Follow #HousingCommunitySummit to keep up with the most exciting event of the year 9-10 September.
Helping residents apply for Pension Credit this winter. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are running a Week of Action to drive up Pension Credit take up, to make sure everyone who is eligible applies this winter.
National Planning Policy Framework consultation. The government has now released its proposed changes to the NPPF. Find out more information and access our full policy briefing.
NHF response to UK riots. We offer our solidarity and support to everyone affected by the riots and our members will continue to work closely with the police and local authorities to ensure that residents and staff across the country are protected from violence.
Government announces plan for a long-term housing strategy. Find out more about what Angela Rayner MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, announced in her speech to the House of Commons about the government's long-term housing strategy.
What does the new Parliament mean for housing? On Thursday, we saw 335 successful candidates become MPs for the first time. Eliza Smith, Public Affairs Officer at the NHF, explains what this means for housing.
PIB Insurance Brokers. PIB Insurance Brokers are a leading insurance broker with access to risk management to meet the needs of housing associations and their tenants.
Audit and Risk Conference 2024. Manchester
Treasury in Housing 2024. London
The Housing Community Summit 2024. Liverpool
Quality Homes Conference and Exhibition 2024. Leicester
National Network for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Professionals, 9 October 2024. Online
Leaseholder and Tenant Service Charges Conference 2024. London
National Asset Management Network. Online
National Asset Management Network. Online
National Supported and Older Persons’ Housing Network . Online
National Supported and Older Persons’ Housing Network . Online
National Supported and Older Persons’ Housing Network . Online
Customer Experience and Housing Management Network. Online
Customer Experience and Housing Management Network. Online
National Development Network . TBC
National Development Network . Online
National Board Member Network - September 2024. TBC
National Board Members Network - December 2024. Online
Chairs Network - November 2024. Online
New Board Member Induction Briefing - October 2024. Online
Housing Finance Conference and Exhibition 2025. Liverpool
West Midlands leaders forum - December 2024. Manchester
National Smaller Housing Associations' Conference 2024. Online
North West Leaders Forum - November 2024. Manchester
East of England Leaders Forum - September 2024. Cambridge
Communications and Influencing Network - November 2024. Online
Customer Experience and Resident Engagement Conference 2025. London
Board Leadership Conference and Exhibition 2025. London
National CEO Network on Equality, Diversity & Inclusion. Online
National CEO Network on Equality, Diversity & Incl. Online
National CEO Network on Equality, Diversity & Incl. Online
Comms & Influencing in Housing Conference & Exhibition 2025. London
Affordable Home Ownership 2025. London
National Governance Network . Online
National Governance Network . Online
Housing Governance Conference and Exhibition 2025. London
EDI in Housing 2025 . London
South West Leaders Forum. Taunton
Consumer regulation - Insights and learning from regulatory inspections. Online
Addressing the lack of ethnic diversity at leadership level. Online
Chairs Dinner – Why we need a long-term plan for housing. Birmingham
Housing Ombudsman call for evidence on ‘repairing trust’ in housing maintenance. The Housing Ombudsman issued a call for evidence to inform its next Spotlight report, titled ‘Repairing Trust’, which will explore common issues in housing maintenance.
Helping residents apply for Pension Credit this winter. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are running a Week of Action to drive up Pension Credit take up, to make sure everyone who is eligible applies this winter.
Net zero under a new government. During this webinar we hear from a range of speakers about the future of net zero under the new government and the implications for housing associations.
What is the impact of a 53-week year on housing associations and their residents? In this blog, Sarah Rogers, Head of Customer Accounts at Curo, explains what the 53 week rent year is, and what impact it has on housing associations and their residents.
Implementing the Consumer Standards in Supported Housing. Insights for supported housing providers to help ensure you are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of social housing consumer regulation.
Midlands Leaders Forum - October 2024. Online
National Finance Network. A forum for finance personnel across the sector to hear about the NHF's latest policy work and political engagement, to share insights and practice, and to connect with sector colleagues.
Government announces plan for a long-term housing strategy. Find out more about what Angela Rayner MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, announced in her speech to the House of Commons about the government's long-term housing strategy.
Government launches consultation on reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework. The government has now released its proposed changes to the NPPF. The consultation will run until 24 September.
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.
We ask that the government bring forward the revised Decent Homes Standard as soon as possible . The new government is already showing it intends to tackle the housing crisis. We even had Sir Keir Starmer commit to reviewing the Decent Homes Standard in his first PMQs. This is vitally important for housing associations.
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.
Smart meters can save money for both social residents and landlords. Paying energy bills is a struggle for millions of people in the UK but knowing how much everything costs gives us greater control and oversight of our energy costs. One easy way to do this is to use a smart meter.
Housing associations and heat network regulation. Heat networks supply thousands of homes across the UK with heat and hot water. They are more common in social housing than other tenures and, as they will be critical to our mission to decarbonise home heating, new regulations are being developed to improve and expand their use.
The Better Social Housing Review – exploring recommendation 5: ensuring tenants have a voice. Watch our webinar focusing on the work of members who were actively delivering on recommendation 5 of the Better Social Housing Review, ensuring tenants had a voice and influence at every level of decision-making.
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.
What does the new Parliament mean for housing? On Thursday, we saw 335 successful candidates become MPs for the first time. Eliza Smith, Public Affairs Officer at the NHF, explains what this means for housing.
How board members in the housing sector can support each other and share knowledge. It's more important than ever that people have an opportunity and safe space to share learning and develop the knowledge needed to be an effective board member.
Why more social homes are crucial for people moving on from supported housing. In this blog, Claire Wise, Assistant Director of Care & Support Strategy at MTVH, explains the positive difference safe, secure move-on housing makes to people leaving supported accommodation.
Better Social Housing Review: Knowing our Homes. This Better Social Housing Review webinar looked at our new project 'Make Every Contact Count'. Many housing associations are already using this approach to check on homes and the wellbeing of residents.
Finding a home for people experiencing rough sleeping at 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.
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.
Navigating new regulations: insights from the NHF Tenant Advisory Panel. During this webinar, we heard from our Tenant Advisory Panel about the revision of the Together with Tenant’s Charter, and what recent changes to the consumer regime means for residents.
Our key asks for the Supported Housing Act post-election. Briefing on what we're asking the new government to include in their consultation on the Act.
Why rural communities need a long-term plan for housing. Taking place during Rural Housing Week 2024, this webinar explored how the housing crisis impacts rural areas - from the local economy to the people who live and work there.
The Better Social Housing Review recommendations.
Why we need a long-term plan to fix the crisis in rural housing. We can only hope to end the housing crisis through a system-wide approach which takes into account all areas, all tenures, and all parts of our housing system.
Rural Life Monitor 2024. The housing crisis is often discussed in terms of how many new homes are needed in total but less often in terms of how this looks in different parts of the country.
Supported and older person’s housing development survey: Our key findings. We surveyed our members at the end of 2023 to understand their plans for developing and regenerating supported or older person’s homes, and some of the key barriers they face.
Shared Ownership Council launches consultation on new Code of Good Practice. The Shared Ownership Council's draft Code of Good Practice has now been launched for consultation. It aims to improve consumer experience of shared ownership.
Better Social Housing Review – putting change into action. This webinar was recorded on 18 June 2024.
Advancing equality and inclusion - a spotlight on our progress. Nick Crofts reflects on WCHG's journey with the Chairs' Challenge.
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.
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.
Rural Housing Week 2024. Taking place 1-5 July, this year's campaign focussed on why rural communities need the new government to commit to a long-term plan for housing.
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.
Why we updated the Together with Tenants Charter. In this blog, NHF Policy Officer, Ewan Fulford explains why we updated the together with Tenants Charter with a new commitment on EDI, centred around the experiences of underrepresented and marginalised groups.
What can we learn from the Make Every Contact Count approach? In this blog, Annie Owens tells us about a new approach to resident engagement.
Net zero: what are the opportunities for social housing? Consultancy firm and NHF partner Lane Clark & Peacock (LCP) explain how the road to net zero presents opportunities for social housing to support the transition to a greener future and help residents afford energy bills.
HMRC Compliance Activity. HMRC kicked off a compliance campaign at the end of last year and in recent weeks have rolled it out more widely to the housing association population. Find out what is new and what you should do next.
NHF response to Labour proposal for new Compulsory Purchase Orders powers and funding for planning. Enabling local councils to buy cheaper land through Compulsory Purchase Orders without paying 'hope value' will allow them to build more of the desperately needed affordable homes the country needs, in the right places for the people who need it most.
An update from LCP on Defined Contribution (DC) pensions.
Support your general election activity with data. Support your general election campaign and explore essential housing data resources in our latest blog by our Head of Research and Analysis.
Preparing for Rural Housing Week 2024. Your opportunity to raise awareness of some of the challenges rural communities face, how affordable housing helps, and how, with the right policy interventions, housing associations could be delivering more.
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.
What are the dos and don'ts of the campaign period? Paul Smith tells us his top tips for political engagement during the pre-election period.
Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements consultation announced. The government has launched a consultation on a new access to information scheme for social housing residents.
Update to affordability guidance for shared ownership. Homes England has announced an update to their affordability guidance on shared ownership which will apply to any NHF member who currently offers shared ownership or intends to do so in the future.
State of MMC delivery in social housing report. Explore the latest on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) in social housing.
Launch of Fire Safety Reinsurance Facility by Association of British Insurers . The Facility aims to improve access to insurance for buildings with combustible cladding and other fire safety issues.
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.
New board member induction (May 2024). If you’ve recently become a board member in the social housing sector, this webinar summarises the role and what you need to know to fulfil your role.
Orlo. Orlo is a social media management and customer service platform designed specifically for the UK public sector to increase engagement, improve experience, and build trust.
Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave 3. Draft guidance has been released for SHDF Wave 3 and potential applicants are strongly encouraged to start preparing and building partnerships now.
Change in action: involving residents in decision making with Ongo Community Voice. In this new case study, Ongo tell us why tenant involvement is at their heart and how they've worked to embed it as one of their corporate objectives.
NHF response to the The Finances and Sustainability of the Social Housing Sector report. Read Kate Henderson's response to The finances and sustainability of the social housing sector report.
Abri – See Something, Say Something. To create more opportunities for speaking up when something’s not right, we’ve introduced internal campaign and reporting tool known as ‘See Something, Say Something’, to encourage colleagues to raise concerns before they get worse.
We need a #PlanForHousing - Our open letter to the next Prime Minister. Read our urgent open letter to the new Prime Minister asking them for a long-term plan to end child homelessness.
How are barriers to retrofitting heritage homes being addressed? An estimated 25% of UK homes have heritage features that may restrict retrofit. This has serious implications for decarbonisation - essential if we’re to achieve the national net zero target.
Economic Impact. Our updated Local Economic Impact Calculator shows housing associations’ contribution to the productivity of local areas.
Meet the new Chair and Vice Chair of the NHF’s Smaller Housing Association Network. We are delighted to welcome Helena Evans as our new Chair and Rebecca Clarke as our new Vice Chair.
Alertacall. Alertacall uses technology to enhance two-way engagement and provide better connection between customers and their landlord.
Meeting the need for supported housing. During this webinar presents new research into why meeting the need for supported housing is an important goal to commit to in this election year, as well as how to secure commitment to that goal.
What might it take to deliver the supported housing that England needs? Bekah Ryder, Research and Insights Manager at Altair Ltd., explains what new research commissioned by the NHF on future supported housing need and cost means for the sector and why we need a long-term plan for housing.
National Board Member Network April 2024. Watch our board member network for strategic discussions and valuable insights.
How much supported housing will we need by 2040? New research commissioned by the NHF and completed by Altair Ltd., shows that we’re not on track to provide a supported home to everyone who needs one by 2040.
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.
Change in action: Co-creating a new resident governance structure with Southern Housing. In our latest case study looking at how housing associations are responding to the Better Social Housing Review, Southern Housing tell us about how they co-created a new resident governance structure.
Fire safety remediation survey - Q&A with DLUHC and the Regulator of Social Housing. Get insights from the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and officials at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities (DLUHC) on the latest fire safety remediation survey results.
Xledger . Xledger is a global leading cloud finance solution provider. Working with over 10,000 organisations in over 60 countries, Xledger equips finance teams to help transform their business now and into the future.
ZapCarbon. ZapCarbon helps housing providers to achieve better living conditions, through its HealthyHomes programme that focuses on stopping damp and mould in tenanted housing.
Utility Aid. Utility Aid is the UK's leading energy broker within the third and fourth sectors.
SHIFT Environment: providing environmental reporting services, and consultancy for housing associations. Providing environmental reporting services, specialising in consultancy for housing associations.
Recite Me . Recite Me provide an accessibility toolbar that provides every online user with the tools they need to create an inclusive online experience and access housing information barrier-free.
Plentific. A Software as a Service (SaaS) platform developed to support housing associations and residents to facilitate real-time property operations.
PIB Insurance Brokers. PIB Insurance Brokers are a leading insurance broker with access to risk management to meet the needs of housing associations and their tenants.
Phoenix Software. NHF members receive up to 60% off products and services that enable digital transformation in the workplace.
PfH. PfH is recognised for the value it helps its members to create from their supply chains.
Pennington Manches Cooper: providing legal advice to clients across the sector. Penningtons Manches Cooper is recognised as a top class provider of legal advice to the social housing sector.
My Home Contents Insurance. Affordable and flexible scheme designed to protect your tenants.
Mobysoft: providing time and cost saving solutions to the sector. Harnessing the transformative potential of data, Mobysoft employs complex algorithms to predict individual behaviour, prioritising human outcomes in all our services.
Integrator Housing Solutions: cloud based energy efficiency and asset management software solutions. Offering cloud based solutions to enable housing associations to measure and manage their data on their path to net zero in an affordable way.
The Housing Bond Company (HBC). Housing Bonds Alliance provides innovative surety market solutions.
HouseMark. HouseMark helps you benchmark housing management and maintenance.
Hilti: making construction work simpler, faster and safer. Suppling innovative products, systems and services that provide construction professionals with innovative solutions and superior added value.
Director’s and officer’s insurance tailored for housing associations. We’ve been working with PIB Insurance Brokers (PIB) to negotiate an alternative director’s and officer’s (D&O) insurance offer at preferential rates for all members of the NHF.
Chirpy Heat. Chirpy Heat is the UK’s leading supplier of independent heat network support and guidance to housing providers. Their aim is to provide simply better heat networks for housing providers, their customers and our net zero future.
Buzzacott.
Buzzacott is an accountancy firm with over 100 years of experience supporting not for profit organisations, including housing providers, with their financial and regulatory needs.
Biscon Planning. An independent market leader in the provision of business continuity planning and enterprise risk management strategies, aligned to give capable and deliverable corporate governance. Contact Biscon for a free health check of your current organisational resilience and preparedness.
B&Q. B&Q Decorating Cards are a quick, simple and effective way of providing tenants with a decorating allowance, giving them the freedom to improve their homes on their own terms.
Consultation on reforms to social housing allocations. We have submitted a full response to the government’s consultation on reforms to social housing allocations.
Bromford - Introducing the neighbourhood coaching model . Bromford tell us how their neighbourhood coaching model puts residents at the heart, and helps residents with rent arrears, anti-social behaviour and repairs.
Change in action: Putting residents first with Sanctuary. Sanctuary tell us about how they've put their residents first by introducing a tenants advisory panel.
The Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation. This briefing summarises proposals set out in the government’s The Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation
The road to net zero for smaller housing associations. The latest updates on the support and funding available for smaller housing associations to reduce their carbon emissions.
General election campaign launch. A webinar recording of the launch of the National Housing Federation’s general election campaign.
NHF joins call to extend the move-on period for newly granted refugees. At the NHF, we’ve signed a joint letter with St Mungo’s and key housing, homelessness and refugee organisations to ask the government to extend this to 56 days, to prevent people becoming homeless after receiving their refugee status.
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.
How did emh work to meet the Homes for Cathy Commitments? Read more about how emh worked to meet the Homes for Cathy commitments and helped tackle homelessness for residents of social housing.
Case studies.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: East Midlands. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from the East Midlands.
Housing associations should engage with LGPS funds in surplus. Tim Gilbert, Partner in LCP’s Social Housing practice, looks at the key considerations for housing associations with well-funded LGPS schemes and what steps can be taken now to better manage LGPS risks.
Social Housing Pension Scheme valuation 2023 – what might the changes be to future service contributions. Martin Robinson, Senior Consultant in LCP’s Social Housing practice, considers what the SHPS 2023 valuation results might mean for future service contributions and how it might lead to some tricky conversations with employees.
Could pensions legislation have a big impact on activity in the social housing sector? Helen Abbott from LCP’s Covenant practice, looks at how pensions legislation can impact housing association activities and what action providers should be taking.
Building Safety Levy. The National Housing Federation response to the building levy consultation update.
Temporary workers and non-compliant umbrella companies. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging social housing contractors to watch out for unscrupulous promoters of tax avoidance schemes.
`Tendering for a new external auditor. Tips from Progress Housing Group on re-tendering your external audit service.
Plan for Housing campaign. Look back at the 2024 general election digital toolkit created for National Housing Federation members.
NHF response to the Chancellor's Spring Budget 2024. Today, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt laid out his Spring Budget for 2024.
Affordable Homes Guarantee Scheme expansion. The Affordable Homes Guarantee Scheme (AHGS) expansion opened for applications last month.
National Minimum Wage and the social housing sector. RSM looks at HMRC’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) enforcement activity in the social housing sector and the risk areas that organisations should be aware of.
Tax and Feed-in-Tariffs. Charitable housing associations are now exposed to corporation tax on income received that relates to solar panels installed on their properties.
Exploring the challenges of regenerating sheltered homes for older people. At the NHF, we recently responded to an all-party parliamentary group inquiry on the regeneration of outdated sheltered housing.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: Yorkshire and Humber. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from the Yorkshire and Humber region.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: West Midlands. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from the West Midlands.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: North West England. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from North West England.
