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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.

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.

Working in partnership to build new homes

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

Decoding devolution: lessons from established housing partnerships

Insightful discussion, showcasing the value of partnership working to deliver regional priorities.

How partnerships can help housing associations to tackle homelessness

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

Clarion - Partnership working to help resident’s individual needs

Clarion: partnership working to help resident’s individual needs Effective partnership working between ... Sustainment Officer called a meeting for all partnership agencies to come together at the same table and

Partnership working to house people in urgent need

Download resources on providing housing for domestic abuse survivors and rough sleepers.

Creating partnerships with health and social care for better commissioning

Our briefing outlines the importance of partnerships, and ways housing associations can demonstrate their value and forge partnerships with the NHS in their local area.

Working in partnership with residents to deliver Together with Tenants

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

Allocations: Strengthening partnership working between local authorities and housing associations

Watch this webinar to explore practical strategies for overcoming barriers, reducing delays, and improving efficiency in social housing allocations.

Karbon Homes’ partnership with Northumbrian Water helps thousands of customers reduce their water rates

The Money Matters team at Karbon Homes have been working with Northumbrian Water through its Support Plus scheme to not only achieve the best rates for customers, but also help them with any ongoing debt. 

Working in partnership to mitigate against the cost of living crisis webinar

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

How partnership working can help housing associations tackle domestic abuse (interview)

A video interview with Calico Group CEO Anthony Duerden and Alex Atkinson, Head of Support Services at SafeNet about how they work together to tackle domestic abuse.

Funding to strengthen local partnerships to prevent and end rough sleeping

The prospectus for the DLUHC Voluntary and Community Frontline Sector Support Grant is now live. Applications for the four separate lines of the fund are due by 1 April.

How can housing associations and the DWP work successfully in partnership?

Last year, we surveyed members to explore the relationships between housing associations, partnership managers at the DWP and Jobcentre Plus.

What do the Affordable Homes Programme 21-26 strategic partnership grant allocations tell us?

Nathan Pickles, Corporate Finance Consultant at Wharfedale Associates, takes a closer look at what the strategic partnership grant allocations mean.

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.

Why housing associations must build strong partnerships with local authorities in a challenging financial landscape

Dominic Bradley, Chair of Birmingham Social Housing Partnership, tells us why now is the time for housing associations to build strong relationships with local authorities.

Working in partnership to improve cybersecurity in the social housing sector

At the NHF we know from member feedback that cybersecurity is a concern. We can now offer a tool that helps organisations assess and mitigate cyber risks - and we have 100 free CyberPrepare licenses available for our smaller members.

What the NHF is doing to encourage partnership working to end homelessness

The NHF is working to provide opportunities for housing associations to learn about partnership working and discuss possible approaches going forwards.

Our response to the consultation on community safety partnerships review and antisocial behaviour powers

Read our response to the Home Office consultation on community safety partnerships review and antisocial behaviour powers.

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.

Mergers, Group Structures and Partnerships: a voluntary code for housing associations

This code gives housing associations a framework for mergers, group structures or other partnerships.

How successful local partnerships can secure sustainable funding for supported housing

Heardirectly from supported housing providers that have recently secured sustainable funding for their schemes from local authorities and the NHS.

Housing associations working alongside the NHS webinar

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

Living Well

A partnership between a housing association and healthcare providers in Sheffield is allowing people with complex histories and multiple evictions to maintain their own tenancies.

Best practice case studies (cost of living)

There is a lot housing associations can do to help their residents with the cost of living crisis. Here, you'll find examples of innovative projects and partnerships that have had a material impact on residents and their finances.

National Devolution Network

The latest developments around devolution, sharing lessons from devolved areas and housing partnerships across the country and inform the work of the NHF.

Case study: Blaby District Council and emh group – Leicestershire

emh group and Blaby District Council have been working together in Leicestershire since 2008 to deliver more homes to the county.

Case studies

Clarion - partnership working to help support resident’s individual needs  Effective partnership working ... how they support residents through effective partnership working with referral partners. whg - why tenancy

NHF and Homeless Link webinar

During this webinar, we hear about good practice in housing management, partnerships and joint working as well as case studies from three social landlord providers involved in the delivery of Housing First. 

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

Becoming a Preferred Supplier

Our Preferred Suppliers partnership is a bespoke multi-year agreement with organisations looking to develop long-term relationships with housing associations.

Working together to end homelessness

We are working with the Local Government Association (LGA) to bring together housing associations and local authorities to tackle homelessness together.

Every decision about care should be a decision about housing booklet

With the introduction of Integrated Care Systems, it is vital that housing associations are involved in local health and care plans to guarantee a joined up, robust and effective health service.

This publication includes a range of different examples of how housing associations are working in partnership to achieve positive health outcomes.

Contact us

AIzaSyAU8EL1C4AMpNY_n-AEoBjPUkVrXCQTjqU National Housing Federation Lion Court 25 Procter Street ... the Federation. London We offer a range of partnership opportunities to external organisations who want

Delivering Great Homes

The Delivering Great Homes group shapes, informs and influences our work on new supply and development.

Case study: Greater Manchester Housing Providers

Greater Manchester Housing Providers has been working in a joint venture with Greater Manchester Combined Authority since 2010.

Coronavirus testing, winter planning and infection control in supported housing settings (webinar)

This webinar focused on operating whole scheme testing, partnership working, clinical governance and infection prevention, dealing with staffing pressures and Test and Trace. Housing associations share their strategies for protecting residents and staff and there will be plenty of time for questions.

Opportunities for housing associations in the new era of devolution

Devolution offers housing associations a key chance not just to shape regional partnerships that can build affordable, decent homes, but also to set a template for innovation and investment across the UK.

Devolution toolkit

To support our members as devolution rolls out across the country, the NHF has created a devolution toolkit. The toolkit includes regional data breakdowns, political engagement tools and best practice examples of work from established housing partnerships. 

Putting social housing on the Secretary of State’s New Year agenda

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

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.

