Now the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has revealed shocking conclusions. These problems are in relation to the housing support services of East Suffolk Council and Ipswich Borough Council. The RSH served as a determined government oversight body and undertook comprehensive inspections. These inspections revealed serious systemic failures in the overall approach of both councils towards the management of social/affordable-rent homes.
East Suffolk Council, which has a stock of around 4,300 social and affordable homes. Alarmingly, almost half of these properties fail to meet the government’s own decent home standard. This standard serves as a baseline for what is considered livable housing quality. The RSH’s inspection highlighted “serious failings” within East Suffolk Council’s housing services, prompting the council to address the identified issues.
David Beavan, Independent councillor and cabinet member for housing at East Suffolk Council, said it was very disappointing to see these findings. He echoed the council’s stated commitment to address the issues identified in the GAO report.
“We are incredibly disappointed but entirely committed to addressing these issues,” – David Beavan
In a proactive attempt to communicate with tenants, East Suffolk Council sent out letters explaining the situation and outlining their plans for improvement.
Ipswich Borough Council was also recently challenged by the RSH, which found comparable failings in its provision of social housing. Labour councillor Alasdair Ross, housing portfolio holder at Ipswich Borough Council, acknowledged the criticisms. He touted the council’s dedication to providing housing that meets the highest standards of excellence.
“We are committed to providing safe, decent homes,” – Alasdair Ross
The RSH’s In-depth Assessments report recently found examples of good practice and high levels of tenant satisfaction. It noted that work remains and much of it.
“Although the regulator has acknowledged areas of good practice and high satisfaction among tenants, we recognise there is more to do,” – Alasdair Ross
The RSH explored how each council interacted with their tenants. They suggested that councils “in evidence” a general failure to foster a culture of courtesy and respect throughout their authorities and organizations. The report commended many of staff’s approaches with dignity and respect, but noted examples of unprofessional language.
Furthermore, the RSH described some aspects of service delivery as “effective, efficient and timely,” suggesting that while there are areas for improvement, there are commendable practices in place.
The results of these inspections are published and made freely accessible on the Regulator of Social Housing’s website at gov.uk. Both councils now share the burden of addressing these obvious deficiencies. Their goal is to provide top-notch housing service years ahead of their tenants’ and government’s future expectations.
