisis, and Homes England is encouraging housing associations to get involved – and they are. 

Two months in and momentum is building with the Homes at the Heart campaign – so what happens now? Whether you’re a big or small housing association, in a city or in the country, and no matter what kind of services you provide, we need you to keep shouting about what you do.

AceOn: helping housing associations to meet Net Zero Carbon ambitions. AceOn are an energy storage and battery company helping housing associations to meet Net Zero Carbon ambitions and targets.

Operating during local lockdowns (webinar). Best practice for members on managing local lockdowns in areas where they operate. 

Join the new Kickstart Housing Network. Find out how you can join a new Kickstart Housing Network.

Homeless hostels. Updated coronavirus guidance now available for hostel services.

Housing First. The Centre for Social Justice are seeking views on what it will take to roll out Housing First for those who need it.

Planning for the Future member briefing. We’re seeking member views on the planning reforms proposed in the government’s new white paper and accompanying short-term consultation.

Building Safety Bill briefings. We’re seeking member feedback on the proposed changes in the Bill. 

Housing Ombudsman update: lessons learned during Coronavirus and beyond. In this webinar, the Housing Ombudsman provides an overview of their approach during the coronavirus pandemic and outlines the new complaints handling code and what it means for housing associations.

Providing Housing First as a social landlord. This webinar brings together social landlords in conversation around what has worked to make their Housing First service successful.

The case for rural social housing. The need for more social housing in the countryside is all the more pressing as we begin to feel the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

Green Homes Grant. Social landlords are eligible for the new Green Homes Grant scheme.

HCLG Select Committee report supports NHF calls for more social homes. The Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee recently published a report on building more social housing, which backs our calls for 90,000 new social homes a year.

Environmental, Social and Governance reporting White Paper – consultation responseto Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting - consultation response. We have responded to the white paper on creating a sector-standard approach to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting.

Rural life monitor 2017. Our report illustrates how building affordable homes in rural areas can help to maintain vital services for local communities.

Support through the toughest of times. At SHAL, we build relationships with our residents to provide essential support to help them stay in their homes.

Mobysoft: providing time and cost saving solutions to the sector. Mobysoft provides time-and-cost saving solutions with RentSense.

Why are shared ownership customers responsible for paying for major structural works within their home?

How, if you are paying both a mortgage for a part of the property and rent for the rest, could anyone ever get themselves into the position to eventually buy the place outright? .

Why do customers sometimes lose money when they decide to sell their share, having done lots of improvement and maintenance work to the property?

Why are we promoting shared ownership and not social rent and other affordable products?

Planning white paper. How the government's proposed planning changes will affect housing associations.

Board Member Pay.

Planning white paper. NHF response to government planning proposals.

Social homes are good for business. More social homes would create jobs and help communities, and local businesses, to thrive.

Code of Governance. See our final consultation on a new code of governance for housing associations.

Our response to the planning announcements. Please see the National Housing Federation's response to the government's planning announcements.

Building Safety Fund – update on applications. The government has published new guidance on applying for funding for the removal and replacement of unsafe non-ACM cladding. 

Homes at the Heart of a Stronger Economy. Now more than ever housing associations continue to demonstrate our societal, economic and environmental value.

The role of housing providers in stimulating the economy, creating new jobs and improving wellbeing. Not only does construction of new homes create employment opportunities, but it has a wider economic impact across the supply chain that in turn stimulates growth.

Why modern methods of construction are essential for recovery post-COVID (webinar). Join Rt Hon Chris Pincher MP who discussed ‘why MMC are an essential part of recovery post-COVID'.

We are joining calls for a suspension of No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) conditions. The government has committed to making sure there is no return to rough sleeping, and this is a key priority in our coronavirus recovery plan. Find out more.

Join us in highlighting the benefits social housing brings to our country - blog by Lucy Grove (30 July 2020). Your social housing successes, and the joy and hope your social homes bring to your residents, needs to be at the centre of the next stage in our campaign.

Homes at the Heart weeks of action.

Housing Governance Conference: a virtual view. I recently attended the virtual Housing Governance Conference and was impressed with the immersive and engaging experience I had.

How tenants and residents can back the Homes at the Heart campaign. Everyone deserves a safe, secure, comfortable place to call home. Not just now, in the middle of this crisis, but always. Investing in social housing – in all its forms – makes this possible.

How politicians can back the Homes at the Heart campaign. We want to build cross-party support for our campaign in Parliament. You can show support by taking a number of actions.

How supporters can call for homes to be at the heart of the recovery.

How housing associations can call for homes to be at the heart of the recovery.

Guide to organising an MP visit to your housing association. Guidance on socially distanced visits, virtual visits and virtual meetings

Use our data tools to find out more about your area. When speaking to MPs, it's useful to know what the housing sector looks like in their constituency. 

Constituency data tool. See how much an average home costs in your area and compare this with how much people earn and other useful data.

Home Truths. Get the latest data on affordability, unemployment and shortfall in housing supply where you are.

Briefing on new £266m fund for housing rough sleepers. See more on the government's Next Steps Accommodation Programme.

Support for shared owners during the coronavirus crisis. This update by the NHF and the Building Societies Association (BSA) sets out the support shared owners can expect from their housing association and their mortgage lender during the coronavirus crisis.

The ‘new normal’ - board excellence in recovery from the crisis (webinar). Following on from May’s webinar on board excellence in a crisis, this webinar shifts focus to the ‘new normal’ and what boards should be discussing in recovery from the crisis.

Retrofitting to net zero (webinar). We know that the housing sector faces real challenges in cutting carbon emissions, and there are significant obstacles to overcome. But now is the time for us to build back better.

Draft Building Safety Bill published. This sets out how the government will bring forward its proposals to reform the building safety regulatory system.

Fire safety consultation announced. We will use the feedback gathered from members, and seek further input, to develop a sector response to the fire safety consultation, which closes on 12 October 2020.

External Wall System Reviews – valuation of high-rise properties . We are continuing to engage with the government and stakeholders on the External Wall System Review process.

Building Safety Fund – important updates for housing associations. Following the publication of the Building Safety Fund prospectus in May, we’ve been seeking further clarity from the government about what this looks like for members.

New guidance for consulting with fire and rescue services on building projects . The government has announced new building regulations and fire safety procedural guidance.

Community safety in a pandemic: building partnerships and keeping neighbourhoods safe (webinar). This pandemic has driven people indoors and transformed the way that social landlords work with communities, as well as increasing pressures in those communities.

Economic Impact. Our updated Local Economic Impact Calculator shows housing associations’ contribution to the productivity of local areas. 

Homes at the Heart campaign update (webinar, 15 July 2020). During this webinar you will hear from the partner organisations about how the campaign is going so far, where it is going next and how you can help to amplify this crucial message.

Universal Credit survey: how is the coronavirus crisis affecting rent arrears? To understand this further, we are running a short monthly survey to monitor the impact of coronavirus on rent arrears and any relationship this may have with Universal Credit.

Night shelters instructed to remain closed. Night shelters currently closed due to the coronavirus outbreak should remain closed, despite the government’s lifting of other lockdown restrictions.

We are asking the government to fund Housing First as part of plans to end homelessness. We have signed a joint statement with Housing First England, the National Federation of ALMOs, Crisis and others, to call for investment in Housing First to be included in the government’s plans for national recovery.

Universal Credit Claimant Commitment to be reinstated. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has shared details of how the Claimant Commitment will be reintroduced for people claiming Universal Credit. 

Progress in remediating dangerous cladding. Our submission to the Public Accounts Committee inquiry sets out our views on issues raised by the National Audit Office report into the remediation of dangerous cladding on high-rise buildings and how the government could provide further support.

Staff and tenant care during coronavirus (webinar). Coronavirus has changed the way we all work and the way housing associations engage with their tenants. What action can Members take to support the wellbeing of tenants and staff throughout this uncertain period?

Modern methods of construction (MMC) can help housing associations build more and better homes – but collaboration is key. MMC can help housing associations build a significant proportion of the 300,000 new homes we need every year – cheaper, quicker and to a higher standard. But if it was easy we would have done it already. To get there we need to collaborate.