The economic impact of building social housing. Building 90,000 social homes could add over £50bn to the economy, according to new research.
Investing in social housing could add over £50bn to the economy. Building 90,000 social homes could add over £50bn to the economy, according to new research carried out by CEBR.
Housing Ombudsman introduces the Statutory Complaint Handling Code. In October 2023, the Housing Ombudsman Service consulted on their Complaint Handling Code, ushered in by the Social Housing Regulation Act.
Abbeyfield South Downs - Case Study. In 2018, Abbeyfield South Downs started work on an extra care scheme in Heathfield, East Sussex.
Mosscare St Vincent’s.
The Competence and Conduct Standard. In February 2024, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) launched a consultation on the Competence and Conduct Standard.
Consultation on the Competence and Conduct Standards. Hear from DLUHC about their consultation on the Direction to the Regulator for Social Housing on the Competence and Conduct Standards.
Knowing our Homes - Housing associations' current data collection practices. In September 2023, we ran a survey to identifying how social landlords are currently gathering and using data about the condition of their homes, and about their residents.
Strengthening planning policy for brownfield development. The government is consulting on mechanisms by which local planning authorities (LPAs) are encouraged to give ‘significant weight to the benefits of delivering as many homes as possible’ when deciding applications on brownfield land. We are keen to hear from members about their views on these changes.
Making the case for specialist homes for older people. The Older Person's Housing Group has published a resource to explain the need for specialist housing for older people, outline the barriers to development and make their asks of the government as we head towards a general election.
Government consults on reforms to social housing allocations. The government is currently consulting on plans to amend the rules around social housing allocations through their consultation on reforms to social housing allocations.
Change in action: Promoting digital engagement at Ongo. Ongo tell us how they've promoted digital engagement for residents through their Digital Tenants Group.
Rural exception sites could help us build more affordable homes for rural communities. A study has uncovered a striking under-use of Rural Exception Sites across England, crucial for alleviating the rural housing shortage.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: South West England. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from South West England.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: London. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from London.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: North East England. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from North East England.
Spring Budget 2024. Read our submission to HM Treasury ahead of the Spring Budget 2024
Grand Union Housing Group.
What are housing associations doing to tackle homelessness? Five years since the NHF began work on supporting housing associations to reduce homelessness, we decided to rerun our initial 2018 survey on homelessness services, to find out where the sector is now.
What have we learnt about the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act? The Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act became law on 29th August 2023. This new legislation aims to introduce new regulations to tackle any poor quality supported housing and protect residents.
The Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation Briefing for housing associations. A briefing on the latest Future Homes and Building consultation. To help shape our response, please send us your views by 20 February 2024.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Regional Round Tables: East of England. A roundtable discussing the regional equality, diversity and inclusion data from the East of England.
Change in action: Ensuring residents feel heard at The Riverside Group. At The Riverside Group (TRG), we've been working to make sure our residents feel heard and are engaged. To do this, we offered co-production training to our staff and residents through workshops.
Housing Association Finance guide. The NHF and CIPFA (Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy) have co-produced the Housing Association Finance guide covering key finance issues within the housing association sector with regular updates from key experts.
Why are we calling for change on the 53-week rent year? Many of our members have raised concerns about the Universal Credit calculation for residents with weekly tenancies in years where there are 53 weeks.
Awaab's Law. We have submitted a full response to the government’s consultation on Awaab’s Law.
Heat networks zoning: preparing for future regulation. With the new regulatory framework for heat networks due to come into force from 2024, we heard directly from the DESNZ about heat network zoning.
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.
Cost of living crisis: how are housing associations supporting residents? This webinar shares best practices for supporting residents struggling with the cost of living.
Our response to the Regulator of Social Housing’s consultation on proposed statutory guidance. The NHF has submitted a response to the Regulator of Social Housing on its consultation looking at how it intends to use its regulatory and enforcements powers, following changes brought in by the Social Housing Regulation Act.
NHF sends joint letter calling to protect homelessness services from decommissioning. The National Housing Federation has written a joint letter to the homelessness minister, Felicity Buchan, about the amount of homelessness accommodation spaces currently at risk of closure.
National Smallest Housing Association Network. This network for housing associations with fewer than 200 homes meets quarterly to network, share experiences and challenges, and hear key sector updates.
Health and the condition of homes. Sharing good practice from housing associations working to understand the health needs of their residents and linking this with work to improve the condition of their homes.
Your responsibilities for higher-risk buildings: Q&A with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Housing associations with existing higher-risk buildings will be finalising their preparation for the commencement of new regulatory responsibilities from April 2024.
Heat Network Transformation Programme provides funding to help improve district and communal heating systems. Funding available to improve district or communal heating systems and the development of new and existing low and zero-carbon heat networks.
Welfare and Universal Credit. Major changes to the benefits system have come into force in the last few years, including the roll out of Universal Credit.
Our political influencing.
Universal Credit. Universal Credit rolls many existing benefits into one payment. Below are some facts about the system.
Consultation on tenant rights and complaints - our response. The NHF's response to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC)'s consultation on the directions to the Regulator of Social Housing on tenant rights and complaints.
NHF response to Secretary of State's speech on housing and planning. The NHF has responded to the announcements made by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, in his speech on housing, planning and the National Planning Policy Framework.
£1.25bn announced for Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund alongside further funding for heat networks. The government has announced that it will release an additional £1.25bn funding for the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund. We have been calling for this so we welcome this announcement.
National Board Member Network - December 2023. This meeting covers updates on the NHF’s political engagement work and insight from our Leadership Team.
Fire safety remediation survey - Q&A with the Regulator. We arranged this webinar jointly with the LGA to provide all social landlords with an opportunity to ask questions to inform their response to this survey.
Update on cost sharing groups. The cost sharing exemption exists to give a VAT relief to organisations, that make exempt and / or non-business supplies. RSM provide an update on HMRC's position around cost sharing groups and what housing associations can expect.
Improving the quality of social homes. This update from the Regulator, NHF and CIH provides insights on how implementing the Better Social Housing Review recommendations could prepare you for the new regulation.
How diverse is England’s housing association workforce in 2023? Key findings. We shared our recommendations and next steps for change and delegates heard from organisations using their data to understand and improve the diversity of their leadership teams and the positive impact this has on their staff teams and the people they serve.
Design and build arrangements for VAT - maintaining integrity. RSM explore the potential pitfalls of design and build arrangements alongside recommendations for preserving their integrity and protecting VAT recovery.
VAT update on energy saving materials and fire remediation works. RSM provide an update on fire remediation works and energy saving materials following the Autumn Statement, as well outline our engagement and next steps with HMRC.
What can we expect from the SHPS valuation 2023 and what do we need to do? . Damian Bailey, Principal in LCP’s Social Housing practice, brings some welcome good news and sets out key actions for housing associations before the results are published in Autumn 2024.
Housing associations are at a pensions crossroads. Luke Hothersall, Partner in LCP’s Social Housing practice, considers the opportunities available to housing associations in relation to pensions – tackling both past problems and future opportunities.
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.
A year on from the Better Social Housing Review – what’s changing? The National Housing Federation (NHF) and Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) have jointly published an update on our work on the Better Social Housing Review, one year since the independent panel made seven recommendations for the social housing sector.
How can housing associations avoid large increases to insurance premiums? Howard Collins, Director Affinity and Associations at PIB Insurance Brokers, looks at why insurance premiums are rising and how housing associations can get the best result from their next renewal.
Update on the Economic Crime Levy and how it applies to housing associations. Although the sector has a relatively low risk of exposure to economic crime, many housing associations have concerns around how the Economic Crime Levy is impacting their organisation.
Regional breakdown of 2023 equality, diversity and inclusion data. How diverse is England’s housing association workforce? Regional breakdowns presenting the full data, key findings and areas for future focus for each region.
New homeless households outnumber new social homes by six to one. NHF analysis shows that for every new social home built in England last year (2022/23), six households were accepted as homeless.
Two in five older private renters struggle to afford food, heating or clothes. Older private renters struggle with stress and financial hardship as housing costs soar, according to new NHF research.
Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund wave 2.2 applications open until 19 January 2024. Wave 2.2 will allocate £80m to social housing providers across England to help fund energy efficiency upgrades for their residents’ homes.
What progress has been made on the move to Universal Credit? We've responded to the National Audit Office's study on the DWP's progress on the move to Universal Credit, ahead of a report to be published early 2024.
Tell us what you think about the Regulator’s proposed guidance on enforcement powers. The Social Housing Regulation Act received its Royal Assent in July 2023, becoming law. The Act aims to strengthen the powers of the Regulator of Social Housing, strengthen resident rights and make sure homes are safe and good quality.
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.
What does the data tell us about equality, diversity and inclusion in the social housing sector? . Katie Hipkiss, Research Lead at the NHF, takes a deep dive into the key findings from our latest report on equality, diversity and inclusion – ‘How diverse is England’s housing association workforce in 2023?’
Best practice case studies (Quality of homes). Here you'll find examples of housing associations working to improve the quality of their residents' homes.
Magenta Living – our experience with MMC and Building Better. Alex Whittle, Senior Project Manager at Magenta Living, talks to us about MMC, Building Better, and their challenges and plans for the future.
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’.
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.
Consultation on changes to the Regulator of Social Housing’s fees regime – our response. The Regulator of Social Housing has been consulting on changes to their fees regime, as part of a wider series of legislative changes ushered in by the Social Housing Regulation Act.
Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill receives Royal Assent. The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill has received Royal Assent, officially making it an Act of Parliament. We've outlined what the changes it looks to implement will mean and how they might impact the sector.
Domestic abuse and consumer regulation. This webinar discusses the requirements of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act and incoming consumer standards that will require housing associations to work cooperatively with other agencies to tackle domestic abuse and enable tenants to access appropriate support and advice.
Consultation on the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code. What does the Complaints Handling Code mean for housing associations? The Housing Ombudsman Service talks us through it and their proposals for monitoring compliance.
The power of staff networks – Black History Month 2023. This Black History Month, Elaine Lewis, shares her expertise, experience and knowledge of how staff networks can be powerful vehicles for change, and empower colleagues to challenge inequality.
Our response to the consultation on the consumer standards and Code of Practice. The Regulator for Social Housing has been consulting on their revised regulatory consumer standards and Code of Practice.
Induction for new board members (October 2023). If you’re new to the sector and you’d like a firmer grip on the housing world, this induction for new board members should help.
Clarion Futures - Money Guidance. Clarion Futures Money Guidance offers in-depth budgeting and money coaching to Clarion residents struggling to make ends meet.
National Governance Network. The National Governance Network provides a space for housing association board members and governance staff to hear and discuss the latest updates, and share best practice and insights on the key issues that matter most to you.
What do the recent net zero policy changes mean for social housing? Over the past month we have seen a number of net zero announcements from the government that will have an impact on the social housing sector’s work to decarbonise social homes across the country.
How can housing association leaders implement recommendation 7 from the Better Social Housing Review? . Recommendation 7: 'Housing associations should support residents and frontline staff to undertake an annual review of the progress each organisation is making in implementing this review's recommendations.'
How can housing association leaders implement recommendation 5 from the Better Social Housing Review? . Recommendation 5: ‘Housing associations should work with all residents to ensure that they have a voice and influence at every level of decision making across the organisation, through both voluntary and paid roles.’
How can housing association leaders implement recommendation 1 from the Better Social Housing Review? . Recommendation 1: ‘Every housing association, and the sector as a whole, should refocus on their core purpose and deliver against it.’
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.
Cost of living: best practice case studies. 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.
Driving change through data - reflecting on the NHF's EDI national data report and Better Social Housing Review. Victor da Cunha, Chair of the NHF's EDI in Housing Group reflects on how the sector can use data to drive change using the NHF's EDI national data report and Better Social Housing Review.
Communal and district heating: preparing for future regulation webinar. This webinar is focused on consumer protection, which is the topic of the first of four government consultations on the upcoming heat network regulations.
What does the new consumer regulatory regime mean for smaller housing associations webinar? This webinar enables smaller associations to improve their understanding of what the new social housing regulatory changes mean and how to effectively engage in the consultation process.
Our response to the Older People’s Housing Taskforce call for evidence. We’ve responded to the Older People’s Housing Taskforce’s call for evidence to understand the needs of older people’s housing now, and make recommendations on meeting demand in the future.
Government announces additional £80m under Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund. On Monday 2 October, Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Claire Coutinho announced up to £80m in additional funding will be made available through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.
How we’re preparing for the Renters Reform Bill at Stonewater. Sue Shirt explains how Stonewater are preparing for the Renters Reform Bill.
National Board Member Network - September 2023. Watch the recording from our National Board Member Network held on 26 September 2023.
Putting residents at the heart of change - Restructuring customer involvement at NCHA. Nottingham Community Housing Association has reshaped customer involvement with Together with Tenants. The new structure gives customers greater input on service delivery and stronger ties to the board.
Saluting our sisters for Black History Month 2023. For Black History Month 2023, Dewbien Plummer, Co-Chair of HouseProud shines the spotlight on inspirational Black Women making a difference in social housing.
Navigating a new era of social housing regulation . Laura Magezi, Policy Leader, NHF reviews how housing associations can navigate a new era of consumer regulation following the Social Housing Regulation Act officially becoming law.
Better Social Housing Review: Driving forward a culture of inclusivity. This webinar discussed how to deliver equitable services to meet the recommendations of the Better Social Housing Review.
Developing solutions for older people’s housing. During this webinar, we heard from the chair of the government’s Older People’s Housing Taskforce and discussed development solutions.
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.
What's next for the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act? On 29 August, the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act became enshrined in law. Ahead of the consultation period, we’ve put together a briefing to summarise what we know now about how the Act will affect supported and older person’s housing providers.
We urge the government to recommit to the their net zero manifesto pledge. It is vital that net zero does not slip down the political agenda and that housing associations have the funding they need to deliver their role in meeting this important target.
Our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee’s inquiry into Shared Ownership. The inquiry looked to examine some of the “challenges associated with shared home ownership schemes, including barriers to achieving full home ownership and whether shared ownership is genuinely an affordable route to owning a home.”
Great British Insulation Scheme offers households help to save £400 a year on energy bills. The government has announced a £1 billion insulation scheme which could help more than 300,000 homes in England, Scotland and Wales save an average of £400 a year on their energy bills.
How diverse is England’s housing association workforce in 2023? This report presents the NHF's latest findings of diversity within the housing association workforce in England. We have EDI data from 177 organisations, representing 76% of homes owned by housing associations in England.
Nearly five million households will live in unaffordable homes by 2030. One in every five households in England will be forced to spend more than a third of their income on housing by the end of the next parliament unless politicians commit to a long-term plan to fix the housing crisis, according to a new report.
Guidance published on understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home. This guidance is primarily aimed at all social and private rented housing landlords of all types of accommodation provision in England.
What does the latest reshuffle mean for housing? Find out what the latest political movements mean for the world of housing.
General election campaign: our long-term plan for housing. This webinar discussed how the NHF is making the case to the government for a long-term plan for housing in the context of a general election next year.
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.
Our response to the APPG inquiry into developer contributions. We’ve responded to the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Housing and Planning’s inquiry into England’s developer contribution system.
This Starts at Home Day we’re calling on all political parties to make every decision about care a decision about housing. Starts at Home Day returns today, 1 September 2023, for its seventh year. On this day each year, we celebrate the brilliant work supported housing providers do to support people who need some help to live fulfilled lives.
Heating our homes: NHF response to government call for evidence. This response covers some of the questions set out in the Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee call for evidence, Heating our Homes, published 7 July 2023.
Five years of Homes for Cathy: reflecting on our commitments to end homelessness. Five years on since the launch of the Homes for Cathy commitments, Vicki McDonald explains the next steps for housing associations and their work to help tackle homelessness.
National Customer Experience and Housing Management Network. Our National Customer Experience and Housing Management Network is open to all members interested in housing management, customer service and resident engagement. It follows on from the creation of our Customer Experience and Housing Management National Group .
Revised consumer standards and Code of Practice webinar. This webinar provides housing associations with valuable insights and help ensure they are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of social housing consumer regulation.
Draft roles in scope for competency and conduct standards. Read the draft scope for competency and conduct standards from DLUHC. This outlines mandatory qualifications and specific roles in focus for housing association staff to deliver high-quality customer service as apart of the Social Housing Regulation Act.
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.
Member briefing for consultation on consumer standards and Code of Practice. The Regulator of Social Housing has published a consultation seeking feedback on a set of draft consumer standards. We have produced a briefing for our members on the consultation on consumer standards and Code of Practice.
Decent Homes Standard. The Decent Homes Standard, which sets minimum standards for the condition of social homes, has been under review for several years. Here, you’ll find the latest information for housing associations as this develops.
Better Social Housing Review. An independent panel looked into issues of poor quality in social housing and developed actionable recommendations for social housing providers.
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.
Government consultation on fairer energy prices for heat network customers. The consultation announced on 4 August was open until 27 October 2023 and we’ve put together a response based on feedback from NHF members.
Help shape our response to the government’s consultation on the implementation of plan-making reforms. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is currently consulting on the implementation of plan-making reforms, proposing alterations to the scope, design and implementation of local plans.
What does the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act mean for supported and older person’s housing? This new legislation will affect supported housing providers by setting a framework for new systems for the supported housing and older person’s housing sector.
How housing associations can support Ending Veteran Homelessness webinar. In this webinar hear from the Office for Veterans Affairs, Riverside, and the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust. These organisations are at the forefront of making a difference in the lives of veterans through their dedicated efforts.
Meet the Board Member: Michael Finister-Smith. Michael is a board member for several housing associations - here he discusses the benefits this provides as well as the challenges and opportunities the are facing.
Social Housing Act receives Royal Assent. The Social Housing Regulation Act has received Royal Assent officially becoming law. The Act forms a new era of consumer regulation for the social housing sector.
