National Housing Federation

Update

Government proposals on audit reform

The government is proposing to introduce new thresholds for defining companies as Public Interest Entities.

30 June 2022

Update

What does the Renters' Reform Bill mean for supported housing?

The government has published new proposals on reform of tenure, including the abolition of section 21 ‘no fault’ repossession of property.

22 June 2022

Update

Our response to the Renters’ Reform White Paper

Earlier this month, DLUHC published a white paper on Renters’ Reform.

22 June 2022

Press Release

National Housing Federation appoints new chair, Maggie Galliers CBE

The National Housing Federation has announced that Maggie Galliers CBE has been selected to become its new Chair, starting in September.

21 June 2022

Update

The energy crisis and communal heating systems – feedback required

The NHF is discussing with the government and consumer organisations how best to help tenants with fuel costs given anticipated price rises.

13 June 2022

Update

Start preparing for Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund: Wave 2

Applications for funding from wave 2 of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund will open in late August or early September 2022 but you can begin preparing applications now.

10 June 2022

Update

Prime Minister announces plans for housing association Right to Buy

The Prime Minister has confirmed his plans to extend the Right to Buy scheme to housing association tenants.

10 June 2022

Response

Right to Buy - our response

Read our response to the government's announcement on the Right to Buy scheme.

09 June 2022

Update

Social Housing Regulation Bill published

We've outlined our initial response to the Social Housing Regulation Bill and summarised some of the key measures it will introduce.

09 June 2022

Update

Ending the need for food banks

The APPG on Ending the Need for Food Banks is running an inquiry to explore how communities and the government should address the need for food banks.

09 June 2022

Update

Independent panel on quality in housing association homes

We want to take action to address the issues of quality within the social housing sector.

09 June 2022

Press Release

Independent panel set up to tackle poor-quality homes

The National Housing Federation and Chartered Institute for Housing will set up an independent panel to make urgent recommendations for tackling poor quality housing in the sector.

08 June 2022

Response

The Social Housing Regulation Bill - our response

Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the NHF responds to the recently published Social Housing Regulation Bill.

08 June 2022

Update

Cost of living support announced

On Thursday, the government announced a £15bn package implementing a number of measures to provide support to millions of households across the UK struggling with the rising cost of living.

31 May 2022

Update

DWP guidance on deductions from benefits

The Department for Work and Pensions has published guidance that explains how creditors, including landlords, can request deductions from benefits to help people manage debt.

27 May 2022

Update

Commencement of the Fire Safety Act 2021

The Fire Safety Act 2021 was implemented on 16 May 2022 and the regulations arising from it were laid before Parliament on 18 May. We've summarised the Act and the regulations, and clarified some of the main points.

20 May 2022

Update

Clarifying consent for the Commitment to Refer

We have updated the Commitment to Refer guidelines to clarify the process around consent.

18 May 2022

Update

The Queen's speech 2022: our response

We've summarised the key information for housing associations from the state opening of Parliament.

17 May 2022

Update

NHF response to the Infrastructure Levy under the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill

We welcome the publication of the Bill and look forward to working with the government to ensure the supply of affordable housing is protected.

12 May 2022

Update

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms mandatory from October 2022

Eddie Hughes MP has once again written with an update on new smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements.

11 May 2022

Response

NHF response to the Queen's Speech

We look forward to working with the government to ensure social housing residents are always listened to and strengthen their rights through implementing the Social Housing Regulation Bill.

10 May 2022

Update

Building Safety Act

The Building Safety Bill has received Royal Assent, and the new Act will bring into force a number of measures intended to make buildings and residents safe, and protect leaseholders from building safety costs.

05 May 2022

Update

Government advice on help available for tackling anti-social behaviour

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities have published guidance explaining the help available for social housing residents with tackling anti-social behaviour.

04 May 2022

Update

The Housing Ombudsman’s call for evidence on noise complaints

The Housing Ombudsman has launched a call for evidence to support their next systemic investigation which will look at noise complaints. Submit your evidence by 13 May 2022.

04 May 2022

Update

Temporary pause on energy usage deductions from benefits

In light of the significant increase in energy bills, the Department for Work and Pensions has written to UK energy suppliers about plans to temporarily pause requests to pay for ongoing energy usage from benefits from 1 April.