The view from our regional forums.

Accounting for coronavirus.

Valuation concerns.

Supporting our communities.

Managing an in-house repair team.

To issue or not to issue.

Raising funds during lockdown.

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting for social housing.

Universal Credit. DWP to roll out new system to pay social landlords' direct payments.

Updates on the Chancellor's financial statement and the Affordable Homes Programme. Today’s financial statement was not designed to be as comprehensive as previous spring or autumn budgets. Its aim was to introduce an emergency package of measures in response to the coronavirus crisis. However, there were some important announcements relevant to housing associations.

Rural housing and the pandemic. More homes for social renting in small developments that target local people, and a few purpose-built bungalows for older people to free up family homes, can make a huge difference for the village. This certainly deserves fuller recognition from MHCLG and Homes England.

Responding to coronavirus – views from the Finance Policy Advisory Group. In a collection of short articles, members of the Finance Policy Advisory Group (FPAG) have commented on the impact of coronavirus on the sector, in their own organisations, and across all regions of England. Nathan Mallows, Director of Finance & IT at Coastline Housing Group and Chair of FPAG, reflects on the past few months and outlines the content provided by the group.

Local Government Pension Scheme – current considerations. Our pensions advisers Isio update on the latest on the Local Government Pension Scheme, including the position on funding and end of year reporting, and outline some recommended next steps.

Social Housing Pension Scheme – current considerations. Recent movements in markets and upcoming changes in Defined Benefit funding regulations are putting pressure on Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS) funding levels. Our pensions advisers Isio discuss recent and upcoming developments and outline the current considerations to take on board.

Material operational effects of coronavirus and the impact on housing associations. The coronavirus outbreak is likely to have material operational effects on housing associations in the UK. Financial experts Moody's outline the impacts they expect to see in the sector.

Safe, secure and energy-efficient homes are the key to building sustainable communities. As a rural housing association based in the largest county in the country, supporting communities is a major part of our corporate strategy. We believe strong communities are mixed communities.

VAT efficiency opportunities for housing associations. There are many ways for housing associations to drive VAT efficiencies by making use of existing VAT legislation and HMRC accepted arrangements. Our tax advisers RSM explain how this works.

Preparing annual accounts – corporation tax considerations. With most housing associations in the midst of annual statutory audits, it’s a good time to have a corporation tax ‘spring clean’. Our tax advisers RSM outline some useful considerations.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – important changes from July 2020. Important monthly changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme have been announced by HM Revenue & Customs. Our tax advisors RSM explain these in detail.

Coronavirus impact – an update from the Regulator of Social Housing. The coronavirus crisis has seen many housing associations apply effective risk management and stress testing to their work, but there will be more challenges ahead. Will Perry of the Regulator of Social Housing provides an update on regulation and outlines plans for ensuring effective governance as we start the process of recovery.

LIBOR-SONIA transition – compounded index to be published. As a result of the consultation on the transition from LIBOR to SONIA, the Bank of England has confirmed that it will publish a compounded SONIA index from August. Adrian Joliffe of 2TIX LTD consultancy explains how this will work in practice.

Investing in homes as part of the coronavirus recovery. The coronavirus crisis has had a signficant effect on housing associations' business plans for this year, particularly in terms of investing in new and existing homes. Through our coronavirus recovery planning work, we've been calling on the government to take action to provide confidence for business planning.

An update on valuations and the housing market. The impact of the coronavirus crisis is having a significant effect on the housing market, particularly on valuations and the construction industry. Richard Petty of JLL assesses the current situation and the outlook over the coming months.

NHF response to the Chancellor's green investment package. Residential housing is responsible for around a fifth of all UK carbon emissions, so making homes energy efficient is key to meeting the UK’s legally binding target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The benefits of retrofitting and decarbonisation – a rural housing association resident’s perspective. "25 years after living in a cold and expensive-to-heat home I have nothing but praise for a home that is now kinder to me, my wallet and the planet."

Reducing ‘hidden’ homelessness. Coastline Housing has partnered with Cornwall Council and other organisations to help homeless people in the county through an innovative outreach project.

Local lockdowns: information and next steps. The government has announced the UK’s first local coronavirus measures in Leicestershire this week. We’ve summarised the information and guidance available to date and are urgently seeking further clarity for housing associations operating in local lockdown areas.

New guidance on social housing for veterans. The Housing Minister has announced new measures to improve access to social housing for members of the armed forces, veterans and their families.

Working in partnership to rehouse rough sleepers. Our work in helping to find accommodation for homeless people during the coronavirus crisis has underlined how effective partnership work can be, and we’ve seen this effectiveness hit new heights over the past few months.

Rural housing associations are the glue connecting local communities – and can play a key role the country’s recovery. The work that housing associations do in rural areas every day shows us that we have so much to be proud of as a sector. We have the potential to make an enormous contribution to the future of rural lives, if the government can put Homes at the Heart of the national recovery programme.

Housing announcements in Prime Minister’s recovery speech. Boris Johnson launched his ‘build, build, build’ approach to social and economic recovery in a speech on 30 June, and included a significant focus on housing.

Why homes must be at the heart of recovery - factsheet. This factsheet contains data on life in lockdown (the effects of coronavirus), improving the quality of homes for the future, and how investment in social housing can make the difference

Housing issues during lockdown: health, space and overcrowding. A briefing on research supporting the Homes at the Heart campaign.

Poor housing causing health problems for nearly a third of brits during lockdown. Nearly a third of adults in Britain have had mental or physical health problems because of the condition of, or lack of space in, their home during lockdown.

Economic recovery. Our response to the Prime Minister's speech today on the national recovery.

NHF submissions to Labour's National Policy Forum Consultation 2020.

The future of building safety with Dame Judith Hackitt (webinar). We are delighted that Dame Judith was able to join us for this webinar to share her vision for a housing association sector with a culture of safety and discuss her role in leading the transition to a new Building Safety Regulator.

Take part in our new Sector Scorecard for supported housing. MHCLG and DWP Ministers set out a commitment to work with the sector on the design of the new system.

Top tips for virtual political engagement. It's important that our sector keeps engaging with politicians on the difference housing associations make in their constituencies.

Coronavirus and the end of LIBOR.

Show your support on social media. Show your support for #HomesAtTheHeart on social media using our campaign graphics and suggested posts.

Tweet your local councillors, mayors and MPs about the campaign. Here's how you can ask your elected representatives to support the Homes at the Heart campaign.

Homes at the Heart. Everyone deserves a safe, secure, comfortable place to call home. Not just now, in the middle of this crisis, but always. 

We must put homes at the heart of recovery. #HomesAtTheHeart is a national campaign and coalition calling for a once-in-a-generation investment in social housing and the people who live in it.

Homes at the Heart campaign supporters. We’re delighted that over 60 supporters have already come on board, from Carers UK to NatWest. 

Supported housing funding during coronavirus. We have put together a list of current funding streams available, while we continue to push for long-term support funding.

The government has committed an extra £105m for rough sleepers. The government has announced £105m of funding for those currently accommodated in hotels as part of the effort to take rough sleepers off the streets during the coronavirus outbreak

Investment in housing to support recovery – an update on our work. We’ve been speaking to the government about how Affordable Homes Programme funding can be used for the housing investment we need to support recovery from the coronavirus crisis.

Easing lockdown for supported housing. Supported housing providers should continue to ensure their operating procedures protect vulnerable residents and staff by minimising the risk of coronavirus transmission.

Our submission to the Energy Efficiency of Existing Homes Inquiry. Housing associations are fully committed to making sure that quality, sustainability and long-term value are at the heart of constructing new homes, and that existing homes are made cleaner and greener.

Pride in the City. Whilst we can’t take to the streets and come together in celebration we can, and we should, still celebrate Pride.

Why certainty in housing investment is vital. As we emerge from the coronavirus crisis, investing in building new homes has a positive impact at a local, regional and national level, driving economic growth and supporting jobs.