We must get a deeper understanding of customer needs if we are to help them through the challenges of today . Deborah Owen-Ellis Clark, the newly appointed Chair of the NHF's National Customer Experience and Housing Managing Group, delves into the crucial role of housing associations in providing support to their customers.
Board diversity and the Chairs' Challenge. As over 50 housing leaders sign up to the NHF's Chairs' Challenge, Maggie Galliers reflects on the actions her board is committing to.
National Board Member Network - July 2023. Our board member network provides an opportunity for board members to come together from across the country and discuss sector-wide strategic issues.
Tell us what you think about new proposals for Ofsted inspections for children’s supported accommodation. Ofsted are consulting on their proposals for the way in which they will conduct inspections. This consultation will run from 10 July to 8 September 2023 and will inform Ofsted’s arrangements for inspections starting in April 2024.
What does the Economic Crime Levy mean for housing associations? The Economic Crime Levy is part of the government's plan to develop a long-term sustainable resourcing model to tackle economic crime. Rachel Orgill-Harris at Devonshires looks at how it might affect housing associations.
The future of pensions – Defined Benefit, Defined Contribution (or Collective Defined Contribution) model. Isio look at the different pensions models, the factors that can improve outcomes in retirement, and how technology and education will shape the future of pensions.
Spotlight on continued improvement in market conditions. Isio look at what the continued improvement in market conditions mean for the Local Government Pensions Scheme, the Social Housing Pensions Scheme, and single-employer own schemes.
Choosing the right auditor – be bold and brave when going out for tender. After their auditors unexpectedly resigned, Flagship Group made some changes to their approach when going out to successfully tender again.
Planning – opportunities and obstacles for delivering rural housing. We know that building homes in rural areas is often more challenging, so this webinar, which took place during Rural Housing Week 2023 focused on planning.
The HSE explains: the new building control regime for higher-risk buildings. Update from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on its latest work to operationalise the changes needed to implement the new higher-risk regulatory regime.
Corporation tax changes impacting housing associations and their subsidiaries. Changes being introduced by the Finance (No. 2) Bill 2023 will reduce the options available to housing associations and their subsidiary companies for mitigating their exposure to corporation tax.
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.
Update on VAT reliefs for decarbonisation and energy saving materials. RSM provide an update on VAT on energy saving materials and our joint response to HMRC's call for evidence on energy saving materials relief.
Holiday pay – what does the future hold? Holiday entitlement and pay have become particularly complex for employers over recent years. Whilst the government has stepped back from its commitment to enforcing holiday pay under a single enforcement body, it has recently released two separate consultations on the issue.
Homelessness – the ‘hidden’ rural crisis. To kick off Rural Housing Week 2023, we hosted a webinar on the 'hidden' homelessness crisis in rural areas.
The shortage of affordable housing in rural areas is hurting communities and the economy. The experience of so many rural communities is a stark example of what happens when the housing market doesn’t meet local needs.
Thank you for completing our EDI data tool. A big thank you to NHF members for contributing your data to our latest EDI data tool collection. Overall, 177 EDI Data Tools were submitted representing 76% of homes across the sector in England.
Demand for social homes in rural areas is growing at over 10 times the rate of that in towns and cities. New analysis by the NHF for Rural Housing Week has found that rural households on local authority waiting lists in England increased by 31% between 2019 and 2022, far exceeding the increase in predominantly urban areas of 3%.
Knowing our Homes: improving information about social housing. 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.
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.
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.
Supported housing 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.
Stepping out into community living. 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.
HouseProud Pledge - supporting LGBTQ+ residents in social housing. Alexandra Duffy, Training Lead at Stonewall Housing discusses the importance of the HouseProud Pledge and how it can help to create more inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ residents in social housing.
How to create a building safety case for higher-risk buildings webinar. This webinar shares the experiences of other housing associations who are developing their building safety cases to help support our members.
Share your views on draft regulations for procurement reform. The Cabinet Office is consulting on draft regulations to implement the Procurement Bill, seeking views on whether the policy intent established in the Bill has been reflected in the drafting of the regulations.
Windrush Day 2023 - celebrating 75 years of Black British history. Olive Jones. Director of People at the NHF celebrates the poignant 75th anniversary of the arrival of the Windrush generation in the UK and their historic legacy.
How will the Renters (Reform) Bill affect housing associations? The Renters (Reform) Bill gives new securities to private renters and aims to protect the rights of tenants, but will also affect the social housing sector. Find out how the Bill will impact housing associations.
Conservative voters support building social housing over homes for sale. The majority of Conservative voters in Britain believe we are not building enough social housing while around half think the government should prioritise building social housing over homes for sale or private rent. This is according to a recent YouGov poll commissioned by the NHF.
Together with Tenants: Delivering the Better Social Housing Review Recommendations. This webinar explores how housing associations can work with residents to deliver the Better Social Housing Review's recommendations and continue to prepare for new consumer regulations.
Why we need a long-term plan for housing report. As we look to the next general election, we are calling on the party that forms the next government to be ambitious and transformative in its approach to housing. We want to see a clear long-term plan to meet housing need.
Are you ready for Rural Housing Week 2023? Rural Housing Week is our annual spotlight on the vital importance of housing associations for rural communities. Taking place 3-7 July, this year's theme is 'building a better future for rural communities'.
Knowing our homes - an introduction. The Better Social Housing Review panel recommended that housing associations should work together to conduct and publish a thorough audit of all social housing in England. The NHF is working to deliver against this recommendation through a project we are calling 'Knowing our Homes'.
Knowing our Homes: improving social homes means improving the information we have about them. One of the key findings of the Better Social Housing Review is that social housing providers need to improve how they collect and use data – both about the condition of the homes they manage and about who lives in them.
Pride Month 2023 - a time to remember, reflect, and fight for equality. Celebrate Pride Month 2023 with Lynne Nicholls, Chair at First Brick Housing. Learn about the history of Pride, the importance of allyship, and how you can get involved.
Rural Housing Week. Rural Housing Week is an annual campaign to shine a spotlight on the vital importance of housing associations for rural communities. The theme for Rural Housing Week 2023 (3-7 July) was 'building a better future for rural communities'.
What are the hallmarks of effective boards? Following a recent away day for the NHF Board, where they began working through the materials in the Chairs' Challenge, Maggie Galliers reflects on the hallmarks of effective boards.
Our response to the call for evidence on VAT energy saving materials relief. We’ve responded to HM Revenue and Customs call for evidence on VAT energy saving materials – improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
Together with Tenants Charter – it’s about being proud of where we live. Helen Wild, ForHousing tenant shares her experience on the positive impact of the NHF’s Together with Tenants Charter, helping strengthen relationships between housing associations and residents.
Letter to the Secretary of State urging an extension to the deadline to apply for the Energy Bill Support Scheme Alternative Fund. The letter dated 26 May 2023 was co-signed by the NHF and representatives from several organisations representing heat network providers.
Best practice case studies and resources. Here you’ll find resources and examples of best practice to support housing associations in implementing the new, more stringent regulatory regime for higher-risk buildings, and with their wider work on building safety.
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.
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.
We’re calling for a renewed commitment to the delivery of the Housing Transformation Fund. The NHF has written a joint letter to the Secretary for Health and Social Care, Steve Barclay MP, following the publication of the government’s next steps to put People at the Heart of Care.
Changes to consumer regulation. In this webinar we heard from the Regulator for Social Housing on the new approach to consumer regulation and how housing associations can prepare for the changes. We also heard from Grand Union Housing Group about understanding their customers and their psychographic customer segmentation.
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.
Reducing carbon emissions at NHF events. The National Housing Federation is committed to reducing the overall carbon emissions of our events, while maintaining the high quality you expect.
NHF response to new Homes England strategy. We welcome Homes England’s renewed focus on regeneration in this ambitious strategic plan, which rightly recognises the key role housing associations should play in place-making, as well as the importance of sustainability in new communities.
New Board Member Induction Briefing - May 2023. This board member induction briefing is targeted at people new to the social housing sector and those who would like to learn more about the housing world.
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.
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.
Infrastructure Levy Briefing webinar. This webinar is an opportunity to hear from the DLHUC team working on the regulations and better understand the policies proposed under the new Infrastructure Levy.
Housing Ombudsman complaints handling and maladministration webinar. Hear from the Housing Ombudsman as they outline key challenges facing the social housing sector with complaints handling and maladministration.
Building Opportunity - employment and skills and the role of smaller housing associations webinar. This webinar, hosted alongside Communities that Work reviews the role of smaller housing associations in employment and skills services for social housing residents.
Creating a Carers Network. Read an EDI case study from Notting Hill Genesis about the creation of Carers Network supporting all colleagues who care for others alongside carrying out their day jobs.
Supported housing and positive health outcomes webinar. This webinar reviews strategies and different approaches to improving health outcomes for supported housing residents in social housing.
Four Million Homes – new resident opportunities and empowerment programme. In April the government is launching a new opportunities and empowerment programme called Four Million Homes targeted at improving engagement with social housing residents.
National Board Member Network - April 2023. This meeting covers the Better Social Housing Review and Roadmap to equality: an inclusive future.
The energy and cost of living crisis highlights the urgency of decarbonising social housing. A summary of the work carried out over winter by our climate and sustainability team - and a look ahead at what's coming up.
IImplementing 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.
Government response to consultation on Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation. The government has committed to many of the proposals outlined in their original consultation document, whilst subjecting others to further review and clarification through further guidance.
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.
Spring Budget 2023: Energy support for housing associations and their residents. An outline of measures announced in the Spring Budget to support consumers with the increased cost of energy.
Government publishes policy paper on nutrient pollution. The government has published a policy paper on its plans to support nutrient neutrality and reduce water pollution at its source through a number of measures.
310,000 children in overcrowded homes forced to share a bed with parents or siblings. NHF research reveals that one in every six children is forced to live in cramped conditions with no personal space because their family cannot access a suitable and affordable home.
Meet the board member: Andy Walder. Chair of Freebridge's board, Andy, talks about how he got into the sector, as well as his proudest moments and the biggest challenges facing housing associations today.
Emergency Alerts information for domestic abuse survivors. Domestic abuse charities urge survivors to turn off new alerts on secret phones.
Making social housing the most equal, diverse and inclusive sector it can be. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of NHF previews the launch of our updated EDI data tool for member housing associations to complete. This is the opportunity to measure the impact of the sector’s work on EDI and for improvements in closing data gaps to drive meaningful change.
NHF response to decision to scale back funding to bring together social care and supported housing. We are deeply disappointed by the government’s decision to dramatically scale back funding to bring together social care and supported housing.
Help shape our response to the government’s consultation on the Infrastructure Levy. The Infrastructure Levy is the government’s proposed new way of calculating developer contributions towards affordable housing and infrastructure – replacing current arrangements under Section 106.
Delivering the Better Social Housing Review webinar. This webinar outlines the Better Social Housing Review’s action plan to guide and support housing associations in the delivery of the report’s recommendations to drive improvements in the quality of homes.
Consultation on the revised directions to the Regulator of Social Housing: Tenant Involvement and Mutual Exchange - our response. Read our submission response to the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities' consultation on tenant involvement and mutual exchange.
Alternative cost recovery for remediation works - consultation response. Alternative cost recovery for remediation works: NHF response to government consultation on proposals to make regulations and statutory guidance under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
DLUHC and DWP commission new research on supported housing. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Department for Work and Pensions have commissioned research to assess the size, cost and demand of the supported housing sector.
Government response to children’s supported housing standards consultation.
FRS102 consultation accounting webinar. In this webinar hear from members of the SORP Working Party (SWP) who review amendments to the Financial Reporting Council's FRS102 consultation.
Second wave of Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund awards £778m for decarbonising social homes. The money will go towards to energy-saving measures ranging from loft insulation to new windows improvements for vulnerable households and off-gas grid homes with an energy efficiency rating of EPC D or worse.
Building resilience in an uncertain world - how smaller housing associations can cope with permacrisis. This webinar explored how smaller associations can cope with this continuing change and growing pressures while remaining healthy and robust, and continuing to meet the expectations of their residents and stakeholders.
Social housing minimum energy efficiency standards. We are seeking members’ views by the end of May 2023 on minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) in the social housing sector and to inform the NHF’s position ahead of a government consultation.
Meet the board member: Nicola Knowles. Board member Nicola Knowles writes about her experience at Shal and balancing all the different priorities of a housing association.
Living Well partnership helping people to live independently. 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.
Research reveals increase in ‘hidden’ homelessness in rural areas. The countryside is battling a ‘hidden homelessness’ crisis driven by soaring housing costs and a shortfall in local authority funding, a new report shows.
Latest technical review of Approved Document B – our response. We’ve responded to the government's consultation on proposed amendments to Approved Document B – the guidance on meeting the fire safety requirements set out in building regulations.
Alternative cost recovery for remediation works consultation – briefing for housing associations. The government is consulting on a new duty that will require landlords to take reasonable steps to ensure that all alternative avenues of cost recovery have been explored before passing remediation costs on to leaseholders.
Service charge transparency requirements – briefing for housing associations. The costs associated with new requirements for landlords under the Building Safety Act 2022 may be passed onto leaseholders through service charges. The Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is consulting on proposals to ensure residents understand exactly what they are being charged for.
‘I feel the most stable’: supported housing for people with mental illness. Find out how housing associations can support young people with severe mental illness and avoid inpatient re-admittance.
Westbridge mental health resettlement service. 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.
Rural Housing Week. An annual campaign to showcase the fantastic work housing associations do in rural communities, Rural Housing Week 2022 is your opportunity to highlight the many ways in which housing associations are working to support the levelling up agenda in rural areas.
Our offer for smaller housing associations. Our new offer to smaller housing associations sets out how the NHF will support smaller housing associations through more tailored resources, better networking opportunities, and a greater voice in our influencing work.
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.
Quality of homes. Our work in this area focuses not just building great homes, but also maintaining and regenerating homes, sustainability, guaranteeing safety and delivering excellent customer service.
Finance. Find the latest updates on social housing finance and key resources to help you manage your organisation.
VAT and the installation of energy savings materials. RSM provide an update on VAT reliefs for the installation of energy-saving materials, and set out some recommendations to help housing associations utilise these reliefs.
Climate and sustainability. Everything housing associations need to know about decarbonisation and sustainability in one place.
NHF response to the Chancellor's Spring Budget 2023. Today, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt laid out his Spring Budget for 2023.
Mortgagee exclusion clauses – why are they important and what do you need to know? Helga Chau, Corporate Counsel at A2Dominion Housing Group and Chair of the Property Finance Working Group, looks at mortgagee exclusion clauses in Section 106 agreements, and shares a new resource to help housing associations work with local authorities to implement them.
VAT: replacement cladding and fire remediation works . HMRC has recently withdrawn statutory clearances provided to several contractors in relation to the zero rating of remediation works. This will impact projects where a specific clearance has not been obtained and the works have been completed in the last four years.
Tax. We're working with our tax advisors RSM to keep housing associations informed on key tax issues impacting the sector.
Update on option to tax. HMRC has made changes to the option to tax notification process which may have an impact on organisations undertaking non-residential property transactions.
Meet the new Chair and Vice Chair of the NHF’s Smaller Housing Association Network. The NHF’s Smaller Housing Association Network has appointed Jesse Fajemisin as its new Chair and Helena Evans as its new Vice-Chair.
Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill: reforms to national planning policy – our response. We’ve responded the government’s consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework, reiterating our concerns that some of the changes proposed in the consultation will lead to a loss of affordable homes.
Social Housing Regulation Bill – latest amendments. Find out the latest update on the Social Housing Regulation Bill as it continues its passage through Parliament in the House of Lords.
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.
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.
Accounting for pensions at 31 March 2023. This year raises specific issues for housing associations with Defined Benefit pension obligations at the 31 March 2023 year-end. Isio outline what auditors will expect and what housing associations can do.
Supported and older people’s housing development survey. In autumn 2021 the NHF surveyed members to explore plans and appetite for developing more supported and older people’s housing and to better understand the barriers to development in this sector.
Pensions. We're working with our new pensions advisers Lane Clark & Peacock (LCP) to keep the sector up to date on key areas affecting housing associations.
Further updates on the pension benefit review, and new Funding and Investment Regulations. Isio provide an update on the ongoing TPT benefit review and the support available to members around this, as well as an update on the code of practice putting new regulations into practice.
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.
Update on the latest government consultation on the Building Safety Levy. The NHF submitted a response to the latest consultation on the Building Safety Levy, and has made the case for measures to ensure that the levy will not have an adverse impact on the supply of affordable homes.
Financial Reporting Exposure Draft 82 amendments to FRS 102 published for consultation. The Financial Reporting Council is currently consulting on Financial Reporting Exposure Draft 82, proposing a number of amendments to accounting requirements to reflect changes in International Financial Reporting Standards.
Rethinking commercial to residential conversions. Our response to inquiry on rethinking commercial to residential conversions as a solution for providing more settled housing options for homeless households.
Embracing equity for International Women’s Day 2023. Ijay Onyechi, Vice Chair of the NHF’s EDI in Housing reflects on the importance of embracing equity to help support women’s equality within social housing.
Government launches campaign with simple actions to cut energy bills. The government's 'It All Adds Up' energy saving campaign provides advice that could help residents cut their energy bills.
Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding portal is now live. The Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding online application portal is now open for residents without a direct relationship with their supplier, including those on heat networks.
Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS) - Alternative Funding portal. This webinar explains how the portal for the EBSS (Alternative Funding) will provide £400 payments to customers who do not have a direct relationship with an energy supplier, including those on communal and district heating systems.
Sustainable Homes 2023: a new event for everyone working to decarbonise social housing. A new conference shaped by social housing professionals for social housing professionals, a place to network and learn from each other, and an essential event for everyone working to decarbonise the sector.
