Agenda item

13.1

This report seeks approval from the Housing Policy Committee to submit a response to the government consultation on a draft Competence and Conduct Standard for social housing staff.

The government is consulting on its proposals to introduce a new, regulatory standard relating to the competence and conduct of social housing staff. This standard will require senior managers and executives to have, or be working towards, a relevant qualification. It will ensure that staff have up-to-date skills, knowledge, and experience, and that they exhibit the right behaviours to deliver a high quality, professional service and treat residents with respect.

13.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy Committee:-

1.     provides feedback on the draft response attached at Appendix A; and

2.     approves the consultation response for submission to Government with the addition of a request that the Government ensures that it meets the full cost of the staff development required as a result of the proposals.

13.3

Reasons for Decision

13.3.1

There are several financial and resource implications arising from the proposed implementation of a Competence and Conduct Standard for social housing. It is important for the Council to highlight these implications to government as part of this consultation.

13.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

13.4.1

The alternative option is not to provide a response to the consultation. However, on this occasion, given that there are implications for the Council, the recommendation is that a response is submitted.

13.1

The Director of Housing presented a report that sought approval to submit a response to the Government consultation on a draft Competence and Conduct Standard for social housing staff. The Government was consulting on proposals to introduce a new, regulatory standard relating to the competence and conduct of social housing staff. The standard would require senior managers and executives to have, or be working towards, a relevant qualification. It would ensure that staff had up-to-date skills, knowledge, and experience, and that they would exhibit the right behaviours to deliver a high quality, professional service and treat residents with respect.

13.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy Committee:-

1.     provides feedback on the draft response attached at Appendix A; and

2.     approves the consultation response for submission to Government with the addition of a request that the Government ensures that it meets the full cost of the staff development required as a result of the proposals.

13.3

Reasons for Decision

13.3.1

There are several financial and resource implications arising from the proposed implementation of a Competence and Conduct Standard for social housing. It is important for the Council to highlight these implications to government as part of this consultation.

13.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

13.4.1

The alternative option is not to provide a response to the consultation. However, on this occasion, given that there are implications for the Council, the recommendation is that a response is submitted.