03 May 2022

Statement

Statement on Right to Buy

NHF Chief Executive Kate Henderson reacts to recent news that the government may be considering reviving the Right to Buy scheme.

03 May 2022

Update

New money guidance from Money and Pensions Service

The guidance focusses on people who have not yet missed payments on their bills or credit obligations, but are at risk of doing so.

29 April 2022

Update

Household Support Fund launched

The Household Support Fund has been doubled to £1bn in an effort to assist families with the cost of living.

29 April 2022

Update

Completing the move to Universal Credit

Following a pause during the pandemic the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has restarted its programme to move all those in receipt of legacy benefits to Universal Credit.

28 April 2022

Update

Government grants available for electric vehicle chargepoints

£350 is available for each parking space provided with a chargepoint socket, with up to 200 grants available per year per landlord.

27 April 2022

Update

New government mental health and wellbeing plan – give your views

The government are seeking views to address the causes of mental ill-health, and to expand and improve NHS services to ensure they work for all.

21 April 2022

Update

Supported oversight housing pilots - DLUHC final evaluation

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have published their final evaluation of the supported oversight housing pilots.

21 April 2022

Update

Update on government negotiations with developers

Michael Gove, has provided an update on his negotiations with developers around ensuring that those responsible for the building safety crisis pay to fix it.

14 April 2022

Update

New Disabled Facilities Grant guidance

The government has produced new guidance on the delivery of the Disabled Facilities Grant for adaptations to serve the needs of older and disabled people.

07 April 2022

Update

UK Covid-19 Inquiry

The government has published a draft Terms of Reference for its inquiry into the UK's preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.

07 April 2022

Update

Update on Gazprom and contracts with Russian-owned suppliers

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, housing associations have been reconsidering their contracts with Russian-owned businesses, particularly Gazprom Energy.

07 April 2022

Update

Latest announcements regarding retrofit funding, decarbonisation and the ongoing energy crisis (April 2022)

There have been a number of government announcements recently that will impact housing associations.

07 April 2022

Update

Review of Decent Homes Standard accelerated

The Decent Homes Standard review has resumed and will now also cover the private rented sector.

06 April 2022

Response

Our response to the government’s announcement on social housing regulation

Read our response to the government's latest announcement on the Social Housing Regulation Bill.

29 March 2022

Update

Joint letter to the Secretary of State (BEIS) about the decarbonisation of homes

We have joined NatWest and others who signed a letter to the Secretary of State Kwasi Kwarteng MP detailing measures the government should take now to ensure we can deliver energy efficiency this decade.

29 March 2022

Update

The energy crisis: how it’s affecting residents and housing associations

Housing associations are doing all they can to help mitigate the impact of energy price rises on tenants and leaseholders.

25 March 2022

Update

New measures on building safety remediation costs

The government has announced new measures to protect leaseholders from paying for building safety remediation costs and ensure that those responsible pay.

25 March 2022

Update

Homes for Ukraine scheme and supporting the effort to house refugees

An update on housing association's efforts to support refugees.

25 March 2022

Update

The NHF joins the sector in calls to help young victims of sexual assault access housing

Solace, the women’s aid organisation, have written to HM Treasury to demand they do more to protect victims of sexual assault aged under 35.

24 March 2022

Press Release

Spring Statement 2022: our response

Our response to the Spring Statement 2022

23 March 2022

Update

Social housing allocations survey from Crisis and CaCHE

The NHF is collaborating with Crisis and the UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE) on a survey looking at current practices and issues affecting social housing allocations.

21 March 2022

Update

NICE guide on integrated health and social care for people experiencing homelessness

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Centre for Homelessness Impact have jointly published a guideline on ways to improve access to and engagement with health and social care services for people experiencing homelessness.

21 March 2022

Update

DLUHC announce intention to introduce new package of oversight for supported housing

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has published a Written Ministerial Statement. The statement concerns the quality and regulation of supported housing.

17 March 2022

Update

Funding to strengthen local partnerships to prevent and end rough sleeping

The prospectus for the DLUHC Voluntary and Community Frontline Sector Support Grant is now live. Applications for the four separate lines of the fund are due by 1 April.