Towns Fund – details and guidance. The government announced the Towns Fund in September 2019, with a view to supporting places that have not always benefitted from economic growth in the same ways as more prosperous areas.

Putting residents’ voices at the centre of changes to Universal Credit. The coronavirus crisis has placed an array of unique demands on society and one thing is clear – our response must be bold and decisive.

Universal Credit. This research report features one of the largest surveys of Universal Credit claimants ever conducted.

How housing associations and local authorities can work together to rehouse rough sleepers (webinar). This webinar brings together speakers from the housing association and local authority sectors to discuss how this can be achieved through partnership working

HCLG Select Committee report on cladding remediation. The Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) select committee published a report on 12 June looking into the progress of cladding remediation. The report states that there are still 2,000 high-risk residential buildings with dangerous cladding in England.

Report on long-term funding and the construction sector. We've published a report that shows how long-term funding for affordable housing could unlock investment in skills and technology to increase productivity.

This is our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at the NHF. I’m proud to share with you our equality, diversity and inclusion strategy: Who We Are.

As board members, your leadership will help our sector – and our country – thrive. We can’t claim to hold all the answers, but we do have an important role to play in building a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable economy and society.

What we learnt from our coronavirus befriending service. This year it's even more important to highlight loneliness as people in our communities continue to be isolated from friends and family.

When will we make housing more race and gender inclusive? For change to happen, the housing sector needs to ask itself: what is diversity?

Building a Safer Future - member briefing on the government's response. Briefing for NHF members on the government's response to the Building a Safer Future consultation. 

Learning about leadership during an unprecedented crisis. As we start to slowly move out of lockdown, at VIVID we’ve been reflecting on what we’ve learned about leadership

Easing lockdown case study: Sovereign's approach to lettings. In this video, Kelly McArthur shares Sovereign’s approach to managing voids and lettings in a socially distanced way as Coronavirus lockdown eases.

Easing lockdown case study: Radian repairs. In this video, Peter Hall, Interim Director of Commercial Services at Radian, shares Radian's approach to repairs and maintenance as lockdown eases.

Board members tell us how they’ve responded to the coronavirus crisis . We asked members of our Board Member National Group about how they and their organisations have been responding to the coronavirus crisis.

The impact of coronavirus on Universal Credit (webinar). Coronavirus has already had a dramatic impact on jobs and incomes and we will be living with the economic impact of the crisis for years to come. Government response has been to support people’s incomes and millions have made a claim for Universal Credit.

NHF statement on equality, diversity and inclusion. We stand in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and we commit to take action ourselves to bring about change.

New safety requirements for residential blocks. The government has announced three key changes to building safety requirements that will affect new residential buildings.

Contract Management.

Collaboration works – never more so than in the hardest of times. The relationships built, and the trust and spirit of togetherness that has been harnessed over years of joint initiatives, has given Greater Manchester Housing Providers the opportunity to share and collaborate right from the start of this crisis.

New PPE portal. A new portal is available to help smaller registered care providers access PPE.

No return to rough sleeping – latest government developments. Given the growing need to move rough sleepers into permanent accommodation, we need clear guidance and funding to make sure there is no return to rough sleeping.

Easing lockdown case study: Prima Group’s Coronavirus Recovery Plan. John Ghader, chief executive of Prima Group, shares an overview of how Prima Group is approaching the easing of lockdown restrictions.

NHF Chair makes case in House of Lords for investment in social housing as part of coronavirus recovery. "If the government had the vision to commit to a 10-year affordable housing fund, it could secure a long term and sustainable economic recovery."

Is going virtual the answer to holding AGMs during the coronavirus outbreak? Virtual AGMs are now being cautiously encouraged in the corporate sector, and the new Bill should provide some clarity and reassurance for those who are considering them in all sectors.

Our new drive to decarbonise homes. On World Environment Day, I want to set out the case for a renewed focus on retrofitting and add the NHF’s voice to the calls from many quarters to build back better.

The UNIFY (BAME) Network is growing. Equality and diversity is a sector wide issue and more broadly a societal issue where collaborative work needs to be done. 

Coronavirus: our plan for housing's role in social and economic recovery. Housing associations have played a central part in the country’s coronavirus response and now social housing must be at the heart of the national recovery.

Making a connection at virtual events. As the NHF rolls out virutal events this summer, find out what you can expect from one.

Coronavirus and recovery (webinar). We're working with you to understand the role our sector can play in supporting communities and the economy emerge from the coronavirus crisis. Here, we share the themes we have identified to meet this ambition and outline our emerging proposals, discuss our national influencing agenda and our work with the government and stakeholders.

Our ministerial meeting on housing and employment. The Covid-19 Housing and Employment Taskforce, including the NHF, met the Minister for Employment, Mims Davies, and Will Quince, the Minister for Welfare Delivery, on 18 May.

No Pride in homelessness – the struggle for housing justice for LGBT+ people. This June, while Prides will always be a fabulous and colourful celebration of how far we’ve come, they remain a defiant cry for justice – and that must include housing justice. “The first Pride” – as the tee-shirt says – “was a riot!”

Our response to the HCLG Select Committee report on protecting renters and rough sleepers. On 22 May, the Homes, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Select Committee published its interim report on protecting renters and rough sleepers during the coronavirus crisis.

Building Safety Fund. New details of government fund published in prospectus for £1bn Building Safety Fund.

How we’re responding to increased demand for domestic abuse support and safe accommodation. How national housing associations delivering specialist supported housing services can help offer safe accommodation. 

Easing lockdown - an update for housing associations update (webinar). The government published its coronavirus recovery strategy on 11 May, setting out an indicative roadmap for the easing of lockdown restrictions. Hear the latest updates on guidance and what it means for housing associations.

Housing people in urgent need. Download resources on providing housing for domestic abuse survivors and rough sleepers.

The impact of coronavirus on sheltered and extra care housing (webinar). In this webinar, members will highlight the key challenges facing providers of long-term supported housing services during the coronavirus outbreak and how they have dealt with them.

NHF response to the building safety prospectus. Kate Henderson responds to the government's £1bn Building Safety Fund prospectus

Modern methods of construction webinar. Join Building Better and the Housing Minister, Rt Hon Chris Pincher MP, for a webinar on why Modern Methods of Construction are essential for recovery post-COVID.

Overcoming challenges of managing specialist substance misuse in housing during lockdown. As a specialist housing and treatment provider, we have unique insight into the challenges faced by individuals with a history of substance misuse and how the current crisis might affect them.

Social care workers can now access the Home Office bereavement scheme. The Home Office has extended its bereavement scheme to cover all NHS and social care workers.

New funding to tackle the spread of coronavirus in care homes. A new £600m Infection Control Fund has been introduced to tackle the spread of coronavirus in care homes.

Coronavirus - an update on tax issues. The government has introduced a range of tax-related measures to assist businesses during the coronavirus crisis. Our tax advisers RSM have summarised those likely to be of most interest to housing associations, as well outlining other related issues worth considering.

How we’re protecting residents during lockdown. Responding to coronavirus isn't easy, but we're focused on ensuring our residents and colleagues are supported.

Review of the ban on the use of combustible materials in and on the external walls of buildings, including attachments. We have submitted a response to the government's consultation on reviewing the ban on the use of combustible materials in and on new buildings.

Fire Safety Bill and Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry recommendations – member briefing. We're seeking feedback from our members on implementing the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry phase one recommendations.

Update for London housing associations (webinar). Hear from Tom Copley, the Deputy Mayor for Housing at Greater London Authority and NHF CEO Kate Henderson about the sector's response to coronavirus.

Domestic abuse - economic abuse and how we can identify and support victims (webinar). In this webinar we hear from experts about economic abuse and how we can identify and support victims in housing association homes.

MHCLG consultation on banning the use of combustible materials in the external walls of high-rise residential buildings. We  support the overall proposal to ban the use of combustible materials in cladding systems on high-rise buildings. But we recognise that such a ban will not be simple to implement and careful consideration of unintended consequences is required.