York and North Yorkshire Affordable Homes Standard

The York and North Yorkshire Housing Partnership developed an affordable homes standard to improve the standard and consistency of the affordable homes secured through Section 106 agreements.

The new Affordable Homes Programme – what are the potential impacts on financial planning?

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

Case study: Bridge Homes – Wakefield

Bridge Homes Yorkshire is a joint venture between Wakefield District Homes and Wakefield Council, formed in 2014.

What the UK Shared Prosperity Fund could mean for housing associations

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

Housing homeless families webinar

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

Partners

commitment to innovation, quality and value.  NHF partnerships are designed to solve the problems you face ... out more Who to speak to Partnerships team Partners Partners partnerships@housing.org.uk Partners

Research into the supported housing sector’s impact on homelessness prevention, health and wellbeing

The NHF in partnership with Imogen Blood & Associates and the University of York has published research into the supported housing sector’s impact on homelessness prevention, health and wellbeing.

Become a member

How to join To check whether your organisation is already a NHF member, search this ... Federation. Other organisations may join our partnership schemes, which offers the chance to build relationships

Pensions accounting guidance

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.

NHF launch new cybersecurity tool for members

CyberPrepare, launched in partnership with our preferred suppliers PIB and Phoenix, helps organisations assess and mitigate cyber risks, which in turn often leads to reduced cyber insurance premiums.

Work with us

At present, we are refining our approach to partnerships and future collaborations will be extended solely ... LLP Disclosure Statement for Members The NHF Partnership team conducts comprehensive due diligence on

Consultation on the Housing Ombudsman Business Plan 2026-27

In March 2026, the Housing Ombudsman ran a consultation on their Business Plan 2026-27, we have submitted a response on behalf of our members.

Abri

A case study from Abri, in partnership with Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and The Society of St James, supported by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Integrated Care System.

What do we do?

We deliver positive change for our members by understanding and anticipating the critical issues affecting their businesses and the sector.

Homes for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc

New report promotes the role of housing associations in the Oxford-Cambridge Arc in helping the region to develop and grow.

Empowering resilient communities

During this webinar, a panel of sector leaders discuss how, since the riots of August 2024, they have worked with residents and staff to build empowered communities and increase trust.

Greater Manchester Tripartite Agreement

The Greater Manchester Tripartite Agreement is a collaboration between the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership, Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Greater Manchester Housing Providers (GMHP) working together to take action on housing, health and care.

Why embedding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across the social housing sector is so important

Kim Long, NHF External Affairs Manager and EDI Lead, talks about the work we are doing in partnership with members to create positive change at all organisational levels.

Case studies

How are housing associations tackling homelessness? We’ve been collecting best practice stories ... homelessness through social homes and working in partnership to deliver housing schemes that provide safe

Local Supported Housing Strategies Guidance

On this page, we explain how the guidance impacts housing associations, and next steps for working in partnership with local authorities. 

NHF response to the government's Homelessness Strategy

Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation responds to the government's Homelessness Strategy.

Affordable Homes Programme 2021-26

The government's Affordable Homes Programme plans to deliver up to 180,000 new homes.

Kerslake Commission on Homelessness and Rough sleeping - interim report published

This report from the Commision - of which the NHF is a part - includes examples of savings brought about by homelessness prevention.

The Social and Affordable Homes Programme

As part of its June 2025 Spending Review, the government announced £39bn in funding for the next Affordable Homes Programme which will be titled the Social and Affordable Homes Programme.

Change in action: Launching the Black History Month 365 Fund

BHM 365 is a small grants fund that supports community groups to run community and cultural activities that educate and celebrate Black history and culture all year round.

The Union Village regeneration scheme

In this case study, Thirteen Housing Group explains how, by working in partnership with Middlesbrough Council and the Tees Valley Combined Authority, they created high‑quality homes, strengthened community resilience and supported long‑term economic growth.

Developing a North East Housing and Construction Careers Programme

The North East Housing Partnership (NEHP) is working with further education providers to develop a North East Construction and Housing Academy. This Academy will support the delivery of new affordable homes and retrofit work in the North East while providing opportunities for young people in the region. 

Building Safety Bill – implications for the sector

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

Free new falls prevention toolkit reduced falls by 69% in pilot

Two years ago, in partnership with RoSPA, Trent & Dove created a home safety project for older and vulnerable customers. Now, the data is clear: visiting customers and guiding them through an evidence-based framework helps them avoid falls.

Poplar HARCA - collaborating to support residents through challenges

In this case study, Poplar HARCA explain how they support residents through effective partnership working with referral partners.

Grand Union Housing Group

minimised delays. Working in partnership The scheme also boasts a partnerships forum, made up of elected ... gardening, and cleaning services. The aim is for the partnership to develop and give customers a platform to inform

More than just landlords: taking a holistic approach to supporting residents

successful partnership working with other agencies, and the challenges with partnership working or barriers ... under 3 themes: Tenancy sustainment. Strong partnership working. Using and responding to data. They highlight

National Communications and Influencing Group

Our Communications Group supports and advises us on our communications, campaigns and influencing work.

National Housing Federation Business Strategy 2025-30

Our ambitious new business strategy sets out what we want to achieve over the next five years in partnership with our members and other key stakeholders, leading to better outcomes for everyone.

Change in action: Working together on corporate planning with Greatwell Homes

Our 'Change in action' series of case studies showcases best practice from around the sector from housing associations implementing the BSHR recommendations.

Bolton at Home

Find out how housing associations can support young people with severe mental illness and avoid inpatient re-admittance.

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.

Purple Tuesday – how we’re improving the customer experience for disabled people

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

Finding a safe home after hospital

New NHF research exploring how the NHS and supported housing providers are working together to help patients find a safe home after hospital.

Meet the leadership team

Meet members of our Leadership Team at the NHF.

Why member engagement is at the heart of everything we do

Simon Nunn, Executive Director of Member Services at the NHF, explains in his blog why the results of our annual survey of member chief executives and chairs are so important.