15 March 2022

Update

Decarbonisation and lending – housing roundtable

In February 2022, we hosted a roundtable to discuss housing associations’ capacity to invest in decarbonising and improving the energy efficiency of their stock.

14 March 2022

Update

Committee report stresses impact of building safety costs on the delivery of affordable homes

The levelling up, housing and communities committee has published a new report on cladding and remediation.

14 March 2022

Press Release

NHF response to committee report on building safety remediation and funding

Read our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee's report on building safety remediation and funding.

11 March 2022

Update

Our recent work on non-commissioned exempt accommodation

On 23 February, a parliamentary debate was tabled by the Labour Party on non-commissioned exempt accommodation.

11 March 2022

Update

No Homeless Veterans campaign: survey responses needed

The NHF is working to deliver the second stage of the No Homeless Veterans campaign alongside Homeless Link.

09 March 2022

Update

New resident survey on Social Housing White Paper commitments

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities have commissioned a new survey for social housing tenants in England reviewing how landlords are currently performing against the commitments in the Social Housing White Paper.

04 March 2022

Update

Second phase of complaints handling campaign launched

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) are running a second campaign to raise awareness of, and increase confidence in the social housing complaints making process.

04 March 2022

Update

Department for Work and Pension announcement on annual rent changes

The Department for Work and Pensions confirmed earlier this month that all 2022 annual rent changes would be subject to verification by landlords on the Universal Credit portal this year.

24 February 2022

Update

Domestic abuse consultations launched

The Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities has announced two domestic abuse consultations.

23 February 2022

Update

Living with Covid plan announced

The Prime Minister has announced an end to all remaining coronavirus restrictions in England.

22 February 2022

Update

Our work with the new Minister of State for Housing

The NHF has welcomed the new Minister of State for Housing, Stuart Andrew MP following a cabinet reshuffle.

10 February 2022

Update

Consultation to revoke compulsory vaccinations for health and social care staff

On 31 January 2022, the government announced its intention to revoke the regulations that made vaccination a condition of deployment for health and social care staff.

10 February 2022

Update

Bidding open for next round of Rough Sleeping Accommodation Programme funding

Councils and their partners have until midday on 13 April 2022 to submit their co-produced proposals for the next round of Rough Sleeping Accommodation Programme (RSAP) funding.

09 February 2022

Update

NHF becomes Disability Confident Committed

The NHF has signed up to become a Disability Confident employer having completed level 1 of the Disability Confident scheme.

08 February 2022

Update

What does the Levelling Up White Paper mean for housing associations?

The Levelling Up White Paper has now been published, find out what it means for housing associations.

08 February 2022

Update

New domestic abuse guidance published

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have recently updated two pieces of guidance in relation to supporting victims of domestic abuse.

04 February 2022

Statement

NHF response to Levelling Up White Paper

Our Chief Executive, Kate Henderson, responds to the government's Levelling Up White Paper.

02 February 2022

Update

Help your council shape their rough sleeping funding plans before 25 February

Local authorities are currently developing plans that will shape homelessness services for the next three years. Housing associations can, and should engage now to share best practice and help shape those services.

21 January 2022

Update

Supported housing: new testing and isolation rules introduced

The advice for health and social care staff on testing has changed.

12 January 2022

Update

Future Homes Standard – interim uplift information

In December 2021, the government implemented the interim uplift to building regulations and published new Approved Documents.

12 January 2022

Update

Plan B guidance – what has changed and what it means for housing associations

In early December, the government announced the implementation of its Plan B for containing and managing the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus in England.

11 January 2022

Statement

NHF response to building safety announcement

The NHF has responded to an announcement on building safety by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

10 January 2022

Update

Tenant satisfaction measures consultation

The Regulator of Social Housing is consulting on a proposed set of tenant satisfaction measures until 3 March 2022.

10 January 2022

Update

New plans to protect and vaccinate rough sleepers

Eddie Hughes MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Rough Sleeping and Housing at DLUHC has issued a letter to local authorities indicating that they should accommodate rough sleepers and connect them with support to receive their coronavirus vaccination.

22 December 2021

Update

Exempt accommodation inquiry - call for evidence

Please get in touch with our team by 14 January if you would like to share your views.

