#HomesAtTheHeart

Audit and Risk Conference 2020 (Virtual). Online

Asset Management and Maintenance Conference and Exhibition 2020 (Virtual). Online

Affordable Home Ownership Conference 2020 (Virtual). Online

Add on Day: Fundamentals of Service Charges (Virtual). Online

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.

Social landlords are eligible for the new Green Homes Grant scheme. More detail on the £2bn Green Home Grants scheme has been published on the government’s website. This confirms that social landlords are eligible to bid for funding.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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

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. 

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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). 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.

Evictions ban. Update for members on the end of the evictions ban and potential prioritisation process. 

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?

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.

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.

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

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Regional Interest Groups – Health, Care and Supported Housing. We’re planning to reinstate these forums during July to coincide with the launch of our Homes at the Heart Campaign which includes care and supported housing as a central theme. 

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.

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. Homes at the Heart is a national campaign and coalition calling for a once-in-a-generation investment in social housing.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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: 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.

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.

Ban on evictions extended to August. The government has extended the ban on evictions from private and social rented homes by a further two months, until 23 August.

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.

Supported housing. Guidance on how to manage contact tracing and infection control in supported housing settings.

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

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."

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.

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 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!”

Initial results from our Universal Credit and rent arrears survey. Last month we issued a survey to our members, to help understand how the coronavirus outbreak is affecting residents who may be experiencing reduced or no income at the moment.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Gas safety check advice. Information from the Health and Safety Executive about issues with carrying out gas safety checks due to coronavirus.

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

Government lifts restrictions on house moves. The Government has announced that house moves, including social housing lettings, can restart, with appropriate safety measures in place.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 lockdown: guidance for housing associations. We’ve summarised the key measures in the government's coronavirus recovery strategy, along with how they may affect housing associations and their residents.

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.

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.

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.

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-side 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. To help housing associations select the right treasury advisor we've compiled a list of the consultants used by the housing sector.

LIBOR-SONIA transition.

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 Federation'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.

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. 

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.

Homelessness services. We’ve been speaking with our members to establish the impact of coronavirus on homelessness services.

New guidance on coronavirus and renting. This new government guidance contains important advice on several key areas for housing associations, residents and local authorities. 

Coronavirus and supported housing providers. Updates for supported housing and sheltered housing providers, on some of the specific issues they face related to coronavirus.

Housing associations’ response to the coronavirus crisis. In these challenging times, we stand united behind residents and communities. See how we plan to do this as a sector.

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.

Update on the First Homes consultation. We are continuing our work to build a response to the government’s consultation on First Homes.

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.

Budget 2020. New briefing summarising the key housing announcements by the government.

The Coronavirus Act – details on evictions . This article summarises the impact that the Coronavirus Act and the suspension of court hearings will have on evictions.

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.

Central 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.

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.

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.

Coronavirus update – key workers, our political engagement, and plans for member consultation. See our latest updates.

Coronavirus – guidance on key workers. Read our proposed guidance, outlining our interpretation of the key worker criteria. 

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). Our recent webinar talks through how housing associations can deal with coronavirus.

Coronavirus update – supporting our members. This update outlines how we’ll support housing associations, their teams and residents during the coronavirus crisis.  

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.

Events affected by coronavirus.

Responding to coronavirus.

Response to Budget 2020. Today’s budget includes positive announcements for social housing.

Influencing Academy.

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.

Together with Tenants: the role of boards in delivering a stronger relationship between housing associations and residents (webinar). This webinar will explore the role of boards in developing a more balanced relationship between housing association and their residents.

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

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.

Housing sector launches UK-wide innovation programme. Hundreds of housing associations from every part of the UK have come together to launch an ambitious innovation programme to tackle the biggest challenges in housing.

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 briefing. This briefing summarises the government’s new First Homes policy, and outlines how you can share your views. 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

Board Bulletin. Sign up to our dedicated quarterly newsletter for housing association board members.