Reflecting on progress during LGBT+ History month. Jo Peres reflects on her time working in social housing as a leading figure in driving and creating an inclusive workplace culture for LGBT+ staff and residents.
400,000 households unprotected by energy price cap. Many households are not protected by the government’s energy price cap because their energy is supplied through a communal heating system
Communications and Influencing Network – The Better Social Housing Review. This webinar provides an overview of the Better Social Housing Review’s final report and recommendation for the Communications and Influencing Network.
Energy crisis: support for housing associations and residents. As well as discussing the energy crisis and support for housing associations and residents, this webinar looks ahead at what the social housing sector can expect in the way of support from the government in the coming months.
'Boards are a dedicated force'. Chair of the NHF looks back at our Board Excellence Conference 2023.
Implementing the voluntary cap on shared ownership rent increases. In response to the certainty provided by the announcement on the cap on social and affordable rent increases at 7%, many housing associations have pledged to introduce the same cap for shared owners. This webinar explores how this cap can be implemented and some of the issues you may need to consider.
Affordability checks when allocating social rented housing. Carrying out affordability checks when allocating a home gives residents and housing associations confidence that all relevant housing cost can be paid for, enabling the best possible start to a tenancy.
Spring Budget 2023: National Housing Federation submission. By working with housing associations on the measures outlined in this submission, the government can deliver the affordable, energy efficient, high quality homes the country needs.
NHF response to rent caps and 2022 Autumn Statement . The NHF responds to the 2022 Autumn Statement news that that a cap of 7% will be applied to social rents in 2023/24.
Joint call for energy efficiency drive to tackle cost of living crisis . Together with Energy UK, the Local Government Association and the Federation of Master Builders, the National Housing Federation is calling on the government to continue to prioritise energy efficiency as a core solution to the cost of living crisis.
Housing associations' statement on evictions and support for residents. Housing associations have made a permanent commitment to residents, that no one will be evicted from their home as a result of financial hardship.
Collecting and using resident diversity data to create positive change. Watch our meeting recording for members on best practice for collecting resident equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) data.
Make sure residents on prepayment meters know what help they’re entitled to with energy bills. It’s vital that residents on prepayment meters know what they are entitled to and how to use their vouchers.
Government update on damp and mould. The Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove MP, has set out the actions the government is taking in response to the coroner’s report into the death of Awaab Ishak.
Views from our advisory group. Members of the Finance Policy Advisory Group provide the latest updates, insights and thoughts on key finance topics.
New Ofgem Energy Aware toolkits to help residents save on energy bills. The energy regulator Ofgem has launched a campaign to support consumers this winter with advice on their rights, financial schemes they are eligible for and ways to save energy.
Guidance published on the Energy Bill Relief Scheme ‘pass-through’ requirements for housing associations. The Energy Prices Act 2022 provides the legislative framework to deliver the government’s package of energy support, including the Energy Price Guarantee and the Energy Bill Relief Scheme.
Energy Bill Relief Scheme Review and continued support for housing associations and their residents beyond March 2023. The NHF has written to the Chancellor and the Secretary of State alongside Community Housing Cymru and the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations ahead of the publication of Energy Bill Relief Scheme review.
Energy Prices Bill to help households and businesses with energy costs this winter. Energy Prices Bill includes an support for households without a domestic electricity contract and will require benefits to be passed on to tenants.
What the Energy Bill Discount Scheme means for housing associations and heat network customers. Housing associations that operate heat networks are required to apply for Energy Bills Discount Scheme heat network support before 31 March 2024.
Tackling the LGBTQ+ youth homelessness crisis. To mark LGBT+ History Month Jotepreet Bhandal, Campaigns, Policy and Research Lead at akt reviews how can we tackle the LGBTQ+ youth homelessness crisis in the UK.
Building Safety Act.
Building safety. Nothing is more important to housing associations than the safety of their residents. Since the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in June 2017, building and fire safety has become a key national and political priority.
National Domestic Abuse Group. Bringing together representatives from housing associations across the country to improve the sector’s identification of and response to domestic abuse.
Information for leaseholders: frequently asked questions. We've answered some commonly asked questions that leaseholders have raised regarding remedial works, shared owners, mortgages and valuations, and the Building Safety Act.
Remediation, legislation and regulations.
Building a Safer Future Charter and culture change. The Building a Safer Future Charter was created to promote a positive culture and behaviour change in the safety of the built environment.
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry. The Grenfell Tower Inquiry concluded with the release of its Phase 2 report on 4 September. It published its Phase 1 report on 30 October 2019.
Approved Document B. Approved Document B covers building regulation in England on fire safety matters within and around buildings.
Building Safety Regulator. A new Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has been created within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) with extensive new powers of regulation, inspection and enforcement.
Fire Safety Act. The Bill has been designed to ensure that people feel safe in their homes and a tragedy like the Grenfell Tower fire will never happen again.
Government advice on remediation and risk mitigation. On 21 July 2021, the government published a statement from a group of independent experts on building safety in medium and lower-rise blocks of flats
Building safety regulation. Specific points of regulation and legislation in the context of fire safety.
Funding for remediation. A review of the main government funds open to housing associations to fund the remediation and replacement of unsafe cladding systems.
Securing mortgages on flats affected by the building safety crisis. Mortgage lenders have been providing zero valuations for properties in multi-occupied buildings with potential safety risks, leaving leaseholders unable to remortgage or sell their homes
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.
Improving the complaints handling process for social housing residents. The Housing Ombudsman reviews the positive impact of the government’s removal of democratic filter to speed up the complaints handling process for social housing residents.
Help shape our response to the latest technical review of Approved Document B – member briefing. The NHF will be submitting a response to the consultation on behalf of the sector. To help shape our response we’ve published a briefing that summarises the government’s proposals and highlights the key questions we’re seeking feedback on.
Succession planning for inclusion. Read our EDI report on succession planning for inclusivity featuring case studies and lessons learned from eight housing associations.
Chairs who have committed to the challenge. Chairs' Challenge: A vision for change > List of signatories
EDI Chairs' Challenge. 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.
Roadmap to equality: creating 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.
Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit. Check out our new recruitment toolkit for housing associations. This includes guidance on how board members, governance and HR teams can effectively set up recruitment campaigns to meet your equality, diversity and inclusion needs.
EDI data tool. This data tool developed by the NHF enables housing associations to compare workforces to the communities they serve.
Safety tests and remedial work. The latest information on government investigations into building materials and practices – including cladding remedial work and fire doors.
Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill: reforms to national planning policy consultation – member briefing. The NHF will be submitting a sector response to the consultation. To help shape our response, we are seeking views from members in response to the questions and proposals outlined in this briefing.
Updates on the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Bill. The Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Bill passed its Committee Stage reading in the Housing of Commons. This legislation is a Private Members’ Bill that aims to tackle problematic exempt accommodation.
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.
Latest coronavirus guidance and information for housing associations. As rules and guidelines develop to reflect the changing situation, we have summarised the announcements which affect housing associations.
Share your views on proposed guidance for the new shared ownership model and Right to Shared Ownership. Following changes to the shared ownership model, the SORP Working Party are consulting on guidance to support those who prepare financial statements, as well as guidance on the new Right to Share Ownership model.
What are the barriers to retrofitting heritage homes? It is vital that central and local government work to ensure that residents in heritage areas can live comfortably and safely in homes that are both historically significant and energy efficient.
Net Zero Review: what housing associations need to know. Chris Skidmore’s review underlines the importance of the 2050 net zero target, and of continued investment in housing to achieve this.
The Regulator of Social Housing sets out steps to reshape consumer regulation. The Regulator of Social Housing has published its plan for implementing a new approach to consumer regulation ahead of the finalised Social Housing Regulation Bill.
Together with Tenants: a resident's perspective webinar. This webinar provides residents with the opportunity to come together and hear more about Together with Tenants directly from the perspective of social housing residents.
Accounting and the Housing SORP. We’re working with housing associations and finance bodies on the International Financial Reporting Standard and the Housing SORP.
‘If you’re too comfortable, you’re not learning’ – increasing diversity on boards at Believe. A group of chairs have been working with the NHF to consider how we can increase diversity on housing association boards. Here, Judith explains what steps they are taking at Believe Housing.
Managing risk to deliver value webinar. This webinar is targeted at smaller housing associations on the topic of insurance and risk management tailored to your specific needs.
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 authority duty to provide support within domestic abuse safe accommodation– funding allocated. The government has allocated £125 million to local authorities to cover the costs of the new duty around the provision of support within domestic abuse safe accommodation services.
Details on the next Affordable Homes Programme announced. The government has announced the prospectus for the 2021-26 Affordable Homes Programme (AHP).
Planning. We’re working to ensure reforms to the planning system help to maximise the delivery of new affordable homes, and consulting our members on the key priority changes needed.
Changes to the planning process. Wholesale changes to the planning environment may soon be on their way, with the aim of speeding up the planning process so more homes are built sooner.
Case study: Hart Homes - Watford. Watford Community Housing and Watford Borough Council have formed a joint venture called Hart Homes and are aiming to deliver more than 500 homes over six years.
Case study: Blaby District Council and emh group. emh group and Blaby District Council have been working together in Leicestershire since 2008 to deliver more homes to the county.
Mergers, Group Structures and Partnerships voluntary code. This code gives housing associations a framework for mergers, group structures or other partnerships.
How many homes did housing associations build in 2019/20? This briefing details the number of homes housing associations developed in 2019/20.
Government consultation on 2023 rent increases – share your views. We have produced a briefing for NHF members on the new government consultation on 2023 rent increases.
Consumer Regulation Review 2021-22 summary . Read our summary of the Regulator of Social Housing's Consumer Regulation Review 2021-22 which sets out their approach to consumer regulation.
New First Homes policy. Read our initial response to this consultation, and our plans to coordinate a sector-wide response.
Meet the board member: Tom Fadden. Tom Fadden, Board Member at Saffron Housing, talks about disability access, how to deliver shared goals with tenants and spinning plates.
Working in partnership with local authorities. We are working with the Local Government Association (LGA) to bring together housing associations and local authorities to tackle homelessness together.
Welfare Reform Group. This group advises on the NHF's priorities, influencing work and support for members on welfare reform.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Housing Group. This national group has been set up to collaborate with the NHF on the key issue of diversity, equality and inclusion in the housing association sector.
Board Bulletin. Sign up to our dedicated quarterly newsletter for housing association board members.
Pensions guidance for housing associations. The NHF, in partnership with other sector leaders, have issued guidance to enable housing associations to defined benefit account the Social Housing Pension Scheme and the Scottish Housing Association Pension Scheme for the first time.
An update on LIBOR reform and the transition to SONIA. LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) will cease to be published from the end of 2021 and although SONIA has been agreed as the replacement rate (and is already being used for new transactions) there is still a lot work to be done on the transition, especially for legacy agreements. Matt Cooper, Tax and Treasury Director at Places for People, delves into the detail.
Tax update: changes to off-payroll working (IR35) from April 2021. The government has passed legislation confirming that the new IR35 rules will be introduced from April 2021. It is important that housing associations plan for these changes and that processes are in place to ensure that the new obligations are met. Our tax advisors RSM explain how this will work in practice.
Social Housing Pension Scheme – current considerations. Recent movements in markets and upcoming changes in Defined Benefit funding regulations are putting pressure on Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS) funding levels. Our pensions advisers Isio discuss recent and upcoming developments and outline the current considerations to take on board.
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.
Preparing annual accounts – corporation tax considerations. With most housing associations in the midst of annual statutory audits, it’s a good time to have a corporation tax ‘spring clean’. Our tax advisers RSM outline some useful considerations.
Making Tax Digital for VAT - the final requirement of digital links. Most housing associations are successfully submitting their VAT returns under the Making Tax Digital regime. Arguably, however, the real challenge will come when the ‘digital link’ soft landing period ends in April 2021. Our tax advisors RSM explain this in more detail.
Governance. Helping housing associations to establish an effective governance framework.
Design of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) 2023-2026 – consultation response. National Housing Federation response to proposals for the Energy Company Obligation Plus (ECO+) scheme to deliver energy efficiency measures in homes across Great Britain from 2023-2026.
Poverty and housing in the private rented sector. 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.
Recycled Capital Grant Fund can now be used for fire safety works. The list of permitted uses for the Fund has been updated to include fire safety works arising from the Fire Safety Act 2021.
Equality, diversity and inclusion . We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) through our EDI strategy and policy.
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.
Minister for Veteran Affairs pledges to end veteran homelessness. The Office for Veterans Affairs has announced £8.55m of funding over two years to fund more than 900 veteran supported housing units.
£500m for refugee move on accommodation announced . The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has announced £500m of capital funding to support local authorities to provide more move on accommodation for people who have arrived in the UK under the Ukraine Family Scheme, the Homes for Ukraine Scheme and the Afghan Resettlement Scheme.
Homelessness National Group. The Homelessness National Group was formed in summer 2018 and shapes, informs and influences our work on homelessness.
The Better Social Housing Review webinar. This webinar reviews the main findings and recommendations from the Better Social Housing Review’s final report and outlines the next steps for social housing to drive improvements in the quality of homes.
Fighting the legal case for BME housing associations. Chaya Spitz, Chief Executive of Agudas Israel Housing Association (AIHA) reviews the importance of winning a Supreme Court case confirming the legality of prioritising housing for members of the Orthodox Jewish community.
Delivering supported housing for single homeless households through SHAP webinar. This webinar provides housing associations with guidance for completing applications for the government's new Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme.
The Better Social Housing Review. The NHF and CIH have published a joint report to address the issues of quality within the social housing sector.
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.
Our response to the Better Social Housing Review report. Read our response to the Better Social Housing Review report which aims to address the issues of quality within the social housing sector.
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.
Importance of supported housing in preventing homelessness and developing positive health outcomes webinar. This webinar reviews the emerging findings from the NHF’s research on the impact of supported housing on homeless prevention and improving the health and wellbeing of customers.
Credit adjustment spread methodologies - consultation response. This consultation from the Bank of England’s Risk-Free Rate Working Group focuses on credit adjustment spread methodologies for fallbacks in cash products referencing GBP LIBOR.
Consumer credit authorisation. The aim of this guidance is to assist housing associations both in applying legislation to their businesses and in understanding how and when to get authorised for consumer credit/FCA regulated activities, where appropriate.
Pensions update – Defined Benefit Funding Code Consultation. The Pensions Regulator issued its first consultation on the new Defined Benefit Funding Code on 3 March 2020. Our pensions advisers ISIO explain the detail behind it.
Accounting considerations for housing associations - discussion document. We’ve produced a document outlining accounting considerations for housing associations for 2019/20 year end, focusing on the impact of coronavirus on impairment reviews of social housing, and McCloud and GMP Equalisation pensions accounting.
VAT grouping – Call for Evidence. HM Treasury has released a Call for Evidence in relation to VAT grouping, and in particular the criteria relating to establishment, eligibility and registration. The NHF has responded to this on behalf of its members, with the help of tax advisers RSM, who explain the detail behind this consultation here.
VAT efficiency opportunities for housing associations. There are many ways for housing associations to drive VAT efficiencies by making use of existing VAT legislation and HMRC accepted arrangements. Our tax advisers RSM explain how this works.
Tax update: Domestic Reverse Charge and Construction Industry Scheme. The Domestic Reverse Charge for the construction industry is set to be introduced on 1 March 2021, with new rules bringing practical and financial challenges for housing associations. HMRC is also running an awareness drive about organisations' obligations under the Construction Industry Scheme. Our tax advisers RSM outline the detail.
Local Government Pension Scheme – current considerations. Our pensions advisers Isio update on the latest on the Local Government Pension Scheme, including the position on funding and end of year reporting, and outline some recommended next steps.
Coronavirus - an update on tax issues. The government has introduced a range of tax-related measures to assist businesses during the coronavirus crisis. Our tax advisers RSM have summarised those likely to be of most interest to housing associations, as well outlining other related issues worth considering.
Coronavirus – advice on pensions. Our pensions advisers Isio have outlined some considerations for housing associations to take on board during the coronavirus crisis.
An update on Making Tax Digital. Following the introduction of the government’s Making Tax Digital initiative last year, the final stage is for organisations to provide digital links and record a trail of all data changes.
'Going concern' standard revisedGoing concern’ standard revised – what this means for housing associations. The Financial Reporting Council has revised its ‘going concern’ standard which increases the level of responsibility on organisations' auditors. Julia Crowe, Head of Social Housing at Crowe UK LLP, explains the detail and the implications for housing associations.
Example Standard Mortgagee Protection Clause. A Securitisation Working Group (SWG) made up of various sector stakeholders has formulated an example mortgagee protection clause.
SONIA compounded index - consultation response. We've responded to the Bank of England consultation on its proposals to produce a daily index to support the use of SONIA by simplifying the calcuation of interest rates.
Mortgagee Protection Clause - GLA version. The Greater London Authority has issued a new version of the model mortgagee protection clause, which has been revised following discussions with housing associations and sector specialists.
Pensions tax changes. The Spring Budget 2020 included some changes to pensions tax. Our pensions advisers ISIO outline the detail behind this, the implications for pension scheme members, and what your housing association should consider.
It’s never been more important to collaborate and share our ideas. March 2021 will not only serve as an anniversary of sorts as it’ll be 12 months since the pandemic changed our lives, but it’s also the date of the NHF’s next Finance Conference. Michelle Allott, Finance Director at Together Housing Group, Chair of the NW regional finance forum and member of FPAG, says it’s never been more important to share our ideas as we continue to mitigate the effects of the ongoing crisis.
Material operational effects of coronavirus and the impact on housing associations. The coronavirus outbreak is likely to have material operational effects on housing associations in the UK. Financial experts Moody's outline the impacts they expect to see in the sector.
EDI in housing. Our report taking a look at how equality, diversity and inclusion looks within the housing association sector.