22 December 2021

Update

NHF joins steering group to examine rural homelessness

Chaired by English Rural Housing Association, this will be a 12 month collaboration between Kent and Southampton University and several leading homelessness and rural charities, including HomelessLink, the Trussell Trust and the NHF.

21 December 2021

Update

Renters reform – give us your views

The reforms include repealing Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, ensuring the grounds for eviction in Section 8 are “fit for purpose”, and improving the court process.

20 December 2021

Update

Have your say – our new Code of Conduct

We have rewritten our 2012 Code of Conduct to reflect contemporary thinking in good governance. The draft code is available to download and NHF members can send their feedback by Friday 14 January.

16 December 2021

Press Release

1 in 5 children in need of a new home

Two million children in England are living in overcrowded, unaffordable or unsuitable homes, according to new findings.

15 December 2021

Update

Building safety remedial works and funding: Michael Gove’s review

The new Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove MP, has stated his commitment to building safety and confirmed that he is reviewing his Department’s policies.

08 December 2021

Update

Join our Finance Policy Advisory Group

We're looking for two new members to join our expert panel providing senior finance specialist input to NHF policy development and discussion.

07 December 2021

Update

Social housing recognised in new Social Care White Paper

The NHF has welcomed the government’s launch of a wide ranging 10 year vision for Social Care, People at the Heart of Care.

02 December 2021

Update

Updated coronavirus guidance for supported living

The government has updated its coronavirus guidance for staff and service users in supported living settings in a number of areas.

02 December 2021

Response

Our response to the government's Social Care White Paper

Catherine Ryder, Director of Policy and Research at the NHF responds to the government's Social Care White Paper released today.

01 December 2021

Update

Government announce extension of compulsory vaccinations to health and wider social care settings

Following public consultation on the issue, the government has announced its decision on the proposal to extend the requirement for compulsory vaccinations as a condition of deployment to health and wider social care settings.

18 November 2021

Update

Winter Pressures Funding for rough sleeper accommodation

The government has announced £10m of funding to be spent on accommodation for rough sleepers over winter.

04 November 2021

Update

Housing Ombudsman spotlight report on damp and mould

The Housing Ombudsman has published a new spotlight report on damp and mould urging housing providers to take a zero tolerance approach. Find out the report's main recommendations.

04 November 2021

Statement

NHF response to the Chancellor's Budget 2021

Today’s budget is a welcome commitment of support in key areas, after a year that has seen families across the country struggling to afford the cost of living.

27 October 2021

Update

Local authority Homelessness Prevention Grant increased by £65m to support vulnerable renters

The government has increased the ring-fenced homelessness prevention fund available to local authorities by £65m.

27 October 2021

Update

What the NHF is doing to encourage partnership working to end homelessness

The NHF is working to provide opportunities for housing associations to learn about partnership working and discuss possible approaches going forwards.

21 October 2021

Update

Building a national picture of diversity in social housing using our EDI data tool

The NHF would like to say a big thank you to members who submitted their EDI data tool and contributed to building the first-ever national picture of workforce diversity in the social housing sector.

21 October 2021

Press Release

More than 1 in 10 new affordable homes lost to building safety costs

More than 1 in 10 new affordable homes lost to building safety costs according to research by the NHF.

20 October 2021

Update

NHF response to the Heat and Buildings Strategy

We welcome the commitment of the first part of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, the clear signal that heat pumps are likely to be the primary source of home heat and the commitment to bring down electricity prices.

19 October 2021

Press Release

Decarbonising housing associations’ homes to cost £36bn, according to National Housing Federation

While housing associations are already planning to invest £70bn in futureproofing their homes, our new estimates demonstrate that full decarbonisation by 2050 will cost an additional £36bn.

19 October 2021

Update

Housing associations to be made exempt from Residential Property Developer Tax

Following our consultation response and conversations with HM Treasury, updated draft legislation for the Residential Property Developer Tax now includes an exemption for all non-profit groups, including for profit-subsidiaries and joint ventures.

15 October 2021

Update

We need your response to our latest survey on Universal Credit and income collection

With the end of furlough and the cut to Universal Credit, we are collecting key measures around claimant numbers and income collection, including amount of rent arrears and arrears as a percentage of rent due.

