News & blogs

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.

Modern methods of construction are an innovation we need to embrace to tackle the housing crisis

John Newbury, Senior Independent Director at LiveWest and Chair of RHP, gives a boards' perspective on adopting modern methods of construction in development projects.

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.

Consultation open for new First Homes policy

Read our initial response to this consultation, and our plans to coordinate a sector-wide response.

What have we learnt from helping to house a refugee family?

‘If you can, why don’t you?’ This was the question we were asked when approached to house the only Syrian refuge family to have settled in Birmingham as part of the Community Sponsorship programme.

Response to First Homes proposal

These proposals could make it more difficult for housing associations and councils to provide homes for lower income families.

Board member in the spotlight: Danielle Oum

In our latest board member in the spotlight feature, Danielle Oum, Chair of whg, explains what makes a great housing association chair, and why we need to foster a stronger relationship between health and housing.

Putting residents at the heart of Housing Futures

While Housing Futures will engage with housing associations and residents alike, in the East of England, our steering group is determined to put residents at the heart of the programme.

Investing in projects which make our places great is simply the right thing to do

Join Citizen's Colin Dennis to talk about why investing in projects which make our places great is simply the right thing to do.

Update from the West Midlands (January 2020)

An update from Boris Worrall, Group Chief Executive Rooftop Housing, and Chair of the West Midlands Regional Committee.

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.

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.

What does the new year bring for housing association board members?

NHF Chair Baroness Diana Warwick looks ahead to what 2020 might bring for housing association board members.

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.

Our shared ownership campaign is going public – now it’s time to make a real impact

A strong new message for shared ownership forms the basis of an ambitious nationwide advertising programme.

Helping the sector to speak 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.

Home Office to launch Fire Kills Campaign

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

When is transformation truly transformational – and when’s it not?

I’ve been doing some research for a social housing client which has meant reading a lot of corporate strategies and Value for Money statements from housing associations. The word that crops up time and time again is ‘transformation’ – and in many cases, it’s preceded by the word ‘digital’. It made me think about whether these transformations were reality or fantasy – and how you tell whether an initiative is truly transformational?

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.
 

An update on the LIBOR to SONIA transition

Ahead of the switch from LIBOR to SONIA, we provide a further update, including the work the Federation is doing, and how to bridge the gap for three-month LIBOR contracts.

Housing can be at the heart of Boris Johnson’s vision for Britain

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.

Our member satisfaction survey is changing

What do we know about “honour-based” violence?

One thing we know for sure about domestic abuse is that its impact is extremely harmful to a person’s physical, mental and social wellbeing. Its manifestation has multiple forms and for many South Asian women it presents as “honour-based” violence (HBV).

Did you know disabled people are 1.5 times 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.

Is your organisation making demonstrable 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.

Three reasons you should engage with your local candidates in the pre-election period

Housing associations should not wait to engage with the next cohort of decision-makers.
 

If a man was experiencing domestic abuse, would you recognise it?

Domestic abuse doesn’t just impact white, straight women. Ahead of the next National Housing Federation domestic abuse forum, we look at how it affects men.

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.

Our updated brownfield land map helps to identify sites for building new homes

Finding available land to build new homes on isn’t always straightforward. We’ve updated our brownfield map to help make it easier.

How should housing associations prepare for the general election?

Politicians may come and go, but housing associations are here for the long term.

Let’s talk about race

BME National are determined to take the ‘mute’ off race conversations in the housing sector – that’s why we’ve launched a new mission statement.

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 make sure the next government works with us to 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.

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.

How can housing associations help stop rising figures of 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.

Update on Right to Shared Ownership

The Government has announced changes to the shared ownership model, and that it intends to take forward Right to Shared Ownership as an official government policy.
 

Update from the West Midlands Regional Committee

Update from Boris Worrall, Group Chair of the the West Midlands Regional Committee, which brings together leaders from housing associations across the region to help shape and deliver NHF work both nationally and in the West Midlands region. 

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.

The new Green Paper on planning is an opportunity to improve the process

Next month’s Accelerated Planning Green Paper should bring more substance and an opportunity to pitch proposals for improvement

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.

We need to broaden our view of domestic abuse

Housing providers are in a unique position to support LGBT victims of domestic abuse.

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?

Our response to the Right to Shared Ownership announcement

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

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.

Update on our sector intelligence survey

Your responses to the survey help us to understand our members’ needs and better tailor our services.

What could the climate crisis mean for housing association 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.