The advantages of place-based housing approaches when developing in rural communities

As part of our 2021-2026 strategic partnership with Homes England, we committed to delivering over 220 new homes in rural communities. It’s been far from a walk in the park but we met that target and have learnt some valuable lessons along the way.

Homes at the Heart

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

Our response to the government’s updated strategy on rough sleeping

Read our response to the government’s updated strategy on rough sleeping.

Winter Pressures Funding for rough sleeper accommodation

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

Reciprocal transfer schemes for people at risk of domestic abuse

This webinar investigates reciprocal transfer schemes and how they can benefit residents that have been victims of domestic abuse.

Cost of living crisis: how are housing associations supporting residents?

This webinar shares best practices for supporting residents struggling with the cost of living.

How housing associations are using voids during the coronavirus crisis

New briefing shares examples of housing associations providing homes for those who need to move urgently.

Business models available

different, and they are flexible with the way a partnership is managed and policies are administered. Selecting ... requirements. Their team are prepared to support the partnership, offering you access to a range of hassle-free

Business models available

different, and they are flexible with the way a partnership is managed and policies are administered. Selecting ... requirements. Their team are prepared to support the partnership, offering you access to a range of hassle-free

English devolution and rural affordable housing: opportunities and risks

Research funded by the NHF together with members and other key rural stakeholders demonstrates how devolution in England can, with political leadership and collaboration, help to deliver the affordable homes that rural communities need.

Case studies

We've collected a range of case studies of housing associations providing services and supported housing to avoid readmissions to hospital and to help people to live independently and within their communities.

emh - Homes for Cathy

Read more about how emh worked to meet the Homes for Cathy commitments and helped tackle homelessness for residents of social housing.

How can housing associations best help people off the street and into a long term home?

In the last year, the number of rough sleepers has fallen dramatically in London and across England. What made this radical change possible and, more importantly, how can we keep the momentum going and end rough sleeping for good?

Our new pensions advisers and Preferred Supplier - LCP

The NHF has recently partnered with LCP as its new pensions advisers. Following a competitive tender process, LCP introduce themselves to the NHF members. We’re looking forward to working with them and forming a lasting partnership.  

Housing homeless families

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

Code of Conduct for smaller housing associations

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

Strategies to support mental health

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

What are organisations doing to support disability, mental health and wellbeing in the workplace?

During this webinar we heard how organisations are becoming Disability Confident Employers and what initiatives are supporting disability, mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

Older Person’s Housing Group

Older Person’s Housing Group Older Person’s Housing Group Older Person’s Housing Group   ... Abbeyfield Society Wendy Wells, The Guinness Partnership Sally Nichols, The Riverside Group Ltd Sara Featherstone

Building safety national group

We set up the building safety national group to reflect the importance of the ongoing work and challenges that we face as a sector.

Work with us

The NHF is the voice of housing associations in England, representing almost 600 housing association members that provide homes for around six million people.

Advice for the safe reopening of night homeless shelters

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

Statement on Right to Buy

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

Committed to rural communities

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

Why effective collaboration with Managing Agents is vital for impactful supported housing

Learn why effective collaboration through the cost of living crisis and beyond is vital for impactful supported from Patrick Ryan, Chief Executive Officer at Hestia.

Responding to domestic abuse during lockdown and beyond

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

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.

whg: why tenancy sustainment is an organisation-wide priority

In this case study, whg explain why helping residents stay in their homes and overcome challenges is an organisational priority.

NHF response to announcements on rent convergence, Decent Homes Standard, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard, Section 106

Today’s announcements provide vital certainty for the social housing sector, delivering a serious, long-term plan for social housing.

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.

An update from the West Midlands Regional Committee (May 2019)

Bringing together leaders from housing associations across the West Midlands to help shape and deliver the NHF's work both nationally and in the region. 

New research on adapting allocations policies in response to the coronavirus crisis

We surveyed housing associations on changes to their allocations approach during the pandemic

Customer Experience and Housing Management National Group

The NHF’s new Customer Experience and Housing Management National Group has been created to lead, inform and influence our work on housing management, customer service and resident engagement.

Home Group’s hospital discharge and mental health services

Rosie Lynch provides an insight into Home Group's Hospital Discharge Service offering housing advice and support for patients recovering from mental health difficulties to live in the community, make a home and achieve a better quality of life.

Diversity statement

We're committed to diversity, equality and inclusion for all our staff and members.

Our response to the Right to Shared Ownership announcement

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

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

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.

Second phase of complaints handling campaign launched

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) are running a second campaign to raise awareness of, and increase confidence in the social housing complaints making process.

National Board Member Network - April 2023

This meeting covers the Better Social Housing Review and Roadmap to equality: an inclusive future.

Risk and assurance for smaller housing associations webinar

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

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'.

Local Economic Impact Calculator

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

Our submission to the HCLG Committee coronavirus inquiry on homelessness and the PRS

Read our submission to the HCLG Select Committee Inquiry on the impact of coronavirus on homelessness and rough sleeping.

Starts at Home - Securing Commitment to Supported Housing in a #PlanForHousing webinar

Celebrate Starts at Home Day and support the campaign for 167,000 more homes by 2040. Watch our webinar to see how supported housing providers partner with local authorities and the NHS to meet housing needs.

Covid-19 Inquiry Module 9 submission

Read the NHF's full submission to Module 9 of the Covid-19 Inquiry. 

Regenerating Older Person's Housing

We have an ageing population - and this is something to celebrate - but it brings with it challenges for housing.

Our principles of co-creation with residents

Find out how resident feedback could and should be helping you redesign your services and customer journeys from Sovereign.

How housing associations are helping to 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.

The draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill: why housing associations should engage now

In this blog, Kevin Dunleavy, Head of Leasehold Services at The Guinness Partnership, explains what the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill means for housing associations.

Aston Barclay

Meet NHF partner Aston Barclay, the UK’s leading supplier of used vehicle remarketing services, comprising of with two business units Aston Barclay Remarketing and The Car Buying Group.

Extra governance support for smaller housing associations

A new service for National Housing Federation members with fewer than 2,000 properties.