07 October 2021

Update

EDI data tool submission deadline extended to 8 October

We have extended the deadline for members to submit their equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) data tool by Friday 8 October.

23 September 2021

Update

The Regulator of Social Housing has published its learnings from the latest Consumer Regulation Review

The Consumer Regulation Review sets out the Regulator of Social Housing's approach to consumer regulation and the key lessons learned.

23 September 2021

Response

Our response to the Kerslake Commission on Rough Sleeping final report

Read our response to the final report from the Commission.

23 September 2021

Update

Compulsory coronavirus vaccinations for care home staff

All staff directly employed by the care home or employed through an agency, as well as all volunteers, will need to be fully vaccinated with both doses of the vaccine by 11 November.

08 September 2021

Update

Apply for Wave 1 of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund

The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund is open for applications until 15 October 2021.

07 September 2021

Update

Better Care Fund policy framework published

The Better Care Fund, one of the government’s national vehicles for driving health and social care integration, has published its latest framework.

25 August 2021

Press Release

England’s leaky homes are a greater threat to climate than all of its cars

Our new research shows that England’s 25m homes produce 58.5m tonnes of CO2 every year – the equivalent of the average annual use of 28m cars.

25 August 2021

Update

Domestic Abuse Act statutory guidance: share your views

Share your views with the Home Office on their consultation into the Domestic Abuse Act statutory guidance.

18 August 2021

Press Release

NHF releases ethnicity pay gap data for the first time

The National Housing Federation (NHF) has for the first time released data on our ethnicity pay gap, as part of a drive to improve Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across the organisation.

12 August 2021

Update

Simultaneous evacuation: updated guidance from the NFCC

The National Fire Chiefs Council has updated their guidance on simultaneous evacuation in high rise residential buildings, introducing key changes.

11 August 2021

Update

Safety checks and maintenance work – masks and social distancing

MHCLG have highlighted guidance on mask wearing and social distancing for staff or engineers conducting gas safety checks and maintenance work following the easing of lockdown restrictions in July.

10 August 2021

Update

Anti-social behaviour: new guidance for social housing residents

MHCLG has published new guidance for social housing residents facing anti-social behaviour.

09 August 2021

Press Release

4 in 5 social tenants struggle to pay for essentials on Universal Credit

A recent NHF survey examining claimants' experiences of claiming Universal Credit during the pandemic shows that 4 in 5 social tenants struggle to pay for essentials, including food, on Universal Credit.

05 August 2021

Update

Options for homeless individuals needing to self-isolate

MHCLG have provided further advice on options for homeless individuals needing to self-isolate.

05 August 2021

Update

New research on adapting allocations policies in response to the coronavirus crisis

We surveyed housing associations on changes to their allocations approach during the pandemic

28 July 2021

Update

Government consultation on proposed changes to the Energy Company Obligation

The government is currently consulting on the structure of the forthcoming Energy Company Obligation scheme and the NHF will be responding on behalf of the sector.

28 July 2021

Update

Summary of current self-isolation guidance for staff

We’ve summarised the latest information for fully vaccinated health and social care staff and critical workers, including how to contact MHCLG if you think your staff are eligible for exemptions.

28 July 2021

Update

All-Party Parliamentary Group on Ending Homelessness report into Housing First rollout

The APPG on Ending Homelessness has launched a report on its inquiry into what is needed to scale up Housing First nationally.

28 July 2021

Update

Kerslake Commission on Homelessness and Rough sleeping - interim report published

This report from the Commision - of which the NHF is a part - includes examples of savings brought about by homelessness prevention.

27 July 2021

Update

Financial Reporting Council’s Periodic Review of FRS102 and potential change to lease accounting

The Financial Reporting Council is changing accounting rules, impacting the reporting of leases, including tenancies and shared ownership leases.

16 July 2021

Update

Building Safety Bill: initial NHF response

The Building Safety Bill, published on Monday 5 July, sets out the legislation for the new building safety regulatory regime to ensure the safety of people and their homes. Read our initial response and next steps.

06 July 2021

Statement

The NHF’s response to the ITV News housing investigation

24 June 2021

Update

Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) – upcoming regional meetings

DAHA will be holding their regional meetings during June and July.