130,000 families forced to live in one-bed flats

A severe shortage of homes is forcing families to squeeze into one-bedroom flats, according to a new report from the National Housing Federation. 

Why we should all get behind the new shared ownership campaign

National Housing Federation response to new Conservative Party leader

In response to the election of the new leader of the Conservative Party, Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation has released a statement on behalf of the organisation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Response to the findings of the Dame Hackitt's Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety

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.

Response to the Prime Minister's announcement on lifting the council borrowing cap

Today, in her speech to the Conservative Party Conference, the Prime Minister announced that the Government will lift the borrowing cap on councils to help support more housebuilding.

The end of LIBOR and the arrival of SONIA

We update on the move from LIBOR to SONIA, which will affect housing associations that borrow from banks or other financial institutions.

Why rural housing deserves the spotlight this week

Growing up in rural Cornwall, just outside a tiny village between Penzance and St Ives, I was incredibly lucky to spend my childhood exploring the countryside, building tree houses, spending time with my friends on the beach, and eating a lot of Cornish ice cream 

Revising our 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 announced by the Government

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

Capital grant required to meet social housing need in England 2021

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.

The role of boards in meeting the supply challenge

£12.8bn needed every year to end the housing crisis

New research from the National Housing Federation reveals that the Government must invest £12.8bn a year to finally end the housing crisis in England.

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.

Reflections on the fire at Grenfell Tower

A tragedy like the fire at Grenfell Tower must never happen again. We must learn, reflect, and never forget the 72 people who lost their lives in the tragic events of 14 June 2017. All of us in housing must do everything in our power to make sure this never happens again.

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.

The Social Housing Green Paper

We want your views on the Social Housing Green Paper.

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.

Dispatches from the (party political) fringe

At the end of the political conference season, Jessica Levy reflects on what this means for the housing sector.

Reflections on the Chancellor’s Budget 2018

This year’s Budget was not the quiet, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it fiscal event that many anticipated. With Brexit on the horizon and significant uncertainty persisting, many were ready to forgive Philip Hammond if this Budget had passed relatively unnoticed.

Spending money well, to improve lives

Summary RE Spending money well, to improve lives

Housing Inequalities

How housing inequalities impact on mental health and wellbeing

An update from the West Midlands Regional Committee(2)

Progress on Permitted Development

The Government has responded to feedback on its recent Planning reform: supporting the high street and increasing the delivery of new homes consultation.

Five updates on building and fire safety

This includes an update on the new government testing programme on other types of cladding.

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.

New guidance to help identify tenants at risk of county lines exploitation

New guidance from the Home Office and CrimeStoppers aims to help housing association staff identify and support vulnerable tenants.

Almost 3 million children from working families in poverty

Figures released by the Government today show a further rise in the number of children from working families living in poverty. This is an increase of 833,000 children since 2010.

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

HMRC published a briefing last year on the VAT exemption provided under the service charges concession rule change. This update from Deloitte outlines how exemptions could apply under different provisions for those providers who are no longer VAT exempt.

Changing tenure on unsold properties − what are the tax implications?

Local Government Pension Scheme 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.

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.

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.

Six housing announcements from the Spring Statement 2019

The Spring Statement 2019 contained six main housing announcements.

Response to the Spring Statement

On behalf of the organisation James Prestwich, Head of Policy at the National Housing Federation has released a statement.

Addressing a post-Brexit skills shortage in the construction sector

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

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.

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.

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.

Half a million more children in poverty in private rented homes than ten years ago

Research by the National Housing Federation has revealed that there are now an estimated 1.3 million children living in poverty in privately rented homes in England, an increase of 537,325 children (69%) since 2008.

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.

IR35 changes for the private sector

The Autumn Budget confirmed that the proposed reforms to the taxation of personal service companies in the private sector will be implemented from 6 April 2020.

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.

Government ban on combustible materials

The Government has set out details of their ban on the use of combustible materials in buildings over 18m in height.

What does the Social Housing Green Paper mean for the world of housing association finance?

The new ideas set out could have significant implications for the sector’s finances, which do after all, underpin everything that we collectively seek to achieve.

The Government’s Industrial Strategy is taking shape at local level and now is the time to engage

Housing associations should be involved in shaping Local Industrial Strategies.

Four reasons why we've signed 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.

Social housing spending at record low

At the National Housing Federation Annual Conference, Chief Executive David Orr will today warn that social housing funding is in crisis, unless the Government is prepared to make a break with the past and start funding new genuinely affordable homes.