Board member online forum. Network with board members from across the sector.

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.

Liability insurance. NHF members get Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance as part of their member benefits.

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.

Get involved.

The post-Brexit Budget and housing. The Federation will be making a submission on behalf of the sector, ahead of the Budget on 11 March.

Code of Governance review. We’re reviewing our Code of Governance. The first phase of the three-phase consultation process is now open.

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.

Housing Futures toolkit. A toolkit to help you engage staff at your organisation and gather ideas for what they see as being the big housing challenges the sector should focus on.

Who's signed up.

Social Housing Pension Scheme. The SHPS Pensions Committee has published the latest SHPS valuation results and information on proposed future service benefit changes.

Housing SORP governance. Find out more about the SORP-making process.

Shared ownership hub. Our campaign hub contains all of the assets you need to help build awareness and understanding of shared ownership. Here are some top tips to help you get the most out of it.

Definition for specified accommodation. Briefing to explain the definition of specified accommodation and new regulations

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.

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.

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.

Planning in practice. Find out more about how the planning process works in practice.

Planning reform consultation – NHF response. We’ve responded to questions on extending permitted development rights and amending provisions for the disposal of local authority land, raised in a government consultation on planning reforms.

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.

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.

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. Across the country housing associations and local authorities are working together to deliver thousands of new homes and build strong communities.

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.
 

Brexit: latest information. This article provides an update on Brexit taking into account the changed political environment. It covers: 1. Current situation and political context.
2. Key issues facing housing associations.
3. What housing associations can do during the transition period.
4. What the Federation will do.

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.

Shared ownership FAQs. Our shared ownership campaign is boosting the profile of this great product across the country on a scale that’s never been done before. Get your FAQs answered.

How to sign up to our shared ownership campaign. Our shared ownership campaign is boosting the profile of this great product across the country on a scale that’s never been done before. Find out how to sign up.

Our shared ownership campaign so far. Our shared ownership campaign is boosting the profile of this great product across the country on a scale that’s never been done before. Explore the campaign so far.

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.

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. Read about our members that help shape our work to end 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.

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.

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.

Homelessness. Guidance for housing associations to implement the Commitment to Refer and help end homelessness.

Our shared ownership campaign is going public. A strong new message for shared ownership forms the basis of an ambitious nationwide advertising programme.

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.

Introducing Thinkhouse: more than just blue sky thinking? Thinkhouse highlights the best analysis and thinking about housing to help in your board member role
 

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.

Brexit: an update for housing associations. Update for housing associations on preparing for Brexit.

Supply. Survey results show the number of homes built by housing associations in quarter two 2019/20.

Fire Kills campaign. The Home Office will launch its latest Fire Kills advertising campaign on 3 February.

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.

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.

Building a Safer Future – implications for development teams.

Political engagement toolkit. Housing associations are ready to work with the new government to fix the housing crisis for good.

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. 

Code of Governance. We’re reviewing our Code of Governance. The first phase of the three-phase consultation process is now open.

Reform of development corporations consultation response. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government recently consulted on reforms to development corporations.

How we’re engaging our rural customers in Together with Tenants. Cottsway are using using a variety of methods to engage their rural customers.

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.

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.
 

Housing at the heart of Boris Johnson’s vision. We need to reach out to new MPs and make the case for housing.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Swing voters and housing policy. Survey shows housing is a top issue for swing voters, second only to health.

Fire safety measures in high-rise blocks. Read our response to the Government's proposals on sprinklers and other fire safety measures. 

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.  

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.

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.
 

Brownfield map. Our digital map plots all brownfield land sites in England.

Building safety regulation. Specific points of regulation and legislation in the context of fire safety.

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.

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.

Hackitt Review. The key findings of the review of building regulation and fire safety.

Development guide. Specifically tailored for smaller housing associations, this guide to development describes each stage of the process and outlinea useful project management techniques.

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.

Accounting and the Housing SORP. We’re working with housing associations and finance bodies on the International Financial Reporting Standard and the Housing SORP.