03 June 2021

Statement

Housing associations' statement on evictions and support for residents

Housing associations have made a permanent commitment to residents, that no one will be evicted from their home as a result of financial hardship.

28 May 2021

Update

Housing Ombudsman report on dealing with cladding complaints

The new report sets out three key lessons for social landlords in dealing with complaints about cladding to ensure that the impact on all residents is recognised.

20 May 2021

Update

Launching the first Building Better framework

We're building the biggest aggregated housing association and local authority pipeline for modern methods of construction (MMC).

19 May 2021

Update

Our response to the compulsory vaccine consultation

The government recently ran a consultation on making vaccination a condition of deployment in older adult care homes. Read our response.

17 May 2021

Press Release

Response to the government’s changes to eviction notice periods

Our response to MHCLG's news release titled 'Support for renters continues with longer notice periods'

12 May 2021

Update

Queen’s Speech 2021 – key housing announcements

A summary of the key measures announced and our next steps.

12 May 2021

Statement

NHF response to the Queen's Speech

We look forward to working with the government to ensure social housing residents are always listened to, but hope to see full legislation on the Social Housing White Paper proposals as soon as possible.

11 May 2021

Update

What the UK Shared Prosperity Fund could mean for housing associations

Find out what the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, launching in 2022, could mean for housing associations.

06 May 2021

Update

New statutory ‘Breathing Space’ scheme to help people in problem debt

The Debt Respite Scheme is a new statutory scheme to provide ‘breathing space’ to help people in problem debt - including rent arrears - to better manage their finances, seek professional debt advice and reach sustainable solutions.

06 May 2021

Update

Fire and building safety regulation: legislation update

Find out more about the Fire Safety Act and the Building Safety Bill.

05 May 2021

Update

New national EDI networks

We are launching a new national CEO network and a new network for operational leads on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).

05 May 2021

Update

We’re calling for housing and homelessness support staff to get visa extensions

This week the NHF, alongside Homeless Link, wrote to the government to request visa extensions for housing and homelessness support staff in England.

05 May 2021

Update

Government consultation on vaccines for care home staff

The government has launched a five-week consultation on making receipt of the coronavirus vaccine a condition for staff deployment in care homes for older people.

21 April 2021

Press Release

NHF launches equality, diversity and inclusion data tool

The National Housing Federation has launched a data tool today which will enable its members to understand how representative their workforces are of the communities they serve.

12 April 2021

Update

Updates on new shared ownership model and delivery of First Homes

This morning the Government released the outcomes of two separate consultations, confirming important details of the new Shared Ownership model, and the delivery of First Homes via developer contributions.

01 April 2021

Update

Coronavirus guidance for supported housing providers

This summary covers information on the latest guidance, vaccines and testing, shielding, prevention and visits for supported housing providers.

01 April 2021

Update

Secretary of State for Housing, Robert Jenrick MP, addresses the National Housing Summit 2021

Jenrick lays out the government’s key housing priorities and takes questions from across the housing sector

24 March 2021

Update

Tax update: the importance of the Capital Goods Scheme for your housing association

Keeping information related to the Capital Goods Scheme up to date may not be high on your priority list. Our taxation advisers RSM, explain why it is important to retain the information now, to prevent lost opportunities in the future.

11 March 2021

Update

Tax update: homeworking and employment tax considerations

Homeworking has become the norm for many of us over the past year. Our tax advisors, RSM, explain what implications this new way of working could have for you and your employees.

10 March 2021

Update

Spring Budget 2021 – update for housing finance professionals

Our tax advisors, RSM, give us a round down of the key points for housing associations from the most recent Spring Budget and advise what could happen in upcoming updates.

10 March 2021

Update

The LIBOR benchmark interest rate is ending – what does this mean for housing associations?

UK Finance detail what steps housing associations should be taking now to ensure they are ready for the end of LIBOR.

09 March 2021

Update

Testing and tracing updates

See any latest information and updates on testing and tracing within the sector

08 March 2021

Update

MHCLG complaints process campaign launched

Following on from a commitment made in the Social Housing White Paper, MHCLG have launched a campaign with the aim of raising awareness among social housing residents of the complaints process, helping them to feel empowered to make complaints where needed.

