New legislation changes for housing associations

The New Legislation: What You Need to Know

The amendment to the Social Housing Regulation Bill mandates that social housing managers obtain specific qualifications to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage housing and support residents effectively. This initiative aims to raise the standard of service delivery across the sector.

What This Means for Managers

All managers require either a level 4 or 5 certificate or Diploma in Housing or a Foundation Degree from the Chartered Institution of Housing.

Anyone in a managerial position without the required qualifications if affected by this legislation, and it presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge is clear: training maybe required to meet these new standards but provides an opportunity for continuous professional development (CPD).

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

• For Managers: Unqualified managers may face penalties.
• For Housing Associations: Employing non-compliant managers could lead to regulatory scrutiny, fines, or even legal action.

Impact on Housing Associations

From an organisational perspective, housing associations must take proactive steps to ensure all managerial staff meet the new qualifications. Here's a roadmap to navigate this transition smoothly:

1. Audit Existing Qualifications: Start by conducting a comprehensive audit of the current qualifications held by all managers. Identify who needs additional training.
2. Facilitate Training Programs: Partner with accredited institutions to provide the necessary training programs for managers who need to obtain the required qualifications.
3. Update HR Systems: Ensure your HR systems are updated to track and manage the qualifications and ongoing professional development of your managers. This includes setting reminders for recertification and CPD requirements.
4. Communicate Clearly: Maintain open lines of communication with your staff about the new requirements and the steps they need to take. Provide support and resources to help them meet these new standards.

Overcoming Challenges with Non-Compliant HR Systems

A significant concern arises if your HR system is not equipped to handle these new compliance requirements. Traditional HR systems might not have the functionality to track specific qualifications, remind managers of renewal dates, or manage CPD activities. This can lead to gaps in compliance, putting your association at risk.

Actions to Mitigate Risks

• Upgrade HR Systems: Invest in an HR system that is designed to handle the complexities of qualification tracking and compliance management. Look for features such as automated reminders, comprehensive reporting capabilities, and integration with training providers.
• Manual Tracking as a Temporary Measure: If an immediate upgrade is not feasible, implement a manual tracking system as a temporary measure. This could be as simple as a shared spreadsheet or database that is regularly updated and reviewed.
• Regular Reviews: Conduct regular compliance reviews to ensure all managers are on track with their qualifications. This should be a collaborative effort between HR, management, and the individuals themselves.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of mandatory qualifications for social housing managers is a positive step towards improving the quality of service for residents. While it presents challenges, particularly for those without the necessary qualifications and for associations with outdated HR systems, it also offers an opportunity to professionalise the sector further and ensure the highest standards of management.

By taking proactive steps to comply with the new legislation, housing associations can not only avoid potential penalties but also enhance the quality of life for their residents. It’s an investment in the future—one that promises to yield significant benefits for both managers and residents alike.