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.

Stopping the rise in BME homelessness. Tackling homelessness in BME communities a key focus of the BME National mission statement.

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.

Our policy work. We’re working with the Government to help housing associations deliver more new homes. 

Together with Tenants - updates and reflections.

Supply conversation. We’ve been holding a sector-wide conversation with our members to explore how we can build more homes. 

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

NHS prevention Green Paper. Read our response to the Government’s proposed approach to putting prevention at the centre of healthcare.

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.

Homes for BME Communities. The Federation has been working with BME National to highlight how the Government can work with the housing sector to improve housing for BME communities in England.

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.

Response to consultation on repealing section 21.

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."

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.

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

Working together to end homelessness. How local authorities and housing associations can work together to end homelessness.

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.

Affordability of private rental properties. Our research shows 9 out of 10 homes for rent are unaffordable for families on housing benefit.

Resident engagement. We’ve been feeding into the Government’s plans to ensure that residents receive the information they need to remain safe in their homes.

Public Inquiry. The Grenfell Tower Inquiry published its Phase 1 report on 30 October 2019. The focus of Phase 1 has been to establish what happened on the night of 14 June 2017. The report has been welcomed by survivors for its wide-ranging findings.

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? As part of the Homelessness Reduction Act, public bodies are bound by the Duty to Refer. This is an obligation to refer anyone to a local authority if they are homeless or threatened with homelessness.   Housing associations are not part of this, but many of our members are keen to support the act, so we worked with MHCLG to develop a housing association offer on the Duty to Refer. We have called this the Commitment to Refer. Find out more about the Commitment, including how your organisation can sign up.

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.

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.

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?

Right to Shared Ownership. Our response to the Government's proposal to introduce a Right to Shared Ownership.

Together with Tenants. What are the key questions you should be asking within your organisation ahead of the 2020 rollout? 

8.4 million people in need of a suitable home – briefing and resources. We’ve published new research revealing that 8.4 million people across England are waiting for a suitable home.

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.

Preparing for Brexit – member briefing. This briefing sets out the key challenges Brexit may bring for housing associations and how the sector can prepare.

Consultation on a New Homes Ombudsman. The Government is committed to legislating so that developers of market tenure homes must belong to a New Homes Ombudsman, and has recently consulted on the details of how such an Ombudsman would work.

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.

Do you want to get #boardready? The programme for future housing leaders is helping to bring new talent with fresh ideas into the boardroom.

Rural Housing Week. Rural Housing Week is our annual celebration of rural housing when we work with housing associations to reinforce the message that housing is vital for the survival of rural communities and services.

Landlord regulation. Housing associations are regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing, and the regulatory environment is changing rapidly. 

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

Voluntary Right to Buy principles. In 2015, the National Housing Federation, on behalf of its members, put forward a proposal to the Government to deliver its commitment to extend Right to Buy to housing association tenants by way of voluntary agreement rather than legislation. This included several key principles.

Voluntary Right to Buy. Find out how Voluntary Right to Buy will work in practice – delivering for tenants, for housing associations and for the Government.

Voluntary Right to Buy pilots. Since the Voluntary Right to Buy (VRTB) agreement was reached in 2015, the Government has set up two pilot schemes to help test how it will work in practice, and ensure a smooth experience for tenants.

Building a safer future consultation response.

Supply Conversation – interim report. In January 2019, we began a sector-wide conversation with housing associations to explore how we can build more homes. Our interim report looks at the findings so far.

Together with Tenants revised plan. View the Together with Tenants plan early adopter organisations are testing and evaluating. 

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.

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.

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.

Continued application of the VAT cost-sharing exemption. The VAT Cost Sharing Exemption is to continue to apply for housing associations. Deloitte explains why this is important for the sector and how it will continue to benefit National Housing Federation members.

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.

National Housing Federation's response to Theresa May's announcement on social housing.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

Code of Governance. Have your say as we work with members and stakeholders to revise our Code of Governance.