05 March 2021

Press Release

NHF response to the Chancellor's Budget 2021

This budget is an important step in helping the country get back on its feet, as we navigate our recovery from the pandemic.

03 March 2021

Press Release

National Housing Federation’s Together with Tenants now covering more than two million homes

The National Housing Federation’s Together with Tenants initiative has now been formally adopted by 165 housing associations, covering more than two million homes.

02 March 2021

Response

Our response to the government’s annual rough sleeping snapshot

The government's Everybody In initiative has had a significant effect on reducing the number of people who are homeless on our streets but what else do we need to do.

25 February 2021

Update

Fuel Poverty Strategy published

The government has published an updated fuel poverty strategy which is important to housing associations in relation to tenant support and the journey to net zero.

25 February 2021

Update

Decent Homes Standard review underway

MHCLG has established a sounding board, which includes the National Housing Federation, to review of the Decent Homes Standard.

24 February 2021

Update

Government announces additional £3.5bn of funding for cladding remediation

Secretary of State Robert Jenrick MP recently announced an additional £3.5bn of funding for the remediation of unsafe cladding.

22 February 2021

Update

Local authority duty to provide support within domestic abuse safe accommodation– funding allocated

The government has allocated £125 million to local authorities to cover the costs of the new duty around the provision of support within domestic abuse safe accommodation services.

16 February 2021

Update

Introducing MRI Software, our ‘new look’ preferred Housing Management supplier

We’re pleased to officially announce MRI Software as our preferred housing management supplier.

11 February 2021

Response

Our response to Robert Jenrick's building safety funding announcement

Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, responds to the new £3.5bn fund from government to fix dangerous cladding.

10 February 2021

Update

Feedback on the vaccination programme for care and supported housing residents and staff

See updates on our members' front line staff in supported and sheltered housing getting the vaccination,

10 February 2021

Update

New National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and National Model Design Code Consultation

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) have launched a consultation proposing a number of changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

05 February 2021

Update

Putting social housing on the Secretary of State’s New Year agenda

This week we held a roundtable with the Secretary of State for MHCLG, Robert Jenrick, the new chair of Homes England, and key officials, to discuss our sector's development ambitions and desire to work in partnership with the government to deliver for our communities.

28 January 2021

Update

MHCLG to launch a complaints process campaign

Following on from a commitment made in the Social Housing White Paper, MHCLG is due to launch a campaign

28 January 2021

Update

What does the new Future Homes Standard mean for building regulations?

The government has published the key outcome of its 2019 consultation on the Future Homes Standard. Find out more here.

27 January 2021

Update

Summary of the Future Buildings Standard consultation

As part of the process of developing the Future Buildings Standard, MHCLG have launched a consultation on changes to the Building Regulations, specifically affecting ventilation and conservation of fuel and power.

27 January 2021

Response

Our response to the Public Accounts Committee inquiry into rough sleeping during and beyond the pandemic

The Public Accounts Committee ran an inquiry into the government’s rehousing of rough sleepers during the coronavirus pandemic.

19 January 2021

Update

Government consultation on changes to the Mental Health Act

The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) is inviting submissions to a consultation on proposed changes to the Mental Health Act (MHA).

19 January 2021

Update

Planning for the Future consultation – an update from MHCLG

Ahead of publishing its consultation response in the spring, the government has advised that any policy changes and reforms arising from the Planning for the Future proposals will take time to implement, and that planners should not delay their delivery of local plans.

15 January 2021

Response

Response to the Daily Mail's cladding campaign

The Daily Mail has launched a campaign to support leaseholders affected by cladding issues. Please see our response below as we support their campaign.

04 January 2021

Update

Roundtable of the Brexit Business Taskforce

As the government prepares for the UK's exit from the European Union on 31 December 2020, the NHF has been raising with ministers, the potential implications of Brexit on housing associations.

17 December 2020

Update

Building Safety Fund deadline extended

The government has extended the deadline for claiming from the Building Safety Fund to 30 June 2021. Find out everything you need to know and how it affects you.

