URL: https://democracy.canterbury.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1729

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning introduced the report that seeks approval from Cabinet of the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) Consumer Standards Improvement Strategy and Improvement Plan.    There were two options for Cabinet to consider within the report:     1. To Resolve the RSH Consumer Standards Improvement Strategy and Improvement Plan     2. Require amendments to the RSH Consumer Standards Improvement Strategy and Improvement Plan    The Cabinet discussed the report, and the following points were made:    The Cabinet Advisory Committee for Housing had considered and endorsed the strategy. Thanks were expressed to the Committee, including the independent housing representatives, for their input.  Cabinet acknowledged the progress that had been made over the previous year and thanked officers for their work.  A query was raised regarding the audit process, including how internal audits and tenant-led audits were assessed against the same standards as external scrutiny, and whether there was a structured approach to peer challenge or external audit of the self-assessment process.  It was confirmed that monthly meetings were held with the RSH to review external measures. Internal auditing and scrutiny would continue after inspection to provide assurance, as the council was required to demonstrate continuous improvement as a social housing provider.  It was explained that the regulatory process involved checking and challenging the council’s data. The East Kent Audit Partnership would also examine areas such as voids and compliance, and it was considered that there would be limited value in commissioning an additional external audit given the rigorous process undertaken by the regulator.  Following the regulatory process, a new grading would be issued. The report reflected the regulator’s assessment of performance, while also identifying areas for improvement recognised by the council.  It was confirmed that monthly meetings with the Portfolio Holder and housing meetings would continue, and that a further report would be brought to Cabinet in July. The improvement process would continue even if the council’s grading improved.  In response to a question regarding anti-social behaviour, it was explained that the regulator had placed significant emphasis on this area. The action plan included the introduction of a satisfaction survey in relation to casework and obtaining feedback from tenants. A focus group would also consider how the council was tackling anti-social behaviour.  Warm homes were not included in the report because the plan was targeted to meet the regulator’s requirements. However, the work contributed to improving the condition of homes and meeting decent homes standards, and an update would be provided to Cabinet on 2 July.    It was then proposed, seconded and when put to a recorded vote RESOLVED that:    To adopt the RSH Consumer Standards Improvement Strategy and Improvement Plan that has been developed by officers and endorsed by the Regulator for Social Housing.    Record of the voting:  For (6): Baldock, Charlotte Cornell ,Chris Cornell, Dawkins, Hazleton and Nolan.  Against (0): None  Abstained (0): None    Reason for the decision: To allow us to meet the requirements of RSH to have a strategy in place  

Date of Decision: June 9, 2026