NHF Chair asks minister to prioritise building social housing in the economic recovery. NHF Chair Baroness Warwick asks ministers to make specific provision for more social homes in the next review of public spending to end rough sleeping for good.

We’ve teamed up with a local social enterprise to deliver food to our most vulnerable residents. The Larder promotes healthy, nutritious food that is local, seasonal and waste-free, with all its profits going to communities in need.

Our recent work on domestic abuse. As part of our work on the National Housing and Domestic Abuse Policy and Practice Group, we’ve signed Safer London’s Call to Action for housing providers.

Emergency funding for homelessness providers. See all the latest information on funding for homelessness providers on this page. Please check back for updates.

Our engagement with the new rough sleeping taskforce. We’ve written to Dame Louise Casey to outline how we can end homelessness for all.

Finding homes for rough sleepers. Housing associations are partnering with local authorities and other organisations to help to house rough sleepers as part of the sector’s response to the coronavirus crisis.

Supporting vulnerable residents. Across the country, housing associations are working hard to ensure that their most vulnerable and isolated residents feel reassured, safe and well looked after during the coronavirus crisis.

Helping with financial worries. Housing associations are responding to the coronavirus outbreak by helping residents with financial concerns, including working with foodbanks and local social enterprises.

Working with the NHS. Housing associations are working with the NHS and other health organisations on the frontline of the country's response to the coronavirus crisis.

How the housing and employment sectors can stand as one. Newcross-sector taskforce to find employment-led solutions for social housing residents.

Anti-money laundering guidance. This guide aims to ensure that members are compliant with the legislation and to protect them from the effects of money laundering.

Housing associations’ role in helping the economy to recover. We held a roundtable last week with housing associations, the Housing Minister, and MHCLG, as part of our work to shape how we emerge from the coronavirus crisis in the coming months and years.

Building safety for board members: latest updates and coronavirus response (webinar). Crucial insight on current building safety issues, how housing associations are demonstrating compliance during the coronavirus outbreak, and updates from the government and the HSE.

Easing restrictions: supporting programmes. The government’s coronavirus recovery strategy contains details of a number of supporting programmes. We’ve summarised those relevant to housing associations.

Easing lockdown from 1 June. We've summarised what the government's coronavirus recovery strategy and plans to ease restrictions from 1 June means for housing associations. 

Ongoing coronavirus restrictions. We’ve summarised the key measures introduced as part of lockdown which will remain as restrictions are eased, along with how they may affect housing associations and their residents.

How we’re working with DWP to manage the increased demands on Universal Credit. Residents need financial security in the longer term to manage ongoing rent payments. Alongside housing association federations across the UK, we’re working with DWP to help.

Coronavirus – advice on pensions. Our pensions advisers Isio have outlined some considerations for housing associations to take on board during the coronavirus crisis.

New taskforce to advise government on support for rough sleepers. A new specialist taskforce has been created to lead the next phase of the government’s support for rough sleepers during the coronavirus outbreak.

NHF Chair talks in House of Lords about the impact of high housing costs on individuals. Yesterday in a debate in the House of Lords, NHF Chair, Diana Warwick spoke about the impact of high housing costs on individuals and families and steps government can take to further support the people most affected by the coronavirus.

Why there's never been a more important time for HR. Now more than ever is the time for HR and people professionals to come together, share our experiences, grow our knowledge and prepare for what is to come.

Working with suppliers during the coronavirus crisis. This article summarises Procurement Policy Note 02/20, a resource for thinking through how to engage with suppliers during the lockdown.

Preventing homelessness together - the next steps (webinar). The coronavirus outbreak has helped highlight the need for care and homes for the country's homeless but we need to build momentum so the topic of homelessness remains front of mind after this time. See how our sector hopes to do this.

Board excellence during the coronavirus crisis (webinar). This webinar covers the role of the board during a crisis and how best to support staff and residents, making decisions at pace, monitoring what’s important and planning for the recovery period.

More than homes. Together, we can raise £1m for the Trussell Trust, writes Paul Dolan.

How we are supporting our most vulnerable residents during the coronavirus outbreak. Keeping residents safe while continuing to deliver much needed services has been our main aim since the beginning of this crisis.

How is the coronavirus crisis affecting Universal Credit and rent arrears? We are running a short monthly survey to monitor the impact of coronavirus on rent arrears and any relationship this may have with Universal Credit.

Update from the regulator for smaller housing associations. The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has written to smaller registered housing associations to update on changes to its regulatory approach during the coronavirus outbreak.

Homelessness. Read our submission to the HCLG Select Committee Inquiry on the impact of coronavirus on homelessness and rough sleeping.

Building new homes remains a priority – even in unprecedented times . For the second edition of Thinkhouse’s blog for the NHF, we look at recent research on housing supply.

The DWP is 'pausing' third party deductions from Universal Credit payments until 10 May 2020. Find out more about these changes.

First Homes – our consultation response. We have consulted with a wide range of our members and partners to form a sector-wide response to this consultation.

Vacant properties. New briefing shares examples of housing associations providing homes for those who need to move urgently.

Construction and remediation work during coronavirus. The Construction Leadership Council has issued updated guidance on construction site operating procedures during the coronavirus outbreak.

PPE availability. We know that PPE availability is still a major area of concern for some of our members. Find out how we are working to manage shortages in our sector.

Coronavirus: finance and regulation for smaller housing associations (webinar). This webinar will focus on the financial and regulatory implications of the coronavirus outbreak, including business planning and end of year accounts, with a particular emphasis on information for smaller housing associations.

Domestic abuse and coronavirus – guidelines for keeping residents safe. The government advice to stay at home presents a whole new set of challenges for residents experiencing domestic abuse.

Guidance on essential moves. New guidance from MHCLG and PHE clarifies that essential moves can continue.

Governance from a distance – bringing us closer. How can you take your online board meetings from passable to excellent?

Treasury consultants list. To help housing associations select the right treasury advisor we've compiled a list of the consultants used by the housing sector.

How we can help residents celebrate VE Day during lockdown. We've created activity packs for residents to help them to mark the occasion in their own way during lockdown

How can housing associations chart a course out of this crisis? At the NHF, we’re developing a project to understand and shape the next few months, and years, as the country emerges from the coronavirus crisis.

NHF joins a new coronavirus housing and employment taskforce. We’re joining leaders from across the housing and employment sector to support people impacted by coronavirus.

New coronavirus inquiry. Feed into our response to the HCLG Select Committee inquiry into the impact of coronavirus n homelessness and renting.

SONIA compounded index - consultation response. We've responded to the Bank of England consultation on its proposals to produce a daily index to support the use of SONIA by simplifying the calcuation of interest rates.

Building remediation. NHF joins pledge to ensure vital building safety improvements continue during the coronavirus outbreak.

Securing move-on accommodation for homeless people after coronavirus. Since the coronavirus outbreak we have seen an unprecedented effort to move rough sleepers into safe accommodation. Housing associations can be part of the resettlement effort too.

Update on funding and staffing costs for supported housing providers. After the charities rescue fund was announced by government, we have been working with MHCLG to clarify who is eligable.   

Accessing PPE. The government has released a Covid-19 PPE plan, setting out how PPE will reach those organisations who need it.

Lift checks. New guidance from the HSE released on carrying out lift examinations and tests during the coronavirus outbreak.

Latest updates on building safety: responding to coronavirus and recent government announcements. This webinar explores the latest developments on building safety, in light of coronavirus and recent government announcements. 

Coronavirus and Universal Credit. Key challenges for housing associations.

Sign up to the Department for Work and Pension’s newsletter. Get all the latest updates from the department in one place.

Frequently asked questions about shared ownership.

Coronavirus update for supported housing and homelessness members. This webinar looks at issues specific to supported housing and homelessness services arising due to the coronavirus pandemic.

New building safety announcements. See the latest government building safety announcements this April.

New cladding test results. The government has published the latest results of research and tests into a range of non-aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding materials.

Rural communities are vital – now more than ever. The response to coronavirus in rural communities has been exceptional, with residents coming together in unprecedented circumstances to help each other.