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.

Tackling domestic abuse at Octavia Housing

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

English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill

The Bill builds on the English Devolution White Paper and sets out how the government plans to achieve its ambitions for devolution across the country.

Why the results of our annual chief executives and chairs survey are so important

Reflecting on our recently published impact report for 2025, Simon Nunn, Executive Director of Member Services at the NHF, explains in his blog how working in partnership with members leads to better outcomes for everyone.

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.

Lockdown 2.0 – business as usual?

Update from Boris Worrall, West Midlands Regional Committee Chair.

Building Safety Levy – our response to the latest consultation

We've recently responded the government’s consultation on the Building Safety Levy. In our response we recommend a number of measures to minimise the impact the levy could have on the supply of affordable homes.

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.

Rural homelessness: England's hidden crisis

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

Together with Tenants - voice, influence and accountability (webinar)

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

Housing associations as anchor institutions: a toolkit

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

Helping people with No Recourse to Public Funds avoid homelessness: what housing associations can do

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

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.

Planning housing for an ageing population

This webinar examines ways to overcome the barriers to developing housing for older people and how to make the case locally for planning housing for an ageing population.

What does the Commonhold White Paper mean for housing associations?

This webinar provides an overview of the Commonhold White Paper, what it means for housing associations, and how the sector should prepare.

Community cohesion roundtables – summary of discussions

A summary of discussions about dealing with rising tensions within communities, and details how we will support NHF members through this period.

Tenant Advisory Panel

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.

New Disabled Facilities Grant guidance

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

NHF response to the general election results 2024

Today, the country welcomes in a new government following a general election. 

Meeting the domestic abuse requirements proposed in the social housing white paper

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

How Abri is using the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund to improve residents’ homes and reduce their energy bills

Every home in the programme saw its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating increase from EPC D to EPC A or B, the highest ratings for energy efficiency.

The importance of ‘hope, honour and respect’ this Remembrance Day

Chief Executive of Alabaré Christian Care & Support, Andrew Lord, considers the role housing associations can play in housing and supporting homeless veterans this Remembrance Day. 

Signed up to the Commitment to Refer

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

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.

Government launches Social and Affordable Homes Programme prospectuses

Across these documents, the government encourages strong, ambitious bids and highlights the importance of supported, rural and community-led housing.

Decarbonisation of housing association homes - a briefing for external stakeholders

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

Now is the time to have your say on the future of leasehold

In this blog, Kevin Dunleavy, Head of Leasehold Services at the Guinness Partnership, explains why it's important that housing associations respond to the government's consultation on leasehold reform.

Dismantling social housing stigma

While the government’s efforts to address housing standards are a step in the right direction, real change must come from within the sector itself.

2020 Spending Review - the role social housing can play in recovery

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

My Home Contents Insurance

Affordable and flexible scheme designed to protect your tenants.

Using co-production to build relationships with residents and shape services at Riverside

Mickey Clark reviews how Riverside Housing Group have rolled out co-production to strengthen relationships with residents by working together to shape and design their services.

Quality of Existing Homes Group

The group supports us in developing and testing new policy ideas, shaping wider member support, gathering vital market intelligence, informing our responses to government and other key stakeholders, and promoting great quality in the sector.

Supported oversight housing pilots - DLUHC final evaluation

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have published their final evaluation of the supported oversight housing pilots.

Launching the first Building Better framework

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

Homes England opens up Affordable Homes Programme funding for regeneration projects

For years the NHF has made the case that grant funding rules must be amended to allow housing associations to replace existing home. We are pleased that Homes England has listened to our calls.

Research report on how housing associations use the Housing First model and recommendations for delivery

This report explores how housing associations are using the Housing First model as a means to address homelessness.

VAT grouping consultation – NHF response

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

NHF submissions to Labour's National Policy Forum Consultation 2020

Environment, energy and culture submission Member only Economic recovery and renewal after ... The fund should be designed and implemented in partnership with the sector.    Please login to access this

The sector's history

The history of housing associations Housing associations have their roots in early philanthropy ... associations – such as Peabody, the Guinness Partnership and Octavia – were founded in this period. Housing

How to engage with a strategic authority

This briefing explains what a strategic authority is, the roles and responsibilities of the different officials and how best to engage with them. 

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.

My Home Contents Insurance

Affordable and flexible scheme designed to protect your tenants.

Engaging with residents to help shape Notting Hill Genesis’s sustainability strategy

Notting Hill Genesis housing association have been engaging with residents to help shape their new sustainability strategy as part of ambitions for a more sustainable future.

How the government could use the Autumn Statement to help the UK reach net zero by 2050

We urge the government to use the Autumn Statement to reaffirm its commitment to the Social Housing Dedcarbonisation Fund by releasing the remainder of the fund.

How Housing First’s fidelity framework helps tackle homelessness

With the right help and support, people can leave homelessness behind for good. Emily Cole, Programme Lead at GM Housing First tells us how the fidelity framework helps achieve this.

How can housing associations’ role as anchor institutions help prevent homelessness?

Neil Munslow, Housing Services Manager at Newcastle City Council, explains the key role that social landlords can play in preventing homelessness.

Could your organisation be doing more to end homelessness?

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

Westward Housing marks 16 Days of Activism against Gendered-Based Violence

To mark this year’s campaign against gendered-based violence learn how Westward Housing is raising awareness around domestic abuse. 

As the countdown to COP26 begins, where are housing associations on the journey to net zero?

With the eyes of the world on the UK, this is a unique opportunity for both the government and our sector to show real leadership.

Creating a baseline for equality, diversity and inclusion

Find out why it's so important to have an EDI baseline in the housing sector with Sonja.

Reducing ‘hidden’ homelessness – collaboration and innovation in Cornwall

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

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.

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.

How housing associations are vital in supporting lifelong learning

NHF Chair Maggie Galliers shares the importance of lifelong learning and how housing associations can play a bigger role in this.