Equality, diversity and inclusion report launch (webinar). Join us for this NHF member only webinar to discuss the Insight Report findings and how we can work together as a sector to make change happen.
Together Housing Group / Fresh eyes on the Board. We had a lack of diversity within our governance structures and decided it was time to do something about it.
One Housing / Recruitment processes. At One Housing we want to ensure that our recruitment processes are as accessible and inclusive as possible. We also hope to address a lack of representation of women and people from a BAME background in our senior management teams through positive action.
National Housing Federation’s Together with Tenants now covering more than two million homes. The National Housing Federation’s Together with Tenants initiative has now been formally adopted by 165 housing associations, covering more than two million homes.
How representative is the housing association workforce of the communities we serve? . Explore our new report: Equality, diversity and inclusion: an insight review of housing association staff in England.
Addressing the sector's auditor shortage – guidance for housing associations. As part of our work to address the sector's audit shortage, we've outlined some steps that housing associations can take to help bring more auditors to the sector.
Government launches new Social Housing Quality Resident Panel. The government has launched a resident-led panel to influence plans to reform social housing.
Updates to shared ownership Key Information Documents. Homes England has recently updated the Key Information Documents for shared owners for the Affordable Homes Programme so that they align more closely with the Shared Ownership Affordable Homes Programme.
National Board Member Network - December 2022. Watch the recording from our National Board Member Network held on 2 December 2022.
Practical solutions for zero carbon homes. This webinar explores a range of practical best practice on retrofitting homes, low carbon new builds, working with residents and tech solutions for net zero.
What does Rent to Buy mean from a VAT perspective? RSM have summarised what Rent to Buy might mean for Registered Providers in relation to tax.
Ensuring excellence for housing association boards. Maggie Galliers CBE describes what she is looking forward to at our upcoming Board Excellence in Housing 2023 conference.
Tools and resources. Here you'll find links to tools and resources to help housing associations with decarbonisation. This page is updated regularly.
Update on the pension benefit review, Social Housing Pension Scheme, and new regulations. Isio provide an update on the ongoing TPT benefit review, the implication of lower expected returns, and the new funding and investment regulations due in 2023.
Advice on potential power disruption for supported housing and care homes. Supported housing and care homes are not being considered as priority protected sites which means they will not be included in DLUHC contingency plans.
In conversation with the Building Safety Regulator webinar. This webinar is an opportunity to meet key figures from the Building Safety Regulator and learn more about key issues facing the sector.
Widening the availability of section 71 registered social landlord relief. HMRC has updated its guidance to cover a number of scenarios around section 71.
The new Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, announced that the off payroll working (IR35) rules introduced from April 2021 (6 April 2017 for the public sector) are to continue unchanged in a reversal of the proposed repeal announced by the previous Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng. On the basis that the rules won’t change, now is a good time to check the level of your compliance with IR35 obligations. Particularly as the HMRC ‘light touch’ approach to penalties for inaccuracies that were not deliberate ended on 5 April 2022, and HMRC is stepping up its compliance activity. Recap on IR35 obligations Under the rules introduced from 6 April 2021, medium or large-sized organisations in the private and third sectors (excluding those that are “wholly overseas”) have the responsibility for deciding whether arrangements with third party intermediaries such as Personal Service Companies (PSC) do in fact represent a disguised employment. Where an arrangement is deemed to be ‘inside IR35’ on the basis that it is a disguised employment, then the fee payer is responsible for operating PAYE/NIC on payments, including employer NIC, and where applicable the apprenticeship levy. The client using the services of the worker operating via an intermediary such as a PSC is also required to meet other obligations. For example, once the client has applied reasonable care and has determined whether the off payroll working rules apply to an engagement, it is required to communicate that decision in the form of a Status Determination Statement (SDS). It is also necessary for the client using the services to offer a status disagreement process to deal with any disputes regarding the SDS and respond within 45 days. Where the client is defined as a small business by the Companies Act 2006, responsibility for assessing the arrangements, and applying IR35 where necessary, will remain with the workers intermediary such as the PSC. Common issues and misunderstandings on off payroll working within the social housing sector Now that the IR35 intermediaries rules have been in place for over 18 months, our tax advisers, RSM, are seeing some recurring issues and misunderstandings within the sector around the rules, including: Obligations with regard to PSC versus obligations with regard to self-employed individuals Whilst employment status tests for workers providing services to a client via their own intermediary such as a PSC are the same as status tests for self-employed workers who are not operating via a PSC, the obligations that you have in relation to each differ and we often see confusion around this. As above, obligations, and risk, in relation to the use of PSCs by a medium or large client apply from 6 April 2021 only, whereas your obligation to determine whether a self-employed worker is genuinely self-employed for tax purposes have been in place for many years under separate rules. Where you are using the services of a PSC, then you are required to confirm your status assessment in a formal SDS and offer a status disagreement process. A formal SDS does not need to be issued when a self-employed individual is working for you, although ou must still assess whether or not they are genuinely self-employed, and you should keep a record of this. If the status of a self-employed worker who is not operating via a PSC is assessed and it is determined that they have the features of employment, then they must be treated as an actual employee for both PAYE/NIC and employment rights purposes. Where a PSC worker is determined as ‘inside IR35’ then they are treated as a ‘deemed employee’ for PAYE/NIC purposes only and do not automatically have employee status for rights such as pension auto-enrolment. Employment status and the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) Many housing associations engage with off payroll sub-contractors who are paid via the CIS. It is important to emphasise that obligations in relation to assessing employment status and IR35 must be undertaken for sub-contractors as they are for any off-payroll worker. It is only once you have determined that the off-payroll worker is outside IR35/genuinely self employed that you can make payments to them under the CIS. In this respect it is often overlooked that each monthly CIS contractor return requires a declaration to be completed confirming that the employment status of each individual included on the CIS return has been considered and it has been confirmed that they are not in fact an employee or deemed employee. Obligations where workers are sourced via a recruitment agency Much like many other organisations, housing associations often source temporary workers via third parties such as recruitment agencies. In this situation payments are made to the recruitment agency, but it is important to obtain confirmation from the agency on a worker-by-worker basis as to whether or not the worker is subject to PAYE/NIC by the agency. If the recruitment agency is contracting with a worker operating via an intermediary such as a PSC and onwardly providing them, then the housing association as the client (i.e the end user of the worker’s services) has IR35 obligations, unless it is a small business as defined by the Companies Act 2006. Importantly, the housing association must consider the status of the worker and issue a SDS to both the agency that it contracted with and the worker. Failure to meet this obligation can result in the housing association becoming liable for any PAYE/NIC due. Due diligence on the labour supply chain is also important because, outside of IR35, there can be other tax and/or reputational risks if the worker is engaged by a party in the labour supply chain who is not correctly operating PAYE. For example, where the worker is working for a client in the UK, but is engaged by a party in the labour supply chain based outside of the UK who is not operating In summary, for now at least, the off payroll working rules are here to stay and HMRC are stepping up their compliance activity following the end of the ‘light touch’ year for penalties. All housing associations should periodically review their compliance in the high-profile area of employment status. Our tax advisors RSM work with many housing associations and other organisations with regard to their obligations under the off payroll working rules and would be pleased to help with any queries. For an initial discussion please get in touch with David Williams-Richardson. The Chancellor announced that the off payroll working rules introduced from April 2021 are to continue. Now is a good time to check the level of your compliance with IR35 obligations.
How to support a Partial Exemption Special Method application to HMRC. Discussions between the NHF and HMRC has highlighted some ways in which a housing association can support HMRC in reviewing a PESM application.
What does the Autumn Statement mean for housing associations? Last week, the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, shared his Autumn Statement. We have summarised the key announcements relevant to housing associations.
The right thing to do – using the Chair’s Challenge to increase diversity of housing association boards. Doris Jamieson, Non-Executive Director of Flagship Group, describes why she is working with her board to take on the challenge to improve EDI.
During a summer of instability, what progress has social housing made decarbonisation? 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.
Supporting housing association boards to embed equality, diversity and inclusion. NHF’s External Affairs Manager Bethan Buck gives an update on our work with equality, diversity and inclusion on housing association boards.
Hard to decarbonise social homes. This report examines why some social homes are harder to decarbonise than others.
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.
New Housing Ombudsman report on noise complaints. The Housing Ombudsman has published a report on noise nuisance providing recommendations to social landlords on how to deal with the issue
Join our roundtable discussions on the finalised tenant satisfaction measures. We are running a series of virtual roundtable discussions to get member feedback on the Regular of Social Housing's finalised tenant satisfaction measures.
Code of Conduct 2012.
Code of Conduct for NHF events. All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and volunteers at our events are required to agree with the following code of conduct.
The NHF signs letter calling for an increase in benefits in line with inflation. With charities warning that families will struggle to pay their rent and feed their children during the winter months, the letter urges the Prime Minister to make this change as soon as possible.
An update on our work to improve understanding of supported housing . The NHF has been engaging with Bob Blackman MP to help shape upcoming reforms to supported housing.
Insulating social homes would save residents more than £700m a year. Social housing residents would have their heating bills reduced by 42% if their homes were insulated and draught proofed, according to a new research by the National Housing Federation.
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.
Forging a better understanding of supported housing at a time of reform. Following a visit from Bob Blackman MP, Heather Thomas, Chief Executive at Sapphire Independent Housing, discussed the upcoming Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Bill.
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.
Our recent work on non-commissioned exempt accommodation. On 23 February, a parliamentary debate was tabled by the Labour Party on non-commissioned exempt accommodation.
Great Places . Read the final report from the Great Places Commission, setting out 10 clear recommendations for housing associations, the Government and local partners.
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.
Guidance on essential moves. New guidance from MHCLG and PHE clarifies that essential moves can continue.
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.
Social Housing White Paper. A summary of the white paper proposals and our initial response and next steps.
DWP guidance on deductions from benefits. The Department for Work and Pensions has published guidance that explains how creditors, including landlords, can request deductions from benefits to help people manage debt.
Coronavirus and the end of LIBOR. The world has changed since the NHF’s update last December on the end of the LIBOR benchmark rate.
Our meeting with the Housing Minister and other political engagement. An update on our recent influencing work, including our roundtable with the Housing Minister and our engagement with the new Labour Shadow Cabinet.
Coming together to house an ageing population. The Older Persons Housing Group has been set up to help tackle the barriers that are currently stopping us from building the 38,000 new homes per year for older people that are needed to meet future demand.
Supported housing. Supported housing exists to ensure everyone in our communities can live their best life, whatever their circumstances, ideally within their own home.
Preventing homelessness together - the next steps (webinar). The coronavirus outbreak has helped highlight the need for care and homes for the country's homeless but we need to build momentum so the topic of homelessness remains front of mind after this time. See how our sector hopes to do this.
Over 200 housing associations pledge to tackle homelessness. 201 housing associations have pledged to tackle homelessness by signing the Commitment to Refer.
New coronavirus inquiry. Feed into our response to the HCLG Select Committee inquiry into the impact of coronavirus n homelessness and renting.
Budget 2020. New briefing summarising the key housing announcements by the government.
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.
Building Safety Bill: member briefing. This Bill will introduce significant changes to building safety regulation. This briefing summarises the key points for housing associations.
The Regulator of Social Housing has published its learnings from the latest Consumer Regulation Review. The Consumer Regulation Review sets out the Regulator of Social Housing's approach to consumer regulation and the key lessons learned.
Share your views to shape a new building safety competence framework. BSI, sponsored by MHCLG, is seeking input from housing associations and other stakeholders to develop an overarching competence framework for everyone working on higher-risk buildings.
Competence for roles in the new regulatory system. The Competence Steering Group (CSG) published its final report, setting out a framework to improve the competence of those working on higher-risk buildings.
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.
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.
Coronavirus. Responding to coronavirus remains the top priority for housing associations around the country as they work hard to provide services and support for their residents.
Coronavirus testing . Updates about all types of coronavirus testing.
Social Housing Regulation Bill update. Find out the latest update on the Social Housing Regulation Bill as it continues its passage through Parliament in the House of Lords.
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.
NHF signs joint letter calling on greater support for low-income families . The NHF joined over 20 other organisations from across the social housing sector in signing a letter to the Prime Minister calling for urgent support to help low-income families facing soaring energy bills amid the cost-of-living crisis.
No Homeless Veterans campaign webinar. This webinar provides an overview of the No Homeless Veterans Campaign and reviews the obstacles some veterans face in accessing social housing.
New board member induction webinar – October 2022. This webinar provides an overview of the important role of board members in social housing and reviews the NHF’s offer to support housing association board members.
National Supported and Older Persons’ Housing Network . Our National Supported and Older Persons’ Housing Network is a space for you to find out the latest updates, share best practice and insights on the key supported housing issues that matter to your organisation the most.
Update from the Housing Ombudsman. In light of the coronavirus outbreak, the Housing Ombudsman has issued an update for landlords that are part of the scheme.
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.
Introducing Thinkhouse: more than just blue sky thinking? Thinkhouse highlights the best analysis and thinking about housing to help in your board member role
Understanding the experiences of LGBTQ+ Veterans. The government is seeking views from individuals and organisations on the impact of the pre-2000 ban on homosexuality in the Armed Forces. Lee Buss-Blair reflects on his own journey and explains why it is important that LGBTQ+ Veterans experiencing homelessness are able to contribute to this process.
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.
Meet the new chairs of the NHF’s EDI in Housing member group. The NHF’s equality, diversity and inclusion in Housing member group has appointed Victor da Cunha as its new chair and Ijay Onyechi, as its new vice chair both starting in October.
Our response to the compulsory vaccine consultation. The government recently ran a consultation on making vaccination a condition of deployment in older adult care homes. Read our response.
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.
Easing lockdown case study: Radian repairs. In this video, Peter Hall, Interim Director of Commercial Services at Radian, shares Radian's approach to repairs and maintenance as lockdown eases.
Safety checks and coronavirus. The coronavirus outbreak is presenting a number of challenges for our members in terms of carrying out statutory safety checks.
Brexit: an update for housing associations. A update on Brexit taking into account the changed political environment.
Ongoing coronavirus restrictions. We’ve summarised the key measures introduced as part of lockdown which will remain as restrictions are eased, along with how they may affect housing associations and their residents.
Coronavirus tier system: what it means for housing associations. As England returns to a tiered system of coronavirus restrictions, we've set our what it means for housing associations in all four tiers.
How can housing associations chart a course out of this crisis? At the NHF, we’re developing a project to understand and shape the next few months, and years, as the country emerges from the coronavirus crisis.
Approved Document B. Read the NHF submission to the government’s consultation on fire safety guidance.
Building safety for board members. This update for housing association board members gives an overview of the key building safety issues facing the sector.
Building a safer future consultation response. The government has proposed a fundamental reform of the building regulatory system, as outlined in the Building a Safer Future consultation.
National Housing Federation responds to the Government consultation on building safety. Today, Victoria Moffett, Grenfell Programme Lead at the National Housing Federation issued a response to the Government consultation on building safety published on behalf of the organisation.
New 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.
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.
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.
Implementing the new building control regime for higher-risk buildings consultation – member briefing. The government is consulting on proposals to introduce a new, more stringent regulatory regime for higher-risk buildings. This briefing covers the consultation on policy proposals for the construction phase for buildings in scope of the new regime.
In-occupation regime for occupied higher-risk buildings consultation – member briefing. The government is consulting on proposals to introduce a new, more stringent regulatory regime for higher-risk buildings. This briefing covers the consultation on the policy proposals for the in-occupation phase for higher-risk buildings in scope of the new regime.
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.
Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund - Wave 2 briefing. In our latest briefing session, members have the opportunity to learn more about wave two of the SHDF. This includes reviewing the latest guidance released by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to help kick-start your organisation’s retrofit project.
Supply survey. We’re collecting information from housing associations on the number of homes they have started and completed. See our latest results on this page.
Building new homes. We’re working with housing associations and the Government to increase the number of new homes the sector is building.
Social housing rent cap consultation webinar . This webinar reviews the government’s rent cap consultation proposals and provides insights on the impact of the proposals on our members and residents.
Kerslake Commission progress report published. The report assesses the impact of recent announcements and events on efforts to end rough sleeping.
Four things I learnt at the National Housing Summit 2022. Policy Assistant Ewan Fulford reflects on key lessons from the National Housing Summit 2022.
Long-term funding of adult social care. The report contains recommendations for government around housing and planning, and health, care and housing integration.
Clarification of Approved Document B consultation. Read our response to the government’s consultation on the clarification of Approved Document B (ADB) of the Building Regulations.
Our response to today’s announcements on building safety. Housing associations have already started removing combustible cladding from buildings under the 18-metre threshold, based on a broader assessment of risk. We therefore welcome the government’s proposals to apply a risk-based approach to evaluating building safety – something which we have been calling for.
Five updates on building and fire safety. This includes an update on the new government testing programme on other types of cladding.
Emergency funding for homelessness providers. See all the latest information on funding for homelessness providers on this page. Please check back for updates.
Housing people in urgent need. Download resources on providing housing for domestic abuse survivors and rough sleepers.
4 in 5 social tenants struggle to pay for essentials on Universal Credit. A recent NHF survey examining claimants' experiences of claiming Universal Credit during the pandemic shows that 4 in 5 social tenants struggle to pay for essentials, including food, on Universal Credit.
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.
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.
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.
Government review of the Homelessness Reduction Act . The government has published its response to submissions to its call for evidence on the Homelessness Act 2017.
Domestic abuse and coronavirus – guidelines for keeping residents safe. The government advice to stay at home presents a whole new set of challenges for residents experiencing domestic abuse.
Consultation on the impacts of joint tenancies on victims of domestic abuse - our response. Read our submission response to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities' Consultation on the impacts of joint tenancies on victims of domestic abuse.
Household Support Fund launched. The Household Support Fund has been doubled to £1bn in an effort to assist families with the cost of living.
Reforming the private rented sector inquiry – our response. Whilst most of the reforms laid out in the white paper are targeted at private landlords, there are significant areas that affect housing associations.