All member webinar. Update on the NHF's work to shape the political and policy developments on the key issues affecting housing associations during the coronavirus crisis.

Our meeting with the Housing Minister and other political engagement. An update on our recent influencing work, including our roundtable with the Housing Minister and our engagement with the new Labour Shadow Cabinet.

New survey from the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH). The regulator has published new information on their approach during the coronavirus crisis, including a new survey for registered providers.

Supported housing response to coronavirus: briefing and case studies. This briefing is to help supported housing providers who are on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis.

Accounting considerations for housing associations - discussion document. We’ve produced a document outlining accounting considerations for housing associations for 2019/20 year end, focusing on the impact of coronavirus on impairment reviews of social housing, and McCloud and GMP Equalisation pensions accounting.

Managing voids and meeting need during coronavirus outbreak. We have heard from members that managing voids that occur during the outbreak is particularly challenging.

Responding to the coronavirus outbreak for smaller housing associations (webinar). In this webinar, members of the National Housing Federation policy team shared the latest information for smaller associations followed by a Q&A with attendees.

New guidance on coronavirus and renting. This new government guidance contains important advice on several key areas for housing associations, residents and local authorities. 

Briefing: Our response to coronavirus and current priorities. Housing associations are working closely with residents, local government, the NHS and others to respond to the coronavirus crisis.

Coronavirus and supported housing providers. Updates for supported housing and sheltered housing providers, on some of the specific issues they face related to coronavirus.

Government furlough scheme. We've produced some brief guidance for housing associations confirming that they are eligible to use the government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. We have shared this with the government and are confident our interpretation is correct.

Accessing PPE. We have raised with Government the urgency of getting supplies of PPE out to homelessness services, supported housing and care providers. 

Webinar: Regulator of Social Housing. View our recent webinar with the Regulator of Social Housing about their response to the current crisis (member only).

Update from the Housing Ombudsman. In light of the coronavirus outbreak, the Housing Ombudsman has issued an update for landlords that are part of the scheme. 

Safety checks and coronavirus. The coronavirus outbreak is presenting a number of challenges for our members in terms of carrying out statutory safety checks. 

Remediation work. The government has published new guidance on carrying out remedial works during the coronavirus outbreak. 

Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus outbreak. The government has issued new guidance that applies to people buying or selling private residential homes which they intend to live in. We are seeking advice on whether similar guidance will be issued on void management for social housing providers.

Update from the Regulator on coronavirus. The Regulator of Social Housing has clarified its regulatory approach in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Gas safety check advice. Information from the Health and Safety Executive about issues with carrying out gas safety checks due to coronavirus.

Update on the First Homes consultation. We are continuing our work to build a response to the government’s consultation on First Homes.

Coronavirus – changes to the benefits system. The government has made a number of significant changes to the benefits system in order to support people’s incomes during the coronavirus crisis, and allow the DWP to focus resources on processing claims. 

Budget 2020. New briefing summarising the key housing announcements by the government.

These are extraordinary times for everyone – but, together, we will pull through. I know I’ll look back and see that housing associations played a vital part in helping us pull through this national crisis.

Homelessness services. We’ve been speaking with our members to establish the impact of coronavirus on homelessness services.

Fire and building safety regulation: legislation update. Find out more about the Fire Safety Act and the Building Safety Bill.

Pensions tax changes. The Spring Budget included some changes to pensions tax. Our pensions advisers Deloitte outline the detail behind this, the implications for pension scheme members, and what your housing association should consider.

Pensions update – Defined Benefit Funding Code Consultation. The Pensions Regulator issued its first consultation on the new Defined Benefit Funding Code on 3 March 2020. Our pensions advisers ISIO explain the detail behind it.

Coronavirus update – political engagement, regulation and compliance, key and essential workers and the benefit system. This update covers how we’re engaging with political stakeholders and the regulator, clarification we’re seeking on key and essential workers, and changes to the benefit system.

Budget 2020 – a new building safety fund. Find out about the new £1bn building safety fund announced in the Spring Budget.

Coronavirus update – key workers, our political engagement, and plans for member consultation. The government’s announcement on key workers, our political engagement, and how we’re consulting with members during the crisis.

Coronavirus update – supporting our members. This update outlines how we’ll support housing associations, their teams and residents during the coronavirus crisis.  

Internal and external auditor list. To help housing associations select the right internal and external auditors and ensure that the tender process is heathy and competitive, we've compiled a list of the auditors used in the sector.

How housing associations are helping stop loan sharks. Housing associations across the country are working in partnership to identify the signs of illegal money lending activity and help tenants in the grip of loan sharks.

Important changes to employee legislation. The government’s Good Work Plan takes effect from 6 April 2020, and requires organisations to provide extra information in the written statements of terms it sends to employees and workers.

Coronavirus – update on our events programme. Find out if any of our upcoming postponed events affect you.

Voluntary Right to Buy sales - accounting guidance. We've produced some guidance on accounting for Voluntary Right to Buy sales, in response to a number of queries we have received. 

Support for renters. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, said: "We welcome government's extra support for renters.

No one should lose their home because of coronavirus.

Responding to coronavirus (webinar). NHF members share best practice around preparing for and mitigating the impact of coronavirus on our residents and services.

Building a sector-standard approach to environmental, social, governance reporting. The social housing sector can establish a meaningful and consistent approach to reporting its environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.

An update on Making Tax Digital. Following the introduction of the government’s Making Tax Digital initiative last year, the final stage is for organisations to provide digital links and record a trail of all data changes.

Modern Methods of Construction lending issue. Many housing associations are now considering using modern methods of construction, but some lenders are unwilling to allow properties built this way to be secured against their loans.

Coronavirus. Responding to coronavirus remains the top priority for housing associations around the country as they work hard to provide services and support for their residents.

Response to Budget 2020. Today’s budget includes positive announcements for social housing.

Our principles of co-creation with residents. Find out how resident feedback could and should be helping you redesign your services and customer journeys from Sovereign.

Why we’re reviewing the Code of Governance. Paul Bayly explores why we have a Code of Governance, and why now is the right time to update it.

Code of Governance review. Find out why, and how, we're reviewing our Code of Governance.

Help shape homelessness policy. John Glenton outlines how the NHF Homelessness Steering Group increases our impact on preventing and tackling homelessness.

Briefing on the review of the ban on the use of combustible materials. The government is consulting on proposals to change the requirements of building regulations relating to the use of combustible materials.

Building safety for board members. This update for housing association board members gives an overview of the key building safety issues facing the sector.

Our submission to the call for evidence on risk prioritisation in existing buildings. In our sector submission, we set out why we support a risk-based approach to prioritising existing buildings for remediation. 

Housing Futures: the 'insight' phase (webinar). Led by innovation experts and open to all housing associations staff and residents, this webinar will give you a deeper understanding of the role of insight in innovation and will equip you with impactful tools to support you with this work.

National Housing Federation launches shared ownership campaign. The National Housing Federation has launched a new national campaign to boost the public’s understanding of shared ownership on a scale that has never been done before.

Are you ready for the Future Homes Standard? Some parts of the Future Homes Standard will come into effect as early as this year – we need to start preparing right now.

Designing homes for diginity. Invisible Creations is challenging stereotypes and negative stigmas around ageing and disability by producing attractive and inclusive home adaptations.

MMC are an innovation we need to embrace. John Newbury gives a boards' perspective on adopting modern methods of construction in development projects.

First Homes consultation briefing. This briefing summarises the government’s new First Homes policy, and outlines how you can share your views. 

Together with Tenants – getting ready for rollout. With the early adopter process drawing to a close this spring, we’re preparing to roll Together with Tenants out across the sector – and here’s how you can prepare.

Housing Futures is entering its ‘insight’ phase – what does this mean for you? We’re looking for five people from housing associations in each region of the country to become Insight Leaders.

A Home for Everyone – our submission for the Budget 2020. In this Budget, the government has an opportunity to commit to the investment needed to end the housing crisis for good.

The Future Homes Standard – our consultation response. The government has started consulting on a new Future Homes Standard. Read our response to the first of two consultations.