Help us develop a data model for Awaab’s Law

A new data model is under development to help housing associations prepare for Awaab’s Law – and it needs your help to test it.

Commitment to Refer

Sign up to show your organisation’s commitment to ending homelessness.

Our offer for housing association board members

How the NHF can support housing association boards to deliver for their organisations and protect the sector’s reputation.

VAT Grouping – Call for Evidence

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

NHF partners

Get special rates or services from our range of Preferred and Sector Suppliers.

Tyne Housing

Read a case study exploring how Tyne Housing are providing supported housing for adults discharged from mental health services in the north east of England.

Themed weeks of action

Homes at the Heart weeks of action Homes at the Heart weeks of action Themed weeks of action Campaign ... also good for residents’ health and finances Partnership working to deliver greener homes 21 September

Internal and external auditor list

To help housing associations select the right internal and external auditors and ensure that the tender process is heathy and competitive, we've compiled a list of the auditors used in the sector.

Introducing extra governance support for smaller housing associations

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

NHF response to today's social housing announcements

The government’s announcements today put in place the building blocks needed to deliver a decade of social housing renewal.

Ending rough sleeping for good – what does the 2022 Rough Sleeping Strategy mean for housing associations?

On 3 September 2022, the government published its cross-departmental Rough Sleeping Strategy, 'Ending Rough Sleeping for Good'. This briefing lays out its key announcements and what they mean for housing associations.

Governance

Helping housing associations to establish an effective governance framework.

Consumer regulation - Insights and learning from regulatory inspections

Following the introduction of the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH)’s new regulatory approach ushered in by the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, the RSH has begun its planned programme of inspections to proactively seek evidence that a landlord is delivering the outcomes in the new consumer standards.

How home contents insurance can protect hardship funds and support tenants

Home contents insurance can work alongside hardship funds to give better protection for both tenants and landlords.

Sustainability and Quality of Homes Group

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

Cost of living crisis or destitution?

Angela Lockwood, Chief Executive at North Star Housing, discusses what the cost of living crisis has meant in reality for families in their communities. 

What speaking to recently homeless families made me realise about allocating homes

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

The West Yorkshire mayoral election is a golden opportunity to place housing at the heart of the debate

Over the coming months, my colleagues and I will be engaging with prospective candidates and all political parties as the countdown to polling day gathers pace.

Reflecting diversity, enhancing community: the EDI journey at Manningham Housing Association

Hear from Manningham Chief Executive, Lee Bloomfield about their work on EDI and the numerous benefits it's brought to their organisation.

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.

Comprehensive Spending Review 2020 submission

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

Coastline

In this case study, Coastline tell us how their supported housing and move-on housing help people experiencing rough sleeping find and keep a permanent home.

Housing associations helping to end homelessness

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

A winter like no other – how we’re limiting the spread of coronavirus across our services

How we’re limiting the spread of coronavirus across our supported housing and care services.

How not to be having the same conversations on race in 10 years’ time

There were so many interesting and important sessions at the National Housing Summit last week, but one that has particularly stayed with me was ‘Rethinking the sector’s approach to racial equality’.

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. 

Why we still need Pride

For me, Pride represents people who are typically under-represented in different aspects of society and it stands-up for those who are all too often treated unfairly.

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.

How we can help residents around the country 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

Turning hope into homes – celebrating the history of social housing

NHF Chief Executive Kate Henderson reflects on 90 years of the sector coming together as one and how that unified voice is as important today as it ever has been.

What can housing associations do to support community cohesion?

Today we’re publishing a summary of our members’ experiences of events in 2025 that unsettled the sense of cohesion and togetherness in some communities.

Our engagement with the new rough sleeping taskforce

We’ve written to Dame Louise Casey to outline how we can end homelessness for all.

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.

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. 

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.

HCLG Select Committee report supports NHF calls for building 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.

Lessons learned from the Rough Sleeper Accommodation Programme roundtables

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

Making the case for a retrofit revolution – our recent political engagement

The Prime Minister has responded to our call for the government to draw up a coronavirus recovery plan that prioritised investment in green projects and green infrastructure.

Kerslake Commission progress report published

The report assesses the impact of recent announcements and events on efforts to end rough sleeping.

Independent panel on quality

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

Rural Housing Week

Rural Housing Week 2025 took place at a significant moment for the sector in the wake of several important housing announcements. 

NHF response to BEIS consultation on review of net zero policies

Response from the National Housing Federation to the BEIS call for evidence on the review of net zero.

Removing the invisibility of adult social care

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

Is the government on track to meet its manifesto commitment to end rough sleeping by 2024?

The NHF submitted a response to the APPG for Ending Homelessness’ (APPGEH) inquiry into the government’s progress towards its welcome manifesto commitment to ‘end the blight of rough sleeping by the end of the next Parliament’.

Research report: where are housing associations on the path to net zero?

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

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We’re working with our members, through national groups and networks, to drive a shift in culture in delivering inclusive workplaces.

Local rural communities show how to deliver affordable homes

Local communities are setting up community land trusts to acquire land and develop housing schemes that really meet local needs and fit in with the local environment.

Implementing a new Customer Communications Group at LiveWest

As early adopters and Together with Tenants ambassadors, LiveWest has set up a new Customer Communications Group to ensure all customer-facing communications are relevant, engaging, accessible and easy to read.

Regulatory expectation in relation to returns

Nathan Mallows, Chair of the NHF Finance Policy Advisory Group, and Director of Finance, People and Change at Coastline Housing, reflects on his experience of regulatory expectation in relation to returns over the last 22 years.

Pensions

Helping housing associations to provide better pensions to their staff and to manage legacy pension issues.

The BOOST Leadership Programme

The BOOST Leadership Programme was developed in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) to challenge and address the under-representation of ethnically diverse colleagues at leadership level in the housing sector and remove the barriers these employees face when advancing into senior roles.

Chairs' Challenge: A vision for change

The Chairs’ Challenge is a public commitment for housing associations to take boards on a journey to understand how diverse and inclusive they are now, and then develop a vision for the future.