Reflecting the diverse communities we serve in rural housing. Wendy Evans – Hendrick, Chief Executive of Orwell Housing explains the importance of rural housing associations prioritising EDI to drive progress and represent the diverse communities our sector serves.
Regulator publishes final tenant satisfaction measures. Read our summary reviewing the Regulator of Social Housing's final published Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs).
Preparing for the Social Housing Regulation Bill webinar. The latest on the Social Housing Regulation Bill and the government's plans to improve the regulation of social housing, strengthen the rights of tenants and ensure better quality and safer homes.
NHF responds to Homelessness Prevention Grant Consultation. Read our response to the government's Homelessness Prevention Grant Consultation.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms mandatory from October 2022. Eddie Hughes MP has once again written with an update on new smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements.
NHF response to the Chancellor’s Mini - Budget 2022. Read our response to the Chancellor’s Mini-Budget 2022 tackling the cost of living crisis.
New system of oversight: what will it mean for supported and sheltered housing webinar. This webinar gives members a chance to find out more about the impact of the government's new system of oversight on supported housing.
What to do about hard to decarbonise homes - findings from our research. This webinar examines why some are harder to decarbonise than others.
Changes to asymptomatic Covid-19 testing for social care staff. The Department of Health and Social Care has announced that routine asymptomatic testing has been paused for staff, visitors and visiting professionals in all adult social care settings. Testing of symptomatic cases for residents, patients and staff will continue in extra care, supported living and adult social care settings.
Flooding toolkit. Case studies, timelines, template packs and top tips to help manage in the event of a flood.
Higher risk groups will be offered covid-19 booster this autumn. The NHS has announced plans to offer a covid-19 booster vaccination to select groups this autumn.
We want to fix flaws in Universal Credit. We’ve joined the other UK housing federations, Community Housing Cymru, Scottish Federation of Housing Associations and Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations to lobby the government for changes to the system.
The operational challenges of rolling out the new shared ownership model webinar. This webinar explores the operational challenges for housing associations when it comes to rolling out the new shared ownership model.
Equality, diversity and inclusion in smaller housing associations webinar. This webinar reviews how smaller housing associations can improve EDI with your organisation including some of the challenges and opportunities.
A statement from NHF Chief Executive on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. A statement from Katie Henderson, NHF Chief Executive on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Building homes for an aging population. The Older Person’s Housing Group are a cross-organisational group from social housing providers across the country that are dedicated to working together to break down barriers and build these much needed homes.
Let’s work together to understand the challenges facing supported housing. Andy Carberry, Director of Care and Support at Regenda Housing, shares the results of a benchmarking project.
Our response to the government’s updated strategy on rough sleeping. Read our response to the government’s updated strategy on rough sleeping.
Closing EDI data gaps – what we need to know and what we don’t know. Bekah Ryder, Research Lead, NHF reviews the importance of housing addressing EDI data gaps in order to create a diverse workforce representative of the communities we serve.
Improving disabled people’s access to let residential premises – our response to the new consultation. We've responded to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities consultation on proposals that would require landlords to make reasonable adjustments to the common parts of let residential premises when requested by a disabled person.
What do the regulatory changes in social housing mean for our sector? Find out the impact of the government’s recent regulatory changes for housing associations.
Together with Tenants case studies. Here you'll find examples of best practice and innovative approaches to implementing the Together with Tenants charter.
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.
Our response to DLUHC Committee report on social housing regulation. Read our response to the Departement of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (LUHC) Select Committee report on social housing regulation.
We must not lose momentum on equality, diversity and inclusion in social housing. Colette McKune reflects on her time as chair of the NHF's EDI in Housing member group and the importance of our sector keeping up momentum going into the future.
Proposed changes to the 2023 Statistical Data Return. The Regulator of Social Housing is consulting on proposed changes to the Statistical Data Return, to be implemented in the 2023 data collection.
National Smaller Housing Association Network. Our National Smaller Housing Associations Network is a space for you to hear the latest updates, share best practice and insights on the key housing issues that matter most to your organisation.
Autumn 2022 covid-19 booster programme. The DHSC are seeking to optimise protection for those most at risk of severe illness ahead of the winter, including some housing association staff.
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.
Decarbonisation chairs meeting recording. This webinar on decarbonisation for housing association chairs shares the latest policy updates including an update on Wave 2 of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and best practice from across the sector.
Here’s what we need from the next Prime Minister to deliver decarbonisation in social housing. Both Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak have committed to reaching net zero by 2050 but are yet to provide further detail on these commitments.
Decarbonising heritage and traditional homes. Heritage homes are those which have special considerations under the planning system, due to the character and historic interest attached to the building. Here is key information and guidance for retrofitting heritage and traditional homes.
Learning from our disability pay gap analysis at Evolve Housing + Support. Evolve have reviewed the key lessons learned from conducting their first disability pay gap to further understand how they can improve the representation of disabled staff and create a more inclusive organisation.
How will Renters Reform affect housing associations? Our briefing outlines what the changes to possession grounds and tenancy laws proposed in the white paper on Renters Reform mean for housing associations.
Raising accessibility standards for new homes – briefing for housing associations. Changes to planning legislation would mean all new homes will be required to have step-free access to all entrance level rooms and facilities.
Service charges and rentcharges: a guide for social housing landlords (6th edition).
How housing associations can support veterans this Remembrance Day. Securing long-term funding and creating armed forces-friendly work places are key to ensuring veterans are supported by housing associations.
Driving racial equality at South Yorkshire Housing Association. Mulima Muyunda, Race and Diversity Lead at SYHA explores how the creation of a Race Action Plan is helping to drive measurable and tangible change for racial equality.
New recommendations on the quality and regulation of social housing. Read our summary of the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (LUHC) Select Committee report on social housing regulation.
Tackling loneliness and social isolation for LGBT+ older people. Re-engage have launched ‘rainbow call companions’, a free telephone befriending service for LGBT+ older people created to help tackle loneliness and social isolation.
Short survey about your decarbonisation strategy. Affordable housing aggregator the Housing Finance Corporation (THFC) is gathering data on the decarbonisation plans and costs for housing associations, as part of their lobbying for a guaranteed funding solution.
De-risking sites and preparing them for MMC before it’s too late webinar. This webinar is focused on the use of modern methods of construction (MMC) in social housing.
Building safety resident engagement webinar. This webinar is focused on building safety resident engagement strategies and how our members can adopt good practice from across the sector.
Rural housing. We’re supporting housing associations to invest in rural homes and communities.
Driving resident engagement at Salix Homes. Find out how Salix Homes have adopted Together with Tenants to transform their engagement with residents led by the creation of a Customer Committee and Customer Charter. This has strengthened their commitment towards putting customers at the heart of how they operate.
Acis Group’s Together with Tenants action plan. Find out how Acis Group have adopted Together with Tenants to help strengthen relationships with residents as part of a commitment towards improving the homes and services they offer.
Creating a Resident Scrutiny Panel at Radcliffe Housing Society. Find out how North Star Housing have re-shaped adopted Together with Tenants to reshape resident engagement activities to empower residents to get involved in influencing decisions and help shape service delivery.
Reshaping resident engagement at North Star Housing. Find out how North Star Housing have re-shaped adopted Together with Tenants to reshape resident engagement activities to empower residents to get involved in influencing decisions and help shape our service delivery.
Levelling up rural communities. Ever since I was elected as MP for remote, rural, coastal North Devon in 2019, my mission has been to find ways to level up the pockets of severe deprivation in my beautiful constituency.
Four years on from the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower: we must have a regulatory system that’s fit for purpose. Kate Henderson reflects on our continued work with government to shape the new regulatory system to ensure the safety of people in their homes.
As someone who grew up in the country, levelling up rural communities is close to my heart. It’s crucial that 'levelling up' doesn't just focus on regeneration in our towns and cities, but e also unlocks the huge potential of our rural communities.
New research sheds light on decarbonisation of social housing. The UK’s 2050 net zero target relies on eliminating carbon emissions from all homes, including social homes, over the next 30 years. A new survey finds that the housing sector is well underway but that challenges remain.
Home Truths: what does housing in your local area really look like? Find out more about how our updated tool can be used to highlight differences in house prices, rent and more, across the country.
What are housing associations doing to help prevent homelessness? . Published in collaboration with CIH and Homes for Cathy, these case studies shine a light on the work housing associations continue to play in tackling homelessness.
Rural homelessness: England's hidden crisis. This recorded discussion brings together experts from universities, housing associations and charities to explore how we can work together to better support service users and drive down rural homelessness.
DLUHC are addressing issues with access to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) data for housing association homes. EPC data is held by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and access is important for planning retrofit work and bidding into the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.
VAT reliefs for decarbonisation works . VAT on energy saving materials will be reduced from 5% to 0% from April 2022 to April 2027, although there are practical questions which arise as a result of trying to maximise these reliefs.
Changes and challenges to partial exemption special methods. There have been recent examples where applications to update a partial exemption special method have been rejected by HMRC, even when the areas of concern for HMRC in the current applications were previously approved.
Understanding your defined benefit pension obligations as an employer. Short term high inflation is likely to mean that the next actual pension increase applied to benefits currently being paid, as well as those in deferment, will be higher than currently built into valuation assumptions.
How housing associations can support their employees with the cost of living crisis. Isio have identified some easy actions a housing association can implement to help employees in these challenging times.
Creating safe spaces for the young and homeless in the LGBTQ+ community. Find out how Centrepoint provides homeless young LGBTQ+ people with accommodation, health support and life skills in order to get them back into education, training and employment.
The critical shortage of housing is stopping councils acting earlier to prevent homelessness . Francesca Albanese, Head of Research and Evaluation at Crisis, reflects on the success of the Homelessness Reduction Act and asks what more needs to be done to support those facing homelessness.
Celebrating 50 years of Pride at Stonewall Housing. Tina Wathern, Director of Education and Engagement from Stonewall Housing reflects on their impact on the Pride movement over the past 50 years and outlines the future ahead.
Why we stand with refugees this Refugee Week. Fuad Mahamed, Chief Executive Officer of ACH reflects on why we must continue to support refugees and provide opportunities for people to thrive in the UK.
What does the Renters' Reform Bill mean for supported housing? The government has published new proposals on reform of tenure, including the abolition of section 21 ‘no fault’ repossession of property.
Independent panel on quality in housing association homes . While most housing association homes are of high quality, we know that some of our homes and services are falling short of the high standards that we expect and that our residents deserve.
Honouring the Windrush generation for their contributions to Britain. Read a blog from Olive Jones, Director of People, NHF which marks Windrush Day 2022 and the 74th anniversary since the Windrush generation arrived in the UK.
Smaller housing associations and the road to zero carbon. This webinar explores some of the issues raised in a new briefing on decarbonisation for smaller housing associations, including the support and funding available to help smaller housing associations on the road to net zero.
This Refugee Week we can all play our part and help those arriving in our communities to heal. Part of the trauma of a refugee experience is the loss of your home; part of the healing, therefore, must be securing a safe home in order to build a new life.
Celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. Boris Worrall, Chief Executive of Rooftop Housing and Chair of the National Advisory Panel on Gypsy Traveller Housing reviews the progress made in housing for the Gypsy and Traveller community.
Carers Week 2022 - coming out from behind the scenes. Natalie Quilter, Diversity Inclusion and Wellbeing Lead at Notting Hil Genesis opens up about her personal story as an unpaid carer.
Right to Buy - our response. Read our response to the government's announcement on the Right to Buy scheme.
Removing the invisibility of adult social care. The NHF submitted a response to the House of Lords Adult Social Care Committee’s call for evidence as part of their inquiry ‘Lifting the veil: Removing the invisibility of adult social care’.
Independent panel set up to tackle poor-quality homes. The National Housing Federation and Chartered Institute for Housing will set up an independent panel to make urgent recommendations for tackling poor quality housing in the sector.
The Social Housing Regulation Bill - our response. Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the NHF responds to the recently published Social Housing Regulation Bill.
Cost of living support announced . On Thursday, the government announced a £15bn package implementing a number of measures to provide support to millions of households across the UK struggling with the rising cost of living.
Top tips on how to become a Disability Confident employer. Watch a video from Kathryn Jones, Diversity and Inclusion Lead from Aster Group who shares some tips on how to become a Disability Confident employer and help to create a more inclusive social housing sector.
Supported housing and young people webinar. This webinar explores how housing associations can use supported housing to support young people with skills, training and employment opportunities.
What did we learn from Climate and Sustainability in Housing 2022? Ewan Fulford from our Policy team rounds up of the key themes and messages from Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2022.
Commencement of the Fire Safety Act 2021. The Fire Safety Act 2021 was implemented on 16 May 2022 and the regulations arising from it were laid before Parliament on 18 May. We've summarised the Act and the regulations, and clarified some of the main points.
Working in partnership with residents to deliver Together with Tenants. This webinar shares good examples of how housing associations have adopted Together with Tenants to work with residents to drive real change and improve trust and accountability.
Clarifying consent for the Commitment to Refer . We have updated the Commitment to Refer guidelines to clarify the process around consent.
The Queen's speech 2022: our response. We've summarised the key information for housing associations from the state opening of Parliament.
Phase two of the No Homeless Veterans campaign launched. Today at the House of Lords, we joined organisations from the housing and homelessness sector, Armed Forces charities, MPs from all parties, and local authority leaders to launch a new phase of a campaign to end homelessness among Armed Forces veterans.
Consultation on local connection requirements for victims of domestic abuse – our response. Read the National Domestic Abuse Group's response to the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities' Consultation on local connection requirements for social housing for victims of domestic abuse.
NHF response to the Infrastructure Levy under the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. We welcome the publication of the Bill and look forward to working with the government to ensure the supply of affordable housing is protected.
Code of conduct 2022. The NHF’s Code of Conduct sets out standards for housing associations that are members of the NHF.
Code of Conduct for smaller housing associations. This is the latest in a new series of webinars focused on governance specifically for smaller housing associations.
NHF response to the Queen's Speech. We look forward to working with the government to ensure social housing residents are always listened to and strengthen their rights through implementing the Social Housing Regulation Bill.
Building Safety Act. The Building Safety Bill has received Royal Assent, and the new Act will bring into force a number of measures intended to make buildings and residents safe, and protect leaseholders from building safety costs.
Social housing residents must not pay the price of the energy crisis. The energy crisis and cost of living increases are causing severe financial difficulties for many housing association residents, and are also driving up costs for housing associations themselves.
Changing culture and leadership with Together with Tenants. Angela Gascoigne, Chief Executive of SHAL Housing explores the importance of changing culture and leadership for housing associations to successfully adopt Together with Tenants.
Temporary pause on energy usage deductions from benefits . In light of the significant increase in energy bills, the Department for Work and Pensions has written to UK energy suppliers about plans to temporarily pause requests to pay for ongoing energy usage from benefits from 1 April.
Why the NHF Code of Conduct still matters. James Tickell, Partner at Campbell Tickell, explains why the launch of the NHF's updated Code of Conduct is more important than ever at a time when the sector is under scrutiny.
Statement on Right to Buy. NHF Chief Executive Kate Henderson reacts to recent news that the government may be considering reviving the Right to Buy scheme.
New money guidance from Money and Pensions Service. The guidance focusses on people who have not yet missed payments on their bills or credit obligations, but are at risk of doing so.
Becoming a truly disability confident employer. This webinar explores how housing associations can become Disability Confident employers attracting new talent and embedding accessible and inclusive ways of working.
Universal Credit and rent arrears - April 2022. We wanted to understand how people were managing day-to-day living costs and the financial stability of the sector, as well as how the Universal Credit system has coped throughout the coronavirus crisis.
Government grants available for electric vehicle chargepoints. £350 is available for each parking space provided with a chargepoint socket, with up to 200 grants available per year per landlord.
Coronavirus arrears report ‘Going freestyle: what happens when the rulebook is taken away’ . The NHF has jointly published a new report with Placeshapers and whg on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on rent arrears approaches at social landlords.
Papworth Trust - Becoming a Disability Confident employer. Read a case study from Papworth Trust about their journey to becoming a Disability Confident employer as part of a commitment to support existing employees and ensure recruitment processes are accessible and supportive for disabled applicants.
This Earth Day, we examine the latest developments in climate policy and what it means for social housing. Policy Officer Rory Hughes summarises the recent developments for the UK and for housing associations in the field of sustainability and decarbonisation.
Housing homeless families. With historically numbers of homeless families currently living in temporary accommodation, we wanted to better understand how social housing is allocated to homeless families.
What speaking to recently homeless families made me realise about allocating homes. Research Lead at the NHF, Bekah Ryder, explores what talking to recently homeless families for the recently published 'Housing homeless families' taught her about the process of allocating homes.
Update on government negotiations with developers. Michael Gove, has provided an update on his negotiations with developers around ensuring that those responsible for the building safety crisis pay to fix it.
Affordable home ownership. As well as providing rented homes that people on low incomes can afford, housing associations also offer a range of homes for people priced out of traditional home ownership.
Shared ownership. Housing associations have built and sold 103,000 shared ownership homes in the last decade, and plan to meet the growing demand for this product.
First Homes. The government has introduced a new affordable home ownership product to the market – First Homes. These are new properties which are sold for a discount of at least 30% below market value to first time buyers.
Voluntary Right to Buy. The government has committed to extending the Right to Buy policy, which allows council tenants to buy their home at a discount, to housing association tenants. As this scheme is not legislated, it is called Voluntary Right to Buy.
New Disabled Facilities Grant guidance. The government has produced new guidance on the delivery of the Disabled Facilities Grant for adaptations to serve the needs of older and disabled people.
UK Covid-19 Inquiry. The government has published a draft Terms of Reference for its inquiry into the UK's preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Update on Gazprom and contracts with Russian-owned suppliers. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, housing associations have been reconsidering their contracts with Russian-owned businesses, particularly Gazprom Energy.