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.

Changes to standards for new homes. The Prime Minister has announced important changes to requirements for new homes, covering space standards and accessibility. 

New shared ownership campaign launched. Our shared ownership campaign is boosting the profile of this great product across the country on a scale that’s never been done before.

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

Treausry. Keep up to date with the latest on treasury issues.

Tax. We're working with our tax advisors Deloitte 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.

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.

Building Better, Building Beautiful Commission.

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.

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

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.

Governance. Helping housing associations to establish an effective governance framework.

Great Places . Read the final report from the Great Places Commission, setting out 10 clear recommendations for housing associations, the Government and local partners.

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.

Land.

Health, care and housing. Strong partnerships ensure that housing and health can effectively deliver positive outcomes for the public purse, and for the people and communities who benefit from their services.

Finance. Find the latest updates on social housing finance and key resources to help you manage your organisation.

Find out about the latest and most ambitious stage of our innovation programme. Housing Futures is the latest and most ambitious stage of the Federation's award-winning innovation programme. This is the biggest collaborative exercise ever undertaken by our sector, with housing associations across the UK coming together to learn by doing.

Building safety. The latest on the work of housing associations to make buildings safe.

Five updates on building and fire safety. This includes an update on the new government testing programme on other types of cladding.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Supported housing update. This article provides updates on the work the Federation continues to do, our work with the Government on oversight, and how members can get involved in the near future.

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.

LGPS employer base review – Tier 3 update. The Local Government Pension Scheme Advisory Board has been conducting a review of the treatment of Tier 3 employers across all UK funds. Our pensions advisers KPMG provide an update on progress.

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.

Addressing a post-Brexit skills shortage. A post-Brexit shortage of construction workers will be a significant barrier to building more homes.

Approved Document B. Read the NHF submission to the Government’s consultation on fire safety guidance.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Brexit may feel uncertain, but we can still prepare for the future. Our new briefing sets out the key challenges Brexit may bring for housing associations and how we can be ready for what may come.

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.

VAT update – service charge concession rule change. HMRC has recently issued a brief concerning VAT exemption for domestic service charges. Deloitte explains the detail.

It's time to engage with the Government’s Industrial Strategy. Housing associations should be involved in shaping Local Industrial Strategies.

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.

Housing SORP: 2018 update.

Fire safety. Read our response to the government’s consultation on the clarification of Approved Document B (ADB) of the Building Regulations.

Why we signed up to the Commitment to Refer. Don’t underestimate the impact your organisation can have on ending homelessness.

Over 200 housing associations pledge to tackle homelessness. 201 housing associations have pledged to tackle homelessness by signing the Commitment to Refer.

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.

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.

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.

Board Appraisal: The importance of honest conversations.

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

Developing Affordable Housing (3rd edition).

Example Standard Mortgagee Protection Clause. A Securitisation Working Group (SWG) made up of various sector stakeholders has formulated an example mortgagee protection clause.

Countering Fraud.

Flooding toolkit. Case studies, timelines, template packs and top tips to help manage in the event of a flood.

Board Members' Resource Pack - governance/induction set.

Board Members' Resource Pack - operational set.

Board Members' Resource Pack.

Housing Standards Handbook.

Mergers, Group Structures and Partnerships voluntary code. This code gives housing associations a framework for mergers, group structures or other partnerships.

Understanding Development Appraisal.

Service Charges (5th Edition).

Board Member Pay.

Model Rules. The Model Rules have been revised so they are compliant with recent legislation, good practice, and regulatory requirements.

Code of Governance. Promoting board excellence for housing associations.

Understanding Assurance.

Finance Demystified.

Risk Management.

Code of Conduct 2012.

Depreciation Matrix 2012.

Leadership and control.

National matrix of property components 2011.

Model shared ownership lease. This briefing takes you through the new model shared ownership lease published by the Homes and Communities Agency.

Contract Management.

Procurement in Practice.