How Greater Manchester Housing Providers are getting ready for a post-pandemic world

Yvonne Castle, Chief Executive of Johnnie Johnson Housing, explores why housing is at the heart of coronavirus recovery plans across Greater Manchester. 

Supporting our members to deliver their social purpose

Find out how the NHF will be supporting our members to deliver their social purpose through our Business strategy 2022-2025.

Housing associations’ commitment to preventing homelessness through the Commitment to Refer

Housing homeless and vulnerable people has always been a key part of what we do as a sector.

Our vision for diversity, equality and inclusion

Our vision is to foster a culture of trust and openness where all staff can flourish and their unique experiences and perspectives are valued by everyone at the NHF.

How the NHF is developing its new business strategy

NHF Director of Finance and Business Services, Irfan Umarji, outlines his role in helping to produce our new five-year business strategy. He also explains how members can get involved by providing the feedback and insight that will help shape it.

Reflect on our sector’s journey with our latest Impact Report

Simon Nunn, NHF Director of Member Services, looks back on how far we have come as a sector and what challenges the future may hold as the NHF continues work on its next business strategy.

Raising funds during lockdown

Raising funds during lockdown Phil ... Day, Group Finance Director at The Guinness Partnership, writes about his experiences of approaching

Why we must speak out now to put #HomesAtTheHeart of the nation’s 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.

How should housing associations prepare for the general election?

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

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.

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.

NHF response to Spending Review 2025

This is a transformational package for social housing and will deliver the right conditions for a decade of renewal and growth.

The Social Housing Green Paper – our response

We’ve published our response, on behalf of the sector, along with a seven-point summary of our key recommendations.
 

Supported and older persons' housing

Supported housing exists to ensure everyone in our communities can live their best life, whatever their circumstances, ideally within their own home.

Our members

Find out if your housing association is a member of the National Housing Federation.

Climate and sustainability

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

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.

PIB Insurance Brokers

Offering a range of insurance and risk solutions to meet the needs of housing associations and their tenants.

Three quarters of housing associations already on journey to net zero

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

Views from our advisory group

Members of the Finance Policy Advisory Group provide the latest updates, insights and thoughts on key finance topics.

New recommendations on the quality and regulation of social housing

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

Cost of living support announced

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

Regulator of Social Housing report published on damp and mould

The Regulator of Social Housing report sets out how social landlords are approaching the tackling of damp and mould in their tenants’ homes and highlights features of the strongest and weakest approaches so landlords can learn lessons from others in the sector.

Members guiding our work on quality and trust

The Better Social Housing Review (BSHR) action plan has been developed by staff at the NHF and CIH in close collaboration with our members.

PIB Insurance Brokers

Offering a range of insurance and risk solutions to meet the needs of housing associations and their tenants.

NHF submits evidence to Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry into decarbonising home heating

In March 2024, the Public Accounts Committee published a call for evidence for an inquiry into decarbonising home heating. Our response emphasised the key role housing associations will play in reaching net zero, as well as the work they are already doing with local authorities.

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.

Thrive – HomePlan

HomePlan is an annual visit with a resident in their home using an inventory style report. These visits are a way of strengthening our relationship with residents, while providing the opportunity to assess the condition of the home, recommend repairs before they become urgent, and look at possible improvements to the quality of the home.

Further considerations for housing associations on the Building Safety Levy

RSM look at what the latest proposals under the Building Safety Levy might mean for housing associations.

How are rural housing associations making a long-term commitment to their communities?

Today marks the start of Rural Housing Week, our annual campaign that celebrates the vital work that housing associations do in rural areas.

Sign up to SHARP and support anti-racism in social housing

To mark Black History Month, Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of NHF and Social Housing Anti-Racism Pledge ambassador explains the importance of housing associations adopting an anti-racist stance.

Becoming confident in disability inclusion

For #PurpleTuesday2023, Hugo Drummond, Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at Eastlight Community Homes talks about their work to make disability inclusion an urgent priority.

The new government’s approach to tackling homelessness must reflect the diversity of England’s communities

By empowering communities to prioritise inclusion and tackle social problems together, we can ensure no one is homeless or left behind. 

Black History Month interview with Cym D’Souza, Chief Executive of Arawak Walton Housing Association

In this BHM interview, we catch up with Cym D’Souza, Chief Executive of Arawak Walton Housing Association and Chair of BMENational.

HR, legal and health and safety support for smaller housing associations

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

Why I’ve joined the Strategic Reference Group on Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse

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

What will 2022 look like for social housing?

Our mission at the NHF is to understand and anticipate the critical issues affecting the social housing sector - here are some of the key issues on our radar.

What will 2022 hold for our decarbonisation work?

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

Celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month

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

Why we stand with refugees this Refugee Week

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

Could furnished tenancies help tackle the cost of living crisis?

Claire Donovan, Head of Policy, Research and Campaigns at End Furniture Poverty explores what role furnished tenancies in social housing could play in helping to protect people from the cost of living crisis. 

Who should be allocated social housing?

Neil Morland, Managing Director of Neil Morland & Co Housing Consultants, explores the allocations process and role that housing associations play in it. 

Putting Together with Tenants into practice during the coronavirus crisis

The coronavirus crisis has made a great many things harder (or even impossible), but if there’s one thing I’ve learned from the years working with our customers it’s that every challenge is also an opportunity.

How can housing associations create more inclusive workplaces and communities?

Equality, diversity and inclusion in our sector won’t be achieved by just a campaign or an initiative, it requires each of us to make fundamental and lasting changes.

Catalyst / Cultural integration, engagement and wellbeing

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

As board members, your leadership will help our sector – and our country – thrive

We can’t claim to hold all the answers, but we do have an important role to play in building a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable economy and society.

What 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.

More than homes: together we can raise £1 million for the Trussell Trust

Together, we can raise £1m for the Trussell Trust, writes Paul Dolan.

A standard stock condition survey for all social housing landlords

We are pleased to be working with RICS to develop a standardised stock condition survey, to support a sector-wide approach to collecting information about the standard of social homes.