17 December 2020

Update

Lessons learned from the Rough Sleeper Accommodation Programme roundtables

We held two roundtable sessions for over 60 of our housing association members to feedback on their experience of bidding into the 2020/21 Rough Sleeper Accommodation Programme (RSAP).

16 December 2020

Update

What the Energy White Paper means for housing associations

On Monday 14 December, the government published its long-awaited Energy White Paper ‘Powering our Net Zero Future’.

16 December 2020

Update

Modern methods of construction – building the social housing sector’s awareness and confidence

There is an ongoing drive to encourage housing associations to adopt modern methods of construction (MMC) in their delivery programmes. Mark Farmer, CEO of Cast Consultancy & MHCLG MMC Champion, sets out the progress that has been made since 2017 to grow the confidence of the sector in adopting MMC.

14 December 2020

Update

Lockdown funding for rough sleeper accommodation

The government has announced the Protect Programme – £15m of funding for rough sleeper accommodation available until March 2021.

14 December 2020

Update

What the Sixth Carbon Budget means for housing associations

The Climate Change Committee has published their Sixth Carbon Budget, including some policy recommendations to the government which may have implications for housing associations’ work on decarbonisation.

11 December 2020

Update

Tax update: changes to off-payroll working from April 2021

The government has passed legislation confirming that the new IR35 rules will be introduced from April 2021. It is important that housing associations plan for these changes and that processes are in place to ensure that the new obligations are met. Our tax advisors RSM explain how this will work in practice.

11 December 2020

Update

VAT Grouping – Call for Evidence

HM Treasury has released a Call for Evidence in relation to VAT grouping, and in particular the criteria relating to establishment, eligibility and registration. The NHF has responded to this on behalf of its members, with the help of tax advisers RSM, who explain the detail behind this consultation here.

10 December 2020

Press Release

Three quarters of housing associations already on journey to net zero

Almost three quarters (74%) of housing associations are already drawing up plans for how to make their homes 'net zero' by 2050, according to a new survey.

10 December 2020

Update

Pensions update: Local Government Pension Scheme

Recent developments mean employers have more options for managing Local Government Pension Scheme assets and liabilities. Our pensions advisors Isio explain the detail.

09 December 2020

Update

Tax update: Domestic Reverse Charge and Construction Industry Scheme

The Domestic Reverse Charge for the construction industry is set to be introduced on 1 March 2021, with new rules bringing practical and financial challenges for housing associations. HMRC is also running an awareness drive about organisations' obligations under the Construction Industry Scheme. Our tax advisers RSM outline the detail.

08 December 2020

Update

Pensions update: SHPS funding valuation and new Defined Benefit funding code

The NHF’s pensions advisors Isio provide an update on the Social Housing Pension Scheme funding valuation and the potential impact on employers, plus the Pensions Regulator’s new funding code for Defined Benefit schemes, and assess the steps employers can take to manage risks.

07 December 2020

Update

Making Tax Digital – the final requirement of digital links

Most housing associations are successfully submitting their VAT returns under the Making Tax Digital regime. Arguably, however, the real challenge will come when the ‘digital link’ soft landing period ends in April 2021. Our tax advisors RSM explain this in more detail.

04 December 2020

Update

’Going concern’ standard revised – what this means for housing associations

The Financial Reporting Council has revised its ‘going concern’ standard which increases the level of responsibility on organisations' auditors. Julia Crowe, Head of Social Housing at Crowe UK LLP, explains the detail and the implications for housing associations.

04 December 2020

Response

Our response to the HCLG Committee inquiry into the impact of coronavirus on the homelessness and private rented sector

The Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee has launched an inquiry into the impact of coronavirus on the homelessness and private rented sector.

01 December 2020

Update

Spending Review 2020: housing measures announced

Summary of housing measures announced by the Chancellor in his Spending Review on 25 November.

30 November 2020

Update

Domestic abuse safe accommodation fund

The government has reopened the domestic abuse safe accommodation fund. Find out who is eligible for grants.

30 November 2020

Response

Response to Panorama programme on shared ownership

Response from the National Housing Federation on the Panorama episode "The Home I Can't Afford".

25 November 2020

Statement

NHF response to the Spending Review

Statement from Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation

25 November 2020

Response

Response to the Housing Select Committee report on the draft Building Safety Bill

Read our response to