Flooding toolkit. Case studies, timelines, template packs and top tips to help manage in the event of a flood.

New First Homes policy. Read our initial response to this consultation, and our plans to coordinate a sector-wide response.

Credit adjustment spread methodologies - consultation response. This consultation from the Bank of England’s Risk-Free Rate Working Group focuses on credit adjustment spread methodologies for fallbacks in cash products referencing GBP LIBOR.

First Homes. These proposals could make it more difficult for housing associations and councils to provide homes for lower income families.

Risk prioritisation in existing buildings – a call for evidence. We want to hear your views on the government's call for evidence on risk-based prioritisation of existing buildings. 

Mergers, Group Structures and Partnerships voluntary code. This code gives housing associations a framework for mergers, group structures or other partnerships.

Our response to today’s announcements on building safety. Housing associations have already started removing combustible cladding from buildings under the 18-metre threshold, based on a broader assessment of risk. We therefore welcome the government’s proposals to apply a risk-based approach to evaluating building safety – something which we have been calling for.

Ten top tips for securing planning permission. The planning process can be difficult and uncertain, but there are things you can do to make the process smoother.

Housing associations and local authorities working together to build more homes. With vital support from Cornwall Council, housing associations built a quarter of all new homes in the county last year.

Why partnership working holds the key to tackling the housing crisis. Working closely with local authority partners can help housing associations overcome some of the biggest barriers to building the homes we need.

Board Bulletin. Sign up to our dedicated quarterly newsletter for housing association board members.

The Stronger Towns Fund – coming (very) soon to a place near you? The Government’s latest regeneration programme has ramped up – act soon if you want a piece of the funding action.

It's time to engage with the Government’s Industrial Strategy. Housing associations should be involved in shaping Local Industrial Strategies.

Green paper is an opportunity to improve the planning system. Next month’s Accelerated Planning Green Paper should bring more substance and an opportunity to pitch proposals for improvement

Document retention and disposal for housing associations. This document explains the requirements to retain and dispose of data for housing associations and provides guidance on appropriate data handling and disposal.

Board member in the spotlight: Danielle Oum. In our latest board member in the spotlight feature, Danielle Oum, Chair of whg, explains what makes a great housing association chair, and why we need to foster a stronger relationship between health and housing.

Putting residents at the heart of Housing Futures. While Housing Futures will engage with housing associations and residents alike, in the East of England, our steering group is determined to put residents at the heart of the programme.

The post-Brexit Budget and housing. The NHF will be making a submission on behalf of the sector, ahead of the Budget on 11 March.

Response to the Building Better, Building Beautiful Commission’s report. We welcome the publication of the Commission’s report today, which rightly highlights the need for good design and construction standards when building new homes. These are not just things that are nice to have, but essential parts of building cohesive, sustainable communities.

Procurement in Practice.

Housing SORP governance. Find out more about the SORP-making process.

Housing Futures: identifying a problem (webinar). This is the first in our Housing Futures webinar series, which focuses on the Identify phase of the innovation process. In this webinar you will learn about the importance of collaboration and discover the key behaviours, techniques and tools you need to successfully identify a problem.
 

Homelessness. Our sector has an ambition to help end homelessness. In this section, you can find out more about what we are doing to support this ambition.

Government publishes results from HPL cladding and fire door tests. On 18 July the Government announced some results of safety tests on high pressure laminate (HPL) cladding and timber fire doors.

An update from the West Midlands Regional Committee (July 2019). The West Midlands Regional Committee brings together leaders from housing associations across the region to help shape and deliver the Federation’s work both nationally and in the West Midlands region. Update from Boris Worrall, Group Chair.

Definition for specified accommodation. Briefing to explain the definition of specified accommodation and new regulations

Top tips to make modern methods of construction work. Modern methods of construction (MMC) are a hot topic in housing, and something for housing associations of all sizes to consider when undertaking development projects and looking to build more homes.

Universal Credit - updates from our work with the Government. This Universal Credit update provides the latest on rent changes, supported housing, the benefit cap and more.

Leasehold asset management – how avoiding delays can prevent problems later. David Cotterell FRICS, Director, Savills Housing & Healthcare Division, looks at how taking early and decisive action in managing leasehold assets can help housing associations steer clear of pitfalls.

The new Value for Money Standard – supporting transparency for housing associations. Robert Dryburgh, Assistant Director, Business Intelligence at the Regulator of Social Housing on how the Value for Money Standard could support transparency for housing associations after the CPI+1% rent increase is implemented next year.

Selecting the right auditor – the dos and don’ts. Guy Biggin, regional Non Profits lead at national audit, tax, advisory and risk firm, Crowe, outlines what a good procurement process looks like when it comes to the annual audit.

Local Government Pension Scheme consultation.

Helping tenants find alternatives to high-cost credit. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has published guidance for housing associations to provide greater clarity about which types of activities are likely to be credit broking when advising tenants.

Political engagement update for board members – April to June 2019. We update on our latest political engagement activities, including discussions on building safety and our shared ownership campaign.

Progress on Permitted Development. The Government has responded to feedback on its recent Planning reform: supporting the high street and increasing the delivery of new homes consultation.

Five updates on building and fire safety. This includes an update on the new government testing programme on other types of cladding.

Fire safety. Read our response to the government’s consultation on the clarification of Approved Document B (ADB) of the Building Regulations.

Approved Document B. Read the NHF submission to the Government’s consultation on fire safety guidance.

Building a safer future consultation response.

Brexit: an update for housing associations. A update on Brexit taking into account the changed political environment.

Supply. Survey results show the number of homes built by housing associations in quarter two 2019/20.

Disabled people are more likely to experience domestic abuse. We have a duty to all tenants and a responsibility to challenge situations where we believe someone with a disability may be at risk.

Are you making progress on leadership diversity? Two years on from the launch of Leadership 2025, Gina reflects on what’s changed in the housing sector – and what’s not.  

How housing associations can support Gypsy and Traveller communities. Social housing providers are incredibly well placed to deliver accommodation, support and a sense of pride to Gypsy and Traveller communities.

Tomorrow we wake up to a new government – what will this mean for housing? Election day has come. Many have called this the most important election in a generation, a Brexit election, an election to shape Britain’s future.

Taking stock: Understanding the quality and energy efficiency of housing association homes. This research set out to explore the condition of homes in the sector, both in terms of their physical quality and how energy efficient they are, and crucially how these physical features impact on people’s lives.

Mortgagee Protection Clause - GLA version. The Greater London Authority has issued a new version of the model mortgagee protection clause, which has been revised following discussions with housing associations and sector specialists.

Pensions guidance for housing associations. The NHF, in partnership with other sector leaders, have issued guidance to enable housing associations to defined benefit account the Social Housing Pension Scheme and the Scottish Housing Association Pension Scheme for the first time.

How many homes did housing associations build in 2018/19? This briefing details the number of homes housing associations developed in 2018/19.

Supply survey. We’re collecting information from housing associations on the number of homes they have started and completed. See our latest results on this page.

Planning. We’re working to ensure reforms to the planning system help to maximise the delivery of new affordable homes, and consulting our members on the key priority changes needed.

Housing associations are key to economic growth and building thriving communities. The National Housing Federation’s new publication, Homes for the Ox-Cam Arc, outlines the contribution housing associations are making to the local economy in the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, and the potential that they have to help the region grow.

Land. We’re working with Homes England on their land programme to help housing associations secure better access to more affordable land.

Funding and strategic partnerships. We’re working to secure the government support and funding we need to help our members build more new homes.

How we’re engaging our rural customers in Together with Tenants. Cottsway are using using a variety of methods to engage their rural customers.

Building Better. Building Better, supported by the National Housing Federation, is a strategic alliance of housing associations working together to realise the benefits of offsite manufacture.

Introducing Thinkhouse: more than just blue sky thinking? Thinkhouse highlights the best analysis and thinking about housing to help in your board member role
 

Speaking with one voice on shared ownership. At RHP we’ve started to use the shared ownership campaign’s eye-catching creative assets to build a powerful new brand and message.