Empowering residents through community involvement with ForHousing

In this blog, Toria Buzza, Head of Communities and Tenant Involvement at ForHousing, reflects on their resident engagement work since adopting the Together with Tenants Charter.

Why the outlook for building a new generation of social and affordable homes is looking brighter

With the first grants from the Social and Affordable Homes Programme due next month, NHF Head of Member Relations Jess Mullins explains why our own member supply survey is so important.

NHF publishes new report on ‘making every contact count’ with residents

New NHF report shows how social landlords are making the most of every engagement with their residents to drive positive change to the condition of their homes, services and health and wellbeing.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Secretary of State for Housing, Robert Jenrick MP, addresses the National Housing Summit 2021

Jenrick lays out the government’s key housing priorities and takes questions from across the housing sector

What does the Levelling Up White Paper mean for housing associations?

The Levelling Up White Paper has now been published, find out what it means for housing associations.

Social housing recognised in new Social Care White Paper

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

Building opportunity: how social housing can support skills, talent and workforce development

This report was produced by the Learning and Work Institute and the Institute for Employment, with support from the National Housing Federation, Communities That Work, and the National Federation of ALMOs.

Our open letter to the Secretary of State of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Read practical next steps, outlined by our coalition of social housing providers and practitioners, to rebuild the capacity and confidence of the social housing sector.

Changes to the scope of Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings

A rebasing of thresholds in relation to the Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings could bring more registered providers within its scope with effect from 1 April 2023.

Meet the board member: Althea Efunshile

Althea, chair of the board at MTVH, talks about leading complex organisations and the joy of bringing together a diverse board.

Voluntary income won’t plug the gaps, we need ringfenced funding to protect homelessness services

Chris Burgess, Head of Homelessness Services at Porchlight, explains what the future holds for their homelessness provision following Kent County Council's decision to decommission services across the county. 

What did the 2022 party conferences tell us about where housing sits on the political agenda?

The NHF Public Affairs team had a busy and productive schedule at the Labour and Conservative Party conferences this year. Here are my observations and what I think it means for the housing sector.

Here’s what we need from the next Prime Minister to deliver decarbonisation in social housing

Both Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak have committed to reaching net zero by 2050 but are yet to provide further detail on these commitments.

This Refugee Week we can all play our part and help those arriving in our communities to heal

Part of the trauma of a refugee experience is the loss of your home; part of the healing, therefore, must be securing a safe home in order to build a new life.

emh – our experience with MMC and Building Better

Time Wade, Development Director of emh, talks to us about MMC, Building Better, and their challenges and plans for the future.

Will your organisation become a Together with Tenants adopter?

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

The importance of diverse and representative boards at Ongo Homes

Karen Cowan, Head of Governance & Corporate at Ongo Homes reviews the importance of diverse and representative boards in social housing.

Aster Group/LGBTQ+ network

"Ultimately, we hope to provide a working environment in which all employees – and communities – feel truly represented and heard."

VAT grouping consultation – no changes expected following sector response

HM Treasury have decided not to consult further on possible changes to UK VAT grouping rules following responses to the recent call for evidence.

Harry’s Pledge – the commitment to carers one year on

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

Knowing our Homes: Where are we now?

In this blog, Kevin Garvey explains what progress has been made on the programme over the past year, and what’s next.

Our new decarbonisation project is already making an impact

We have been hard at work establishing the infrastructure for the project and want to update you on our work so far.

Housing associations can underpin the next government’s warm homes ambitions

Ahead of July’s general election we’re calling on all political parties to commit to a renewed and bolstered Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.

Supporting sustainable tenancies and improving financial resilience for tenants

Research by Fair4All Finance found that social housing tenants were more likely to be at risk of using illegal moneylenders than any other housing tenure. Their Community Engagement Manager, Temi Odesanya, looks at how we can support the financial wellbeing of tenants.

How housing associations can continue their work to become actively anti-racist

Khalid Mair introduces the Social Housing Anti-Racism Pledge which is due to be launched in early 2022.

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

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.

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.

Together with Tenants: amplifying resident voice and influence at MSV

In this blog, Charlie Norman, Group Chief Executive at MSV, explains how MSV have been working to amplify resident voice and influence in their decision making.

Tackling social housing stigma – changing hearts and minds forever

In this blog, Nic Bliss, Campaign Director at Stop Social Housing Stigma, explains why the campaign began and how social landlords can work with residents to tackle social housing stigma and change hearts and minds forever.

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.

We need a step-change in our approach to regeneration in this country

If the government is serious about repairing the fabric of Britain, then we need its housing strategy to include bold ambitions on regeneration.

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 certainty in housing investment is vital as we emerge from the coronavirus crisis

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.

How are rural housing associations making a long-term commitment to their communities?

Rural Housing Week 2019, which runs from 1-5 July, is our annual celebration of housing associations’ vital role in rural communities.

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.

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).

Why supported housing is vital to solving the NHS’ housing problem

In this blog, Harvey Crawford, Policy Manager at Rethink Mental Illness, reflects on the NHF’s recent report on hospital discharges and the need for more high-quality supported housing for those living with severe mental ill health. 

How Access Training transforms skills, careers and communities

Discover how Access Training addresses employment barriers for their local residents, giving them the skills and confidence to secure meaningful jobs.

Research on income collection: Housing association changes in response to Universal Credit

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

Code of Governance: final consultation

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

Heat networks regulation: consultation on fair pricing protections

Ofgem are consulting on a new fair pricing framework for heat networks as part of a new regulatory regime for heat networks. 

Why we need to act now on rural affordable housing

New research confirms that the rural housing crisis is being driven by a combination of high land costs, under-resourced planning systems, funding gaps, and crucially, inconsistent community engagement.

Young residents are not just the future of social housing, they’re an integral part of the present

Peer Researcher, Kara Davies, explains how young residents can be involved in decision-making and influence strategies within the housing sector.

Standing firm in power and pride: reflecting on BME National’s past, present and future

Black History Month reminds us that progress has always been hard-won by people who stood firm when it was difficult to do so. This year, we honour that legacy not only with words but with measurable action.

