Arun District Council responds to Housing Regulator findings with improvement programme
Arun District Council acknowledges the findings from the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH), which identified that the council does not meet certain aspects of the Consumer Standards. The concerns raised relate to resident safety, engagement, and tenancy management. The council is taking steps to address these issues.
A comprehensive improvement plan is being developed to address all the RSH's findings. Oversight of this plan will be provided by a Housing Improvement Board, which includes senior council leadership and an independent Chair and the council's Housing and Wellbeing Committee.
Work is underway to improve areas such as fire safety, smoke detection, and the overall condition of council homes.
Efforts are being made to address the backlog of actions arising from Fire Risk Assessments, including the appointment of a specialist contractor to support delivery. Improvements to the Section 20 leaseholder consultation process are also being considered to minimise delays.
The council's stock condition survey programme is ongoing, with further phases planned. Tenants are encouraged to participate to support the council's efforts to maintain safe and decent homes.
Delays in the repairs service are being reviewed, and steps are being taken to improve response times and reduce outstanding cases.
The council is working to ensure that all homes meet the Decent Homes Standard and is working at speed to understand stock condition of all homes and then to plan future work based on good data.
The council recognises the concerns raised by tenants and is committed to making the necessary improvements. Transparency and accountability will be maintained throughout this process.
Carol Birch, Chair of the Housing and Wellbeing Committee, said:
“We fully accept the RSH findings and are determined to put things right. Our tenants deserve safe, decent homes, and we are committed to delivering just that. This improvement programme is a vital step forward, and we will continue to work closely with the RSH to ensure lasting change."
We want to thank tenants for their patience and support as we work to deliver the standards they rightly expect and deserve.