Our shared ownership campaign is going public. A strong new message for shared ownership forms the basis of an ambitious nationwide advertising programme.

What does the new year bring for board members? NHF Chair Baroness Diana Warwick looks ahead to what 2020 might bring for housing association board members.

Case study: Hart Homes - Watford. Watford Community Housing and Watford Borough Council have formed a joint venture called Hart Homes and are aiming to deliver more than 500 homes over six years.

Case study: Greater Manchester Housing Providers. Greater Manchester Housing Providers has been working in a joint venture with Greater Manchester Combined Authority since 2010.

Case study: Gateshead Regeneration Partnership. Gateshead Council, HomeGroup and Galliford formed the Gateshead Regeneration Partnership in 2012 to build homes on the council’s brownfield sites.

Case study: Bridge Homes - Wakefield. Bridge Homes Yorkshire is a joint venture between Wakefield District Homes and Wakefield Council, formed in 2014.

Case study: Blaby District Council and emh group. emh group and Blaby District Council have been working together in Leicestershire since 2008 to deliver more homes to the county.

Case study: Aspect Building Communities - Eastleigh Council and VIVID. Eastleigh Borough Council and VIVID housing association are working together as Aspect, a development vehicle which plans to deliver almost 300 quality homes.

Working in partnership to build new homes. Across the country housing associations and local authorities are working together to deliver thousands of new homes and build strong communities.

Update on VAT exemption for service charges. Deloitte outlines how exemptions could apply under different provisions for those providers who are no longer VAT exempt.

Understanding and meeting regulatory requirements (webinar). This webinar will support boards in considering and planning how their organisations can stay ahead of changes to the regulatory agenda.
 

We’re supporting the No Homeless Veterans campaign. The No Homeless Veterans campaign calls on local authorities, homelessness charities and advice agencies such as Citizens Advice, to ‘Think Veteran’ and identify and signpost them to the enhanced support services available to them.

Example Standard Mortgagee Protection Clause. A Securitisation Working Group (SWG) made up of various sector stakeholders has formulated an example mortgagee protection clause.

Update on Right to Shared Ownership. The government has announced changes to the shared ownership model, and that it intends to take forward Right to Shared Ownership as an official government policy.

We’ve joined the Housing Made for Everyone (HoME) coalition. The Federation has signed up to a coalition of housing and voluntary sector organisations calling for more new accessible homes.

DWP confirm changes to Universal Credit. DWP has confirmed that they will be testing a new system to pay social landlords direct payments. The new system will see landlords receive the housing cost element directly from the DWP at the same time that tenants receive their Universal Credit payments.

Fire Kills campaign. The Home Office will launch its latest Fire Kills advertising campaign on 3 February.

Brexit: latest information (January 2020). An update on Brexit taking into account the changed political environment.

Consumer credit authorisation. The aim of this guidance is to assist housing associations both in applying legislation to their businesses and in understanding how and when to get authorised for consumer credit/FCA regulated activities, where appropriate.

Together with tenants. Meet the Tenant Advisory Panel.

Together with tenants early adopters. We have been working with residents, tenant representative groups, our members and others to understand what practical change is needed in the relationship between housing associations and tenants.

Model Rules. The Model Rules have been revised so they are compliant with recent legislation, good practice, and regulatory requirements.

Conservative Party manifesto. Briefing on the Conservative Party manifesto and what it means for housing associations.

Priorities for the new government. We've produced a briefing that sets out five housing priorities for the new government.

How can housing play a part in solving the climate crisis? It is only natural that as social housing providers we talk a lot about the housing crisis. We constantly ask how we can build more social homes, regenerate communities and help bring an end to the shocking situation of homelessness that is ruining lives. Recently more housing associations have also been talking about, and taking action on, the climate crisis.

Welfare Reform Group. This group advises on the Federation’s priorities, influencing work and support for members on welfare reform.

Public Affairs Network.

Homelessness National Group. The Homelessness National Group was formed in summer 2018 and shapes, informs and influences our work on homelessness.

Finance Policy Advisory Group.

Diversity member group. This national group has been set up to collaborate with the NHF on the key issue of diversity, equality and inclusion in the housing association sector.

Join our Delivering Great Homes national group.

Pennington Manches Cooper: providing legal advice to clients across the sector. Penningtons Manches Cooper is recognised as a top class provider of legal advice to the social housing sector.

Phoenix Software. Federation members receive up to 60% off selected products and services.

My Home Contents Insurance. Affordable and flexible scheme designed to protect your tenants.

Preparing for Brexit – member briefing. This briefing sets out the key challenges Brexit may bring for housing associations and how the sector can prepare.

How many homes did housing associations deliver in quarter one 2019/20. Briefing details the number of homes housing associations developed in the first quarter of 2019/20.

We want to fix flaws in Universal Credit. We’ve joined the other UK housing federations, Community Housing Cymru, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations and Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations to lobby the government for changes to the system. Read our six asks.

New shared ownership model consultation. We support proposals to improve the experience of shared ownership customers.

Affordability of private rental properties. Our research shows 9 out of 10 homes for rent are unaffordable for families on housing benefit.

Working together to end homelessness. How local authorities and housing associations can work together to end homelessness.

Homelessness Reduction Act call for evidence. Our response covers several key recommendations, including that the Government must tackle the root causes of homelessness – lack of supply, welfare, and support.

Homelessness. Guidance for housing associations to implement the Commitment to Refer and help end homelessness.

Why we signed up to the Commitment to Refer. Don’t underestimate the impact your organisation can have on ending homelessness.

Housing Futures is the biggest collaborative exercise ever undertaken by our sector. We need your help to identify the big challenges we should tackle through Housing Futures.

Building Better, Building Beautiful Commission.

Building Better, Building Beautiful interim report. We’ve responded to the Building Better, Building Beautiful Commission’s consultation after it sought feedback on its interim report.

Constituency data. Prepare to meet your local MP - see what the housing crisis looks like in your area

Housing Matters podcast: General Election 2019. National Housing Federation Chief Executive Kate Henderson talks about the result of the general election, what it means for the housing association sector.

NHS prevention Green Paper. Read our response to the Government’s proposed approach to putting prevention at the centre of healthcare.

The Lobbying Act. Our briefing provides advice on the restrictions on campaigning and lobbying in relation to national elections.

Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Our member briefing explains what the findings of the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry Phase 1 Report could mean for housing associations.

Reform of development corporations consultation response. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government recently consulted on reforms to development corporations.

Read our briefing on the new Rent Standard. Stay up to date with the changes to the Rent Standard, allowing for rent increases up to CPI+1% each year. 

Building a Safer Future – implications for development teams. Our briefing will help housing association development teams to understand the implications of the government’s proposed new building safety regime.

Fire safety measures in high-rise blocks. Read our response to the Government's proposals on sprinklers and other fire safety measures. 

Development guide. Specifically tailored for smaller housing associations, this guide to development describes each stage of the process and outlinea useful project management techniques.

Housing at the heart of Boris Johnson’s vision. We need to reach out to new MPs and make the case for housing.

Political engagement toolkit. Housing associations are ready to work with the new government to fix the housing crisis for good.

Homes for BME Communities. We've been working with BME National to highlight how the government can work with the housing sector to improve housing for BME communities in England.

Together with Tenants revised plan. View the Together with Tenants plan early adopter organisations are testing and evaluating. 

Together with Tenants. What are the key questions you should be asking within your organisation ahead of the 2020 rollout? 

Together with Tenants - updates and reflections.

Government ban on combustible materials. The Government has set out details of their ban on the use of combustible materials in buildings over 18m in height.

VAT update – service charge concession rule change. HMRC has recently issued a brief concerning VAT exemption for domestic service charges. Deloitte explains the detail.

Domestic reverse charge for fraud in the construction sector. HMRC has confirmed that the construction industry anti-VAT fraud provisions will only apply to positive VAT-rated services (i.e. 20% or 5%), where payments are required to be reported through the Construction Industry Scheme (“CIS”). This update from Deloitte summarises the detail.