What’s next for Together with Tenants? Catherine Ryder, Director of Policy and Research, NHF provides a progress update on our Together with Tenants initiative helping to strengthen relationships between housing associations and residents.
Our response to the Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation consultation. Biodiversity Net Gain will apply to developers seeking planning permission for development and will require that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were in prior to development.
Latest regarding decarbonisation and the ongoing energy crisis. There have been a number of government announcements recently that will impact housing associations.
ogether with Tenants Ambassadors. A list of our Together with Tenants Ambassadors.
Joint letter to the Secretary of State (BEIS) about the decarbonisation of homes. We have joined NatWest and others who signed a letter to the Secretary of State Kwasi Kwarteng MP detailing measures the government should take now to ensure we can deliver energy efficiency this decade.
Becoming a Disability Confident housing association. Sarah Miller, Chief Executive of Papworth Trust reviews how housing associations can become Disability Confident organisations.
Our response to the government’s announcement on social housing regulation. Read our response to the government's latest announcement on the Social Housing Regulation Bill.
Smaller housing associations and the road to zero carbon. This briefing explores the policy context and challenges raised by our smaller members and outlines the support the we can provide on the road to zero carbon.
The energy crisis: how it’s affecting residents and housing associations . Housing associations are doing all they can to help mitigate the impact of energy price rises on tenants and leaseholders.
New measures on building safety remediation costs. The government has announced new measures to protect leaseholders from paying for building safety remediation costs and ensure that those responsible pay.
Homes for Ukraine. An update on housing association's efforts to support refugees.
The NHF joins the sector in calls to help young victims of sexual assault access housing . Solace, the women’s aid organisation, have written to HM Treasury to demand they do more to protect victims of sexual assault aged under 35.
NHF response to Spring Statement 2022. Our response to the Spring Statement 2022
NICE guide on integrated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Centre for Homelessness Impact have jointly published a guideline on ways to improve access to and engagement with health and social care services for people experiencing homelessness.
DLUHC announce intention to introduce new package of oversight for supported housing . The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has published a Written Ministerial Statement. The statement concerns the quality and regulation of supported housing.
The energy crisis and communal heating systems – feedback required . The NHF is discussing with the government and consumer organisations how best to help tenants with fuel costs given anticipated price rises.
Recruitment and retention – how do we address the staffing crisis in the care and support sector? In response to our members highlighting the issue of recruitment and retention in the care and supported housing sector, we held two member roundtables in February.
Celebrating women in social housing. Lucy Malarkey, Managing Director of WISH celebrates the contribution of women working in social housing as part of Women's History Month 2022.
Funding to strengthen local partnerships to prevent and end rough sleeping. The prospectus for the DLUHC Voluntary and Community Frontline Sector Support Grant is now live. Applications for the four separate lines of the fund are due by 1 April.
Exploring the link between supported housing and improved health and wellbeing. Two member groups are collaborating to commission external research into the impact of supported housing on homeless prevention and improving the health and wellbeing of customers.
Learning and improvement from resident complaints – annual reporting requirements clarification.
2022 FRS102 reporting.
Upcoming Local Government Pension Scheme valuation – 31 March. The next Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) valuation takes place at the end of this month, 31 March 2022, with changes to employer contribution rates implemented from 1 April 2023.
Housing associations in 2022: a strategic review. Read our strategic review report setting out key findings into the long term future of the housing association sector.
Tax Incentives for decarbonisation.
Employment tax checklist for hybrid working.
Common mistakes in Stamp Duty Land Tax returns.
Decarbonisation and lending – housing roundtable. In February 2022, we hosted a roundtable to discuss housing associations’ capacity to invest in decarbonising and improving the energy efficiency of their stock.
Committee report stresses impact of building safety costs on the delivery of affordable homes. The levelling up, housing and communities committee has published a new report on cladding and remediation.
NHF response to committee report on building safety remediation and funding. Read our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee's report on building safety remediation and funding.
Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation consultation briefing. This briefing explores the questions and proposals set out in the government’s Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations and Implementation, published on 11 January 2022.
No Homeless Veterans campaign: survey responses needed. The NHF is working to deliver the second stage of the No Homeless Veterans campaign alongside Homeless Link.
Our response to the tenant satisfaction measures consultation. Read our response to the Regulator of Social Housing's tenant satisfaction measures consultation.
Department for Work and Pension announcement on annual rent changes. The Department for Work and Pensions confirmed earlier this month that all 2022 annual rent changes would be subject to verification by landlords on the Universal Credit portal this year.
Living with Covid plan announced. The Prime Minister has announced an end to all remaining coronavirus restrictions in England.
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.
Consultation on new tenant satisfaction measures webinar. In this webinar hear from Kate Dodsworth, Director of Consumer Regulation from The Regulator of Social Housing who reviews the consultation on the new tenant satisfaction measures and explains what they will mean for housing associations.
Consultation to revoke compulsory vaccinations for health and social care staff. On 31 January 2022, the government announced its intention to revoke the regulations that made vaccination a condition of deployment for health and social care staff.
Zero carbon homes: tech we can trust. Electric heat pumps are likely to be the dominant solution to how we green our homes but many questions remain.
Levelling Up White Paper - briefing for housing associations . The government has published their much-anticipated Levelling Up White Paper, setting out a large programme of work which aims to tackle geographical disparities across England.
Bidding open for next round of Rough Sleeping Accommodation Programme funding. Councils and their partners have until midday on 13 April 2022 to submit their co-produced proposals for the next round of Rough Sleeping Accommodation Programme (RSAP) funding.
Housing First. Housing First is an approach to ending homelessness through housing and support provision.
Rough sleeping . Housing associations have a key part to play in resolving rough sleeping through accommodation and prevention.
What does the Levelling Up White Paper mean for housing associations? The Levelling Up White Paper has now been published, find out what it means for housing associations.
Without more support, the cost of remediating fire safety issues will be felt by those who can least afford it. Housing associations are committed to making homes safe for residents, but absorbing the costs can mean they have to delay other urgent work.
New domestic abuse guidance published. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have recently updated two pieces of guidance in relation to supporting victims of domestic abuse.
How to be a trans ally? To celebrate Pride Month Joanne Lockwood, Associate, HDN shares her top tips on how to become a trans ally. Watch the video and learn more.
Effective complaint handling webinar. This webinar promotes and shares good practices on complaint handling helping housing associations explore effective processes and procedures that can be implemented to resolve complaints swiftly.
Not just because it’s right, but because it’s necessary to be better. Board member Nick Yandle explains how our board level equality, diversity and inclusion group is aiming to tackle some big challenges in the sector.
What will 2022 hold for our decarbonisation work? As the energy crisis continues, our work on decarbonisation has a renewed sense of urgency, so it is worth recapping where we have come from and where it is going in the next few months.
Help your council shape their rough sleeping funding plans before 25 February . Local authorities are currently developing plans that will shape homelessness services for the next three years. Housing associations can, and should engage now to share best practice and help shape those services.
Domestic abuse and joint tenancies. During this webinar we discuss perpetrator management and good practice related to joint tenancies, and ensuring work with perpetrators does not come to a cost to the victim of domestic abuse.
Social housing’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in 2022. Find out how housing associations can drive change in EDI this year by setting New Year’s resolutions using the key recommendations from our EDI report.
Equality, diversity and inclusion data regional breakdown. The NHF has published regional breakdowns of the data for housing associations to review and act on following the launch of our national equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) report.
National Asset Management Network. Share practice, insights and policy updates and hear from guest speakers on the issues that matter most to you.
Building a Safer Future Charter: changing culture and reducing risk webinar. In this webinar, MHS Homes and Kier Group share their insights on why they signed up to become Building a Safer Future Charter Champions and how it has helped their organisations.
Finance Demystified.
Raising awareness of disability in the workplace. Watch Gemma Waddington’s Vlog and learn about her personal journey leading to the creation of a diversity and inclusion group called Don’t Dis my Ability at The Hyde Group.
Supported housing: staff shortages and new testing rules. The advice for health and social care staff on testing has changed.
Future Homes Standard – interim uplift information. In December 2021, the government implemented the interim uplift to building regulations and published new Approved Documents.
Why some of the answers to the social care staffing crisis lie locally. Sector leaders are reporting that staff shortages across all services are the worst they have ever known.
Phasing out the installation of fossil fuel heating in homes off the gas grid - consultation response. The government is seeking views on proposals to phase out the installation of fossil fuel heating systems in homes off the gas grid - read the NHF response.
Plan B guidance – what has changed and what it means for housing associations. In early December, the government announced the implementation of its Plan B for containing and managing the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus in England.
How can housing associations best help people off the street and into a long term home? . In the last year, the number of rough sleepers has fallen dramatically in London and across England. What made this radical change possible and, more importantly, how can we keep the momentum going and end rough sleeping for good?
NHF response to building safety announcements. The NHF has responded to an announcement on building safety by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
Tenant satisfaction measures consultation. The Regulator of Social Housing is consulting on a proposed set of tenant satisfaction measures until 3 March 2022.
The Thinkhouse board member blog: will our homes and services stand the test of time? A summary of inspiring reports for board members on delivering high quality homes now and in the future.
What will 2022 look like for social housing? Our mission at the NHF is to understand and anticipate the critical issues affecting the social housing sector - here are some of the key issues on our radar.
New plans to protect and vaccinate rough sleepers. Eddie Hughes MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Rough Sleeping and Housing at DLUHC has issued a letter to local authorities indicating that they should accommodate rough sleepers and connect them with support to receive their coronavirus vaccination.
Exempt accommodation inquiry - call for evidence. Please get in touch with our team by 14 January if you would like to share your views.
Our response to the call for evidence on the regulation of social housing. Read our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee's call for evidence on The Regulation of Social Housing.
NHF joins steering group to examine rural homelessness . Chaired by English Rural Housing Association, this will be a 12 month collaboration between Kent and Southampton University and several leading homelessness and rural charities, including HomelessLink, the Trussell Trust and the NHF.
Developing a Building Safety Case briefing. Our briefing helps members to begin putting together their Building Safety Cases, and prepare for the new building safety regulations.
Overseeing standards, quality and value for money in supported housing: what should be done? This webinar explores current supported housing pilots aimed at improving the quality, enforcement, oversight and value for money in supported housing. We also review the remedies for the poor quality provision and discuss the lessons learned from the experience of Prospect Housing in trying to improve standards.
How partnerships can help housing associations to tackle homelessness . As the Homelessness Lead for Bromford my role is deliver on our strategic goal ‘We want to improve social justice and play our part in reducing homelessness in our big four areas’.
People in housing need 2021. Our People in housing need report looks at the full extent of the housing crisis in England, including how different housing issues affect people across tenures and regions.
People in housing need. Published annually, People in housing need gives the best estimate of housing need in England.
The regulatory landscape for smaller housing associations . Discusses the current regulatory landscape for smaller housing associations and the implications of the Social Housing White Paper leaders, boards and tenants and residents.
Tackling domestic abuse at Octavia Housing. Elizabeth Rowland, Housing Services Manager at Octavia Housing explains how they've got involved in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign to tackle domestic abuse.
How diverse is the housing association workforce in England? This report presents the findings of the first ever national picture of EDI within the housing association workforce in England. We have EDI data from 174 organisations, representing 71% of homes owned by housing associations in England.
Considerations on rent.
Social Housing Pension Scheme valuation results – next steps for housing associations. The Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS) 2020 valuation results were published in August 2021. With a significant increase in contributions due from April 2022, we consider what the results might mean for your organisation more widely and the steps you can take to review your pension strategy and form your longer term response.
Local Government Pension Scheme – what to consider when managing risk. Recent developments in Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) legislation, mean employers may have more options for managing assets and liabilities in their fund, from closure, to future accrual.
Tackling equality, diversity and inclusion in housing. A preview of the NHF'S Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Housing event on 9 December bringing together leaders from across the social housing sector to reveal the results from the first national picture of the diversity of the housing association workforce in England.
Social housing recognised in new Social Care White Paper. The NHF has welcomed the government’s launch of a wide ranging 10 year vision for Social Care, People at the Heart of Care.
Updated coronavirus guidance for supported living. The government has updated its coronavirus guidance for staff and service users in supported living settings in a number of areas.
Our response to the government's Social Care White Paper. Catherine Ryder, Director of Policy and Research at the NHF responds to the government's Social Care White Paper released today.
Resources to support communications with residents and staff about coronavirus. We’ve summarised some of the resources available from the government that housing associations can use to support their communications with residents and staff about coronavirus.
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.
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.
Government announce extension of compulsory vaccinations to health and wider social care settings. Following public consultation on the issue, the government has announced its decision on the proposal to extend the requirement for compulsory vaccinations as a condition of deployment to health and wider social care settings.
How we’re promoting open and fair board recruitment at ForHousing. ForHousing has welcomed five new members to its board, including a new chair. Colette McKune (MBE), Chief Executive of ForHousing and Chair of the NHF’s EDI in Housing Group outlines the approach they have taken to ensure diversity in skills and background.
SPEI Agreements for the Building Safety Fund: a short guide. Subsidy Control rules apply to the Building Safety Fund. Registered providers can receive this funding via the Services of Public Economic Interest (SPEI) rules.
How can housing associations improve health and financial wellbeing through the winter and beyond? As winter approaches, and furlough and the £20 uplift in benefits end, this webinar looked at the role of housing associations in promoting health and wellbeing alongside supporting communities facing fuel poverty and financial inclusion.
Exemptions under the Residential Property Developer Tax. Following our calls for an exemption, the government have announced that the Residential Property Developer Tax will not be payable by non-profit registered providers of social housing and their wholly owned subsidiary companies.
Update on the Building Safety Levy call for exemption. We've summarised what the Building Safety Levy could mean for housing associations and the need for a sector-wide exemption to be introduced.
What we learned from Michael Gove’s Select Committee appearance . Find out what the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities had to say about levelling up, planning, social housing and building safety.
Heat and buildings strategy - briefing for housing associations. The Heat and buildings strategy sets out how the government plans to eliminate ‘virtually all emissions arising from heating, cooling and energy use in our buildings’.
"Net zero is no small feat but the government and housing associations share the same goals". Blog by Lord Callanan, Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
National matrix of property components 2011.
Depreciation Matrix 2012.
National Governance Network meeting (recorded 19 October 2021). The latest forum outlines the work updating the NHF's code of conduct and gives insight into what is likely to be included in the updated document.
What is the cost of making our homes zero carbon and how can this be funded? This webinar recorded 4 November 2021 features representatives from Savills, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and Turner and Townsend.
Stigma and Social Housing in England report – our response. Read our response to the University of Durham's new report on Stigma and Social Housing in England.
Winter Pressures Funding for rough sleeper accommodation. The government has announced £10m of funding to be spent on accommodation for rough sleepers over winter.
What happened at the Summit Special Edition 2021? Ed Barber, Policy Assistant at the NHF provides a roundup of the key sessions from our National Housing Summit event.
Safety case principles for high-rise residential buildings – our response. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued draft guidance setting out the principles underpinning the Building Safety Case, and Safety Case Report, that will be required for all higher-risk buildings when the Building Safety Bill becomes law. We responded to their consultation on behalf of the social housing sector.
Lessons on responding to damp and mould in homes webinar. This webinar explores how the social housing sector can respond better to damp and mould in their homes and improve residents’ experiences.
A truly flexible model of hybrid working will help us prepare for the next phase of the pandemic. Ruth Cooke, Chief Executive of GreenSquareAccord explains how a flexible model of hybrid working will help organisations prepare for the next phase of the pandemic.
HR, legal and health and safety support for smaller housing associations. A new service of HR, legal and health and safety support for NHF members with fewer than 2,000 properties.
Purple Tuesday – how we’re improving the customer experience for disabled people. Find out from Mike Adams, Chief Executive Officer of Purple how they're using #PurpleTuesday initiative to drive improved customer experience for disabled people.
"The route to decarbonising social housing is finally becoming clearer". Blog by Will Jeffwitz, Head of Policy at the National Housing Federation.
Black History Month interview with Olive Jones, Director of People, National Housing Federation. In this BHM interview, we catch up with Olive Jones, Director of People at NHF.
Planning for the future through our strategic review. Rhys Moore, Executive Director of Public Impact, NHF discusses how the NHF is in the process of crafting our next current business strategy shaped by a strategic review with a focus on what the longer-term future may hold for the social housing sector.
Clarion discuss funding for decarbonisation. Fenland District Council, and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council secured £4.5m funding from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, which we've matched-funded with a further £4.5m investment.
Moat discuss their Energiesprong project. In 2019, Moat launched a five home energy efficiency pilot project in Maldon, Essex modelled on the Dutch Energiesprong energy efficiency initiative.
Best practice (Climate change and sustainability). Here you'll find examples of best practice among housing associations on the journey to decarbonise their homes.
Abri discuss planning and strategy. We’ve assessed our homes to understand how much carbon they are emitting and calculated the costs of retrofitting to make them more energy efficient.
NHF response to the Chancellor's Budget 2021. Today’s budget is a welcome commitment of support in key areas, after a year that has seen families across the country struggling to afford the cost of living.
Local authority Homelessness Prevention Grant increased by £65m to support vulnerable renters. The government has increased the ring-fenced homelessness prevention fund available to local authorities by £65m.
Together with Tenants Progress and Impact Webinar. This webinar shares findings from the study, showcasing areas where Together with Tenants has had an impact and the challenges that have been encountered across different housing associations.
Extension of compulsory vaccinations – our consultation response . The Department of Health and Social Care has been consulting on whether or not the government should extend the existing statutory requirement for those working or volunteering in a care home to be vaccinated against coronavirus to other health and care settings.
What the NHF is doing to encourage partnership working to end homelessness . The NHF is working to provide opportunities for housing associations to learn about partnership working and discuss possible approaches going forwards.