Social housing and the rising challenge in mental health

Drawing on recent surveys and national datasets, this blog explores the drivers behind rising mental health needs, and what this means for social housing providers and their staff.

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.

Clarifying consent for the Commitment to Refer

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

Housing Bonds Alliance (HBA)

Housing Bonds Alliance provides innovative surety market solutions.

Better Social Housing Review

An independent panel looked into issues of poor quality in social housing and developed actionable recommendations for social housing providers.

Roadmap to equality: an inclusive future

Equality, diversity and inclusion are integral to housing associations’ work and to excellent governance. We’ve published a new set of resources to help our members take a lead on EDI work and deliver an inclusive future.

COP26: a briefing for housing associations

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

Maximising the impact of Section 106

Section 106 is key to providing affordable homes, but the system isn’t always working as it should. Our new survey shows that earlier collaboration, better quality standards and clearer agreements can help deliver more reliable, well‑designed homes.

During a summer of instability, what progress has social housing made decarbonisation and net zero?

In amongst sudden and dramatic developments in Westminster and with COP27 underway in Egypt, we’ve continued our work with the sector and the government on decarbonising homes.

Addressing inequality is the right thing to do – the impact of collecting equality, diversity and inclusion data

Victor da Cunha, Chief Executive of Curo reflects on the positive impact of the EDI data tool when it comes to addressing inequality in social housing. 

Net zero: what do the Party Manifestos mean for social housing decarbonisation?

Now we have all the election manifestos, we have our first preview into what the next five years could look like under a new government regarding social housing decarbonisation.

This Earth Day, we examine the latest developments in climate policy and what it means for social housing

Policy Officer Rory Hughes summarises the recent developments for the UK and for housing associations in the field of sustainability and decarbonisation.

Creating safe spaces for the young and homeless in the LGBTQ+ community

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

Looking at the retrofit projects underway thanks to the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund

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

Four things I learnt at the National Housing Summit 2022

Policy Assistant Ewan Fulford reflects on key lessons from the National Housing Summit 2022.

English Housing Survey highlights warm homes challenge

This month, MHCLG published the Energy Report from the most recent English Housing Survey (EHS) of 2023 and gives us a detailed insight into the condition of the nation’s homes and our progress on fuel poverty and decarbonisation.

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.

The real ‘social housing waiting list’ is 500,000 more than official figures

The findings are published in their annual People in Housing Need report, the most comprehensive report to date on the state of the nation’s housing crisis.

A long-term plan for housing

The NHF has been calling for a long-term plan for housing that will end the housing crisis for good. We launched our campaign in June 2023, with the report, 'Why we need a long-term plan for housing'. Since then we've been campaigning alongside our members and housing bodies. 

Together with Tenants - updates and reflections

1. Progress with early adopters 2. Input from the Tenant Advisory Panel and Member Steering Group ... will come from housing associations working in partnership with residents to embed a culture across the

Autumn Budget and Spending Review submission 2024

Discover our recommendations, ahead of the Autumn Budget and Spending Review, for ensuring housing associations increase affordable house building, increase investment in existing homes and support public services to rebuild.

Driving resident engagement at Salix Homes

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

Driving racial equality at South Yorkshire Housing Association

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

What did we learn from Climate and Sustainability in Housing 2022?

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

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.

What the English Housing Survey tells us about how energy-efficient our homes are

Recently released results reveal that England has passed a significant milestone in energy efficiency – and housing associations are at the forefront of this effort.

Member benefits

NHF members have access to exclusive benefits, products and services that enable their businesses to thrive.

Phoenix Software

NHF members receive up to 60% off products and services that enable digital transformation in the workplace.

Phoenix Software

NHF members receive up to 60% off products and services that enable digital transformation in the workplace.

NHF pay data

We voluntarily share our gender and ethnicity pay data in our efforts to be a fair, inclusive and transparent organisation.

General election campaign impact

Reflect on the political engagement initiatives by the National Housing Federation (NHF) and its members to influence the general election.

Prima Group – The Big Door Knock

After the covid pandemic, several heart-breaking stories in the media and with the ongoing cost of living crisis, it was clear to us that we needed to change the way we engaged with residents. In March 2023, we started the ‘Big Door Knock’.

The Better Social Housing Review

Report and recommedations The Better Social Housing Review was set up in June 2022 by The National ... commissioning work, which focused on expanding partnerships with charitable/non-profit organisations. Tom

Meet the Tenant Advisory Panel

Meet the Tenant Advisory Panel.

Building Information Modelling (BIM): what is it and how can it help housing associations?

A free toolkit and a business case to support housing associations looking to digitise their development and asset information.

Low-cost loans for social housing providers

Learn about the NHF's response to the recent low-cost loans for social housing providers announced by the government at the latest Spending Review.

Making tenants’ voices heard at Bernicia

As early adopters of Together with Tenants, Bernicia has used the initiative to assess and improve resident engagement practices. The Charter has been a guide in collecting valuable feedback, enhancing engagement, and fostering positive change. 

How the G15 used data collection to understand its workforce and better represent communities in London

Natalie Quilter, former Diversity and Inclusion Specialist at the G15, explains why representation leads to better outcomes for residents ahead of our 2026 EDI data tool.

Social housing renewal: first steps for the new government

Dive into the Social renewal plan to discover the framework needed to meet the goals of a wider long-term plan for housing.

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.

Knowing our Homes

A programme of work developed to establish a shared, standardised approach for gathering and using information about the condition of social homes and about the residents who live in them.

2024 election manifestos: party pledges on housing

Dive into the NHF's analysis of the 2024 general election manifestos. Learn about party commitments to solving the housing crisis, from increasing social home delivery to planning Learn about party pledges on social homes, planning reforms, decarbonisation, and building safety.

Monitoring workforce diversity: what to ask and how to use the data you collect

We have launched a resource to help you collect EDI data and use it to drive inclusion.

Code of conduct 2022

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