53-week rent year – what this means for Universal Credit payments. Many housing associations have raised the problem with the Universal Credit calculation for people with weekly tenancies in years where there are 53 rent charges.

Supported housing - update on oversight. This article provides updates on the work the NHF continues to do, our work with the government on oversight, and how members can get involved in the near future.

Hackitt Review. The key findings of the review of building regulation and fire safety.

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – what to expect. This important act came into force on 20 March 2019, and gives renters the right to take action if their property is not fit for habitation.

Universal Credit update – 2019 rent changes process and update on the 53 week rent year. This Universal Credit update provides the latest on Landlord Portal, 53 week rent year, managed migration, pension age claimants and our work with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Select Committee.

We’re calling on the Government to fix flaws in the Universal Credit system. We want to see a benefits system that works for everyone, that gives people enough money to live on, that supports people into work and that ensures everyone has fair access to affordable housing.

Swing voters and housing policy. Survey shows housing is a top issue for swing voters, second only to health.

Homes for the Ox-Cam Arc. New report promotes the role of housing associations in the Oxford-Cambridge Arc in helping the region to develop and grow.

Let’s fix the housing crisis for good. Leading up to the general election, we need your help to ensure housing is a priority for the next government.

Code of Governance. Have your say as we work with members and stakeholders to revise our Code of Governance.

1 in 7 people in England directly hit by the housing crisis. More than 8m people in England are living in an unaffordable, insecure or unsuitable home, according to the first ever ‘state of the nation’ report on the housing crisis.

Right to Shared Ownership. Our response to the Government's proposal to introduce a Right to Shared Ownership.

Housing benefit freeze: 9 in 10 homes unaffordable for families. The benefit freeze is pushing low income families to the brink, with more than nine in ten homes for private rent too expensive for those on housing benefit. Two thirds of these families are in work.

National Housing Federation response to the Queen’s Speech. Responding to the Queen’s Speech, Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, said “Today’s building safety proposals from the Government are very welcome – fixing the broken regulatory system must be a top priority."

Response to the Grenfell Inquiry report. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation welcomes today’s report into the events on the night of the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower.

New building safety knowledge hub for social landlords. The Federation and the Local Government Association (LGA) have launched a new building safety knowledge hub for social landlords.

Building safety regulation. Specific points of regulation and legislation in the context of fire safety.

Stopping the rise in BME homelessness. Tackling homelessness in BME communities a key focus of the BME National mission statement.

Accounting and the Housing SORP. We’re working with housing associations and finance bodies on the International Financial Reporting Standard and the Housing SORP.

New government advice following the fire in Barking. The Government has issued an advice note to building owners on the risks arising from balconies on residential buildings.

Accountability. Accountability and transparency are critical to the reputation of an organisation, and the housing sector as a whole.

Board management. A good board needs to be well balanced and diverse, and to evolve to meet the challenges an organisation will face.

Group structures and joint ventures. The development of a variety of joint venture (JV) mechanisms continues to grow, with a variety of different forms of JV structures available.

Non-board governance. Good governance depends not only on the board – there are outside factors and players that are also crucial in an organisation’s governance framework.

What the board does. Housing association boards should give direction, provide a different perspective and constructive challenge to the executive, and hold the organisation to account.

Housing association governance. For any organisation, including housing associations, good governance is concerned with enhancing corporate performance and value to the organisation, its shareholders and stakeholders.

Our policy work. We’re working with the Government to help housing associations deliver more new homes. 

Affordable Homes Programme 2021-26. The government's Affordable Homes Programme plans to deliver up to 180,000 new homes.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry. The Grenfell Tower Inquiry published its Phase 1 report on 30 October 2019. Phase 2 of the inquiry, focusing on the cause of the fire and condition of the tower, in currently underway.

Safety tests and remedial work. The latest information on government investigations into building materials and practices – including cladding remedial work and fire doors.

Have you signed up to the Commitment to Refer? Sign up to show your organisation’s commitment to ending homelessness.

Over 200 housing associations pledge to tackle homelessness. 201 housing associations have pledged to tackle homelessness by signing the Commitment to Refer.

National Housing Federation sets out plan of action for stronger tenant-landlord relationships. The National Housing Federation is launching an ambitious new programme of work to build a stronger relationship between housing associations and their tenants.

National Housing Federation responds to the Government consultation on building safety. Today, Victoria Moffett, Grenfell Programme Lead at the National Housing Federation issued a response to the Government consultation on building safety published on behalf of the organisation.

New homeless families outnumber new social homes by 8 to 1. Our latest analysis shows that for every one new social home built in England, eight families are accepted as homeless by their local council.

Do you want to get #boardready? The programme for future housing leaders is helping to bring new talent with fresh ideas into the boardroom.

What could the climate crisis mean for housing associations boards? Following the recent NHF webinar on what the climate crisis could mean for housing associations and their boards I was inundated with questions about the topics discussed, so I decided to answer some of your biggest questions on climate change and the effects it might have in housing in a blog.

Landlord regulation. Housing associations are regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing, and the regulatory environment is changing rapidly. 

Governance. Helping housing associations to establish an effective governance framework.

Response to the findings of the Dame Hackitt's Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety. We welcome that the Hackitt Review has called for a root and branch reform of building safety regulations

National Housing Federation's response to Theresa May's announcement on social housing. "The additional £2bn will make a real difference to those let down by a broken housing market."

Brexit – issues for finance teams to consider. Key considerations for housing association finance teams that may arise from the UK leaving the EU.

Capital grant required to meet social housing need in England 2021-2031. This report estimates the subsidy required for housing associations and local authorities to build the social homes required to meet housing need over the decade from 2021. It does so by modelling the costs and funding for such a programme at local level across England.

Our Spending Review submission to end the housing crisis. The next Spending Review is our chance to make a transformational investment in people, in homes and in our communities to end the housing crisis.

So, what’s the big deal about BIM? Everyone seems to be talking about Building Information Modelling (BIM)… what is it? Do we need it in housing? Does it add benefit? Isn’t it just complex buildings that require 3D models?

Together with tenants - housing association involvement. We have been working with residents, tenant representative groups, our members and others to understand what practical change is needed in the relationship between housing associations and tenants.

Smaller housing associations. Our new offer to smaller housing associations sets out how the NHF will support smaller housing associations through more tailored resources, better networking opportunities, and a greater voice in our influencing work.

Rural Housing Alliance. The National Housing Federation Rural Housing Alliance supports our members that own and manage homes in rural areas.

Rural Housing 5-Star Plan. The Rural Housing 5-Star Plan was developed in 2017 through consultation with housing associations, and supports and challenges the sector to build more homes and support communities. 

Our rural offer . Our offer to our members with stock in rural areas is designed to help them deliver the best service possible for their customers. 

Why rural housing deserves the spotlight this week. Rural Housing Week 2019, which runs from 1-5 July, is our annual celebration of housing associations’ vital role in rural communities.

Quality of homes.

Treasury. Keep up to date with the latest on treasury issues.

Tax. We're working with our tax advisors RSM to keep housing associations informed on key tax issues impacting the sector.

Pensions. We’re working with our pensions advisers KPMG to keep the sector up to date on key areas affecting our members.

Assurance. We’ve produced a range of guidance providing advice and information on assurance and regulatory compliance.

Our new shared ownership campaign. We’re developing a new campaign on shared ownership, which will boost the profile of this great product across the country on a scale that’s never been done before.

Housing Inequalities. How housing inequalities impact on mental health and wellbeing

Changes to standards for new homes. The Prime Minister has announced important changes to requirements for new homes, covering space standards and accessibility. 

Great Places . Read the final report from the Great Places Commission, setting out 10 clear recommendations for housing associations, the Government and local partners.

Land.

Finance. Find the latest updates on social housing finance and key resources to help you manage your organisation.

Building safety. The latest on the work of housing associations to make buildings safe.

What does Brexit mean for housing? Decisions relating to Brexit have the potential to deliver significant change to the political and economic context we all operate in.