Risk and assurance for smaller housing associations webinar. This webinar explores risk and assurance and will be of most intersest to chairs, board members, chief executives, company secretaries and governance leads within smaller housing associations.
Black History Month Webinar - In Conversation with Louis Julienne. For Black History Month 2021 we sat down with Louis Julienne, co-founder of the Federation of Black Housing Organisations (FBHO) to hear first-hand his story of developing the first black housing strategy.
Response to the Heat and Buildings Strategy. We welcome the commitment of the first part of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, the clear signal that heat pumps are likely to be the primary source of home heat and the commitment to bring down electricity prices.
Housing associations to be made exempt from Residential Property Developer Tax. Following our consultation response and conversations with HM Treasury, updated draft legislation for the Residential Property Developer Tax now includes an exemption for all non-profit groups, including for profit-subsidiaries and joint ventures.
Taking a robust approach to board data. Rose Klemperer, Senior Associate at Penningtons Manches Cooper explains the importance of the social housing sector taking a robust approach to board data to improve governance and better decision making.
Options for achieving net zero webinar. This webinar reviews a key part of the NHF's project on decarbonisation: how can we as a sector navigate our way to net-zero?
We need your response to our latest survey on Universal Credit and income collection. With the end of furlough and the cut to Universal Credit, we are collecting key measures around claimant numbers and income collection, including amount of rent arrears and arrears as a percentage of rent due.
Dispatches from the 2021 party conferences. Kate Henderson reflects on political meetings, party conferences, and the role the sector can play in levelling up, sustainability and achieving net zero.
Signed up to the Commitment to Refer. List of the organisation signed up to the Commitment to Refer.
Could your organisation be doing more to end homelessness? In September, the Kerslake Commission published their report 'A new way of working: ending rough sleeping together'. Ahead of World Homelessness Day, and in response to the report's findings, Vicki McDonald explores what more housing associations could do to prevent homelessness.
Let’s insulate our homes – and our country – from future energy crises. While social housing residents face a perfect storm this winter with the cut to Universal Credit and rocketing energy bills, climate action could help protect them against future energy crises.
Potential challenges to cost sharing exemption arrangements. HMRC have raised concerns around the application of the cost sharing exemption. We've summarised what this might mean for housing associations and what steps they can take.
Celebrating Black History Month 2021. The NHF is celebrating Black History Month 2021 by amplifying the voices and stories of Black colleagues from across the sector and within our own organisation.
Autumn Budget and Spending Review 2021. A summary of our ongoing work and focus for the government's Autumn Budget and Spending Review 2021.
COP26: a briefing for housing associations. Leading up to the United Nations’ annual climate change conference, the UK government has introduced several consequential measures and revised targets that impact housing associations.
What does the reshuffle mean for housing associations? . Our Public Affairs team take a look at what the new reshuffle could mean for social housing.
How many homes did housing associations build last year? Our end of year Supply Data report looks at how many homes the sector built over the last year.
Consultation on PAS 8673 framework for competence of Building Safety Managers: NHF response. We’ve responded to the draft Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 8673 prepared by the British Standards Institution.
Our response to the Kerslake Commission on Rough Sleeping final report. Read our response to the final report from the Commission.
No Place Left Behind: the role housing associations can play in levelling up. Paul Fiddaman, Chief Executive of Karbon Homes, shares his thoughts on the launch of the ‘No Place Left Behind’ commission report.
NHF signs joint letter calling for long-term support funding for Housing First. Along with charities Homeless Link, Crisis and St Mungo’s, the NHF have written to MHCLG asking for an extension to Housing First pilots.
New consultation on extension of compulsory vaccinations . The aim of this consultation from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is to seek views on whether or not the government should extend compulsory vaccinations to other health and care settings.
Compulsory vaccinations for care home staff. All staff directly employed by the care home or employed through an agency, as well as all volunteers, will need to be fully vaccinated with both doses of the vaccine by 11 November.
New board members induction (September 2021). Hear from the NHF, the Regulator of Social Housing, the Chair of WHG and Housemark about what makes a great board member.
Starts at Home: enhancing residents’ wellbeing and relieving pressure on the NHS webinar. Ahead of Starts at Home Day 2021, this webinar explores how supported housing providers stepped up to meet the pressures of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and how they can continue to support their residents’ wellbeing while also working with the NHS.
Social Housing Pension Scheme 2020 valuation results – what they might mean for housing associations. We've summarised the recently announced Social Housing Pension Scheme 2020 valuation results and explored what they might mean for housing associations.
2021 Sector Scorecard to include specific supported housing measures. For the first time the Sector Scorecard includes some measures specifically for supported and social housing providers.
Better Care Fund policy framework published. The Better Care Fund, one of the government’s national vehicles for driving health and social care integration, has published its latest framework.
Preparing for the future of work. James Massey, Strategy Director at MRI Software, highlights some key takeaways from their recent event on the future of work and tech solutions for housing associations.
England’s leaky homes are a greater threat to climate than all of its cars. Our new research shows that England’s 25m homes produce 58.5m tonnes of CO2 every year – the equivalent of the average annual use of 28m cars.
Universal Credit: claiming during the coronavirus pandemic webinar. Findings and recommendations from the largest survey of people living in social housing claiming Universal Credit during the coronavirus pandemic.
How retrofitting homes can reduce both residents’ energy bills and carbon emissions. The work at Platform are doing is a great example of the contribution housing associations can make to meeting the government’s climate change objectives.
How can housing associations’ role as anchor institutions help prevent homelessness? Neil Munslow, Housing Services Manager at Newcastle City Council, explains the key role that social landlords can play in preventing homelessness.
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.
#KeepTheLifeline campaign materials. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation are leading the #KeepTheLifeline campaign stop the £20 per week cut to Universal Credit payments from October. Access materials support the campaign.
Help us build a national picture of diversity in social housing by completing our EDI data tool. Olive Jones, Director of People at the National Housing Federation (NHF) reviews how member housing associations can help us build a national picture of diversity in social housing by completing our EDI data tool.
Simultaneous evacuation: updated guidance from the NFCC. The National Fire Chiefs Council has updated their guidance on simultaneous evacuation in high rise residential buildings, introducing key changes.
NHF releases ethnicity pay gap data for the first time. The National Housing Federation (NHF) has for the first time released data on our ethnicity pay gap, as part of a drive to improve Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across the organisation.
Claiming Universal Credit during the pandemic: what more can housing associations do to help? Justin Freeman, Director of Income Maximisation at ForHousing, explains the importance of involving tenants and hearing about their experiences with Universal Credit in order to make real positive change.
Lessons on tackling discrimination and fostering inclusion within communities (webinar). Webinar discussing how action L&Q is taking to strengthen the voice of residents within housing associations to help tackle discrimination.
Options for homeless individuals needing to self-isolate. MHCLG have provided further advice on options for homeless individuals needing to self-isolate.
How Greater Manchester Housing Providers are getting ready for a post-pandemic world. Yvonne Castle, Chief Executive of Johnnie Johnson Housing, explores why housing is at the heart of coronavirus recovery plans across Greater Manchester.
Universal Credit: claiming during the coronavirus pandemic. Review the findings and recommendations from the largest survey of people living in social housing claiming Universal Credit during the coronavirus pandemic.
New research on adapting allocations policies in response to the coronavirus crisis. We surveyed housing associations on changes to their allocations approach during the pandemic
Government consultation on proposed changes to the Energy Company Obligation . The government is currently consulting on the structure of the forthcoming Energy Company Obligation scheme and the NHF will be responding on behalf of the sector.
Defining net zero for social housing: discussion paper. Read our discussion paper on defining net zero for housing associations and review questions for NHF members to help our decarbonisation work.
Summary of current self-isolation guidance for staff. We’ve summarised the latest information for fully vaccinated health and social care staff and critical workers, including how to contact MHCLG if you think your staff are eligible for exemptions.
All-Party Parliamentary Group on Ending Homelessness report into Housing First rollout. The APPG on Ending Homelessness has launched a report on its inquiry into what is needed to scale up Housing First nationally.
Kerslake Commission on Homelessness and Rough sleeping - interim report published. This report from the Commision - of which the NHF is a part - includes examples of savings brought about by homelessness prevention.
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans consultation: our response. Read our response to the government's consultation on Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans.
Meet the Regulator. Hear about how regulation in the social housing sector works currently and the changes the Social Housing White Paper is introducing.
Meeting the domestic abuse requirements proposed in the social housing white paper. This webinar was organised by our National Domestic Abuse Core Group. It explores the domestic abuse requirements within the social housing white paper and how members can meet these requirements.
Is your organisation meeting the required financial services regulations? Phil Elvy, Executive Director of Finance at Great Places Housing Group, explains why it is important for housing association staff who provide advice to residents on debt or household budgeting to be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority.
The NHF responded to a consultation on changes to audit and corporate governance which will see all housing associations with an income over £100m being classed as Public Interest Entities. The NHF responded to a consultation on changes to audit and corporate governance which will see all housing associations with an income over £100m being classed as Public Interest Entities.
Engaging with your Local Government Pension Scheme Fund - actions for housing associations.
What the upcoming Social Housing Pension Scheme valuations results could mean for housing associations. The Social Housing Pension Scheme funding valuation is due this month. The expected deficit might lead the Pensions Regulator to ask employers to pay more and impact housing associations.
Financial Reporting Council’s Periodic Review of FRS102 and potential change to lease accounting. The Financial Reporting Council is changing accounting rules, impacting the reporting of leases, including tenancies and shared ownership leases.
Modern methods of construction (MMC) for smaller housing associations. Exploring the opportunities for smaller housing associations in using MMC to build new homes.
Tax update: Residential Property Developer Tax. HM Treasury have launched a consultation on the policy design of a Residential Property Developer Tax to be introduced from 1 April 2022.
VAT grouping consultation – no changes expected following sector response. HM Treasury have decided not to consult further on possible changes to UK VAT grouping rules following responses to the recent call for evidence.
Changes to dissolution clause under Model Rules. Following discussions with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the NHF has agreed to update its Model Rules for charitable Registered Providers.
Design and build companies for VAT purposes: the importance of getting it right. We've summarised some of the key issues and areas that must be considered when setting up design and build companies for VAT purposes.
Environmental, Social and Governance reporting – our experiences of early adoption. Chief Financial Officer of Optivo, Sarah Smith, reflects on some of the challenges they've faced in producing their first Environmental, Social and Governance report.
How boards can take the lead on risk and assurance. Author of our new book on risk and assurance, Kelsey Walker, explains the importance for board members to go beyond their traditional financial risk management.
Committed to rural communities. The Rural Housing Alliance share their revised rural pledge and introduce the Parish Councillors’ Guide to Rural Affordable Housing.
Building Safety Bill: initial NHF response. The Building Safety Bill, published on Monday 5 July, sets out the legislation for the new building safety regulatory regime to ensure the safety of people and their homes. Read our initial response and next steps.
Sustainability Strategy Group . Providing strategic steer at a national level for our work on climate change and sustainability, ensuring that our priorities reflect the priorities of the housing association sector.
Non-Executive Director recruitment. Embedding the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion in the board recruitment process.
How are rural housing associations making a long-term commitment to their communities? Today marks the start of Rural Housing Week, our annual campaign that celebrates the vital work that housing associations do in rural areas.
Remedial works, shared owners and sub-letting – taking a sector-wide approach. Read our briefing for housing associations on how the sector could provide greater consistency for shared owners who need to sub-let their homes in buildings awaiting remedial works or EWS1 forms.
Aster Group/LGBTQ+ network. "Ultimately, we hope to provide a working environment in which all employees – and communities – feel truly represented and heard."
Three months into the decarbonisation project - what have we learned? An update on the National Housing Federation's decarbonisation work.
Response to ITV investigation. The NHF’s response to the ITV News housing investigation
Briefing and consultation on NHF Renters’ Reform strategy for supported housing and temporary accommodation. We are seeking feedback from our members on our Renters' Reform strategy.
Diversity on boards: how equality and inclusion in the boardroom can transform an organisation. Hear first-hand from board members who have experienced the impact that improving equality, diversity and inclusion in the boardroom can have on an organisation.
Social Housing White Paper – member briefing and actions for housing associations. Our updated briefing outlines what steps members can take alongside each measure of the Social Housing White Paper.
PAS 9980: Fire risk appraisal and assessment of external wall construction and cladding consultation – our response. We have submitted our response to the government’s consultation on the new code of practice for fire risk appraisal and assessment of external wall construction and cladding of existing blocks of flats.
Why we must all do more to support LGBTQ+ colleagues and customers this Pride month. Steven McIntyre, Chief Executive of Stonewall Housing, reflects on steps we can all take to be more inclusive this Pride month.
Board Appraisal: The importance of honest conversations.
Countering Fraud.
Our response to the Housing Ombudsman’s call for evidence on damp and mould . The Housing Ombudsman has asked for evidence about damp and mould in social housing. This is the response of the National Housing Federation to that call for evidence.
The new model of shared ownership and First Homes – changes to planning policy. The government has provided further details on the new shared ownership model and First Homes programme. We’ve summarised the key information and how this will affect planning policy.
Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) – upcoming regional meetings . DAHA will be holding their regional meetings during June and July.
Harry’s Pledge – the commitment to carers one year on. One year on from the launch of Harry's Pledge, founder Julie Doyle reflects on the progress the sector has made for those who need care and those who provide it.
Equality, diversity and inclusion statement. The National Housing Federation’s mission is to support the housing community across the UK through events, networking and knowledge sharing.
How much does your housing association contribute to the local and national economy? Find out using the updated Local Economic Impact Calculator.
Succession planning and board recruitment for smaller housing associations. The first in a series of webinars delivered as part of our new extra governance support for smaller housing associations explores succession planning and board recruitment.
Together with Tenants: The journey so far, experiences of residents, staff and board members. Residents, housing associations and their board members share insights into their Together with Tenants journey and what we can learn as we take it forward within our own organisations.
Housing Ombudsman report on dealing with cladding complaints. The new report sets out three key lessons for social landlords in dealing with complaints about cladding to ensure that the impact on all residents is recognised.
Queen’s Speech 2021: briefing for housing associations. The Queen’s Speech set out the government’s priorities and legislative agenda for the coming year.
How does lockdown lifting feel to residents in retirement housing? The lockdowns have been particularly difficult for residents living in housing for older people. Find out more about how the roadmap for lifting restrictions is affecting residents.
Launching the first Building Better framework. We're building the biggest aggregated housing association and local authority pipeline for modern methods of construction (MMC).
The impact and response to coronavirus in industrial towns. Chief Executive of Berneslai Homes, Amanda Garrard, reflects on the impact of coronavirus in the Barnsley.
One month in and our new decarbonisation project has hit the ground running. We have been hard at work establishing the infrastructure for the project and want to update you on our work so far.
What does the Queen’s Speech mean for housing? . On Tuesday 11 May, the State Opening of Parliament took place. Find out more about the specific announcements for housing and what they mean for housing associations.
Guidance on possession proceedings and evictions. We’ve summarised changes on evictions and notice periods that will come into force from June 2021
Response to the government’s changes to eviction notice periods . Our response to MHCLG's news release titled 'Support for renters continues with longer notice periods'
NHF response to the Queen's Speech. We look forward to working with the government to ensure social housing residents are always listened to, but hope to see full legislation on the Social Housing White Paper proposals as soon as possible.
Election Update 2021: what the results mean for housing. Melanie Pope, Public Affairs Manager at the National Housing Federation rounds up the key takeaways from the latest elections.
The Sixth Carbon Budget: a briefing for housing associations. This briefing explains what the Sixth Carbon Budget is and the key implications for housing associations.
What the UK Shared Prosperity Fund could mean for housing associations. Find out what the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, launching in 2022, could mean for housing associations.
New EDI networks. We are launching a new national CEO network and a new network for operational leads on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
We’re calling for housing and homelessness support staff to get visa extensions . This week the NHF, alongside Homeless Link, wrote to the government to request visa extensions for housing and homelessness support staff in England.
Introducing extra governance support for smaller housing associations. An important part of our enhanced offer for smaller housing associations, ensuring you get great value from your NHF membership.
The road to improved engagement – Arches’ Story. Arches is on a journey to improve resident engagement and the adoption of the Together with Tenants Charter is an important step.
Providing and managing sites for gypsies and travellers. This webinar examined key success factors in extending provision and raising standards of this accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers.
Five key takeaways from the Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2021 conference. With COP26, discussions about a green recovery and stronger climate targets, Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2021 was absolutely vital.
Working together with residents on the net zero carbon agenda. While housing providers across the country stress-test business plans and get to grips with the new technology needed to reach net zero carbon, are we doing enough to consider what net zero carbon means for people and places?
Coronavirus – updates on testing, vaccinations and easing lockdown. During this webinar we hear the latest advice and guidance on key coronavirus issues, particularly options for staff testing and the roadmap for easing lockdown as it relates to supported housing and general needs.
Government consultation on vaccines for care home staff. The government has launched a five-week consultation on making receipt of the coronavirus vaccine a condition for staff deployment in care homes for older people.
On the road to net zero: Hastoe sets out its New-Build Standard . Hastoe are setting new minimum build requirements for new homes above current building regulations.
NHF and Homeless Link webinar (recorded 12 April 2021). During this webinar, we hear about good practice in housing management, partnerships and joint working as well as case studies from three social landlord providers involved in the delivery of Housing First.
Universal Credit in a time of crisis. Find out more about our research on income collection and support for tenants during the coronavirus crisis.
Universal Credit in a time of crisis. An exploration of rent collection and support by housing associations during the coronavirus crisis.
Our submission to HCLG Committee inquiry into long-term funding of adult social care. We have submitted a response on behalf of the housing association sector to the Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee inquiry into the long-term funding of adult social care.
Creating a baseline for equality, diversity and inclusion. Find out why it's so important to have an EDI baseline in the housing sector with Sonja.
Leadership and control.
Board Members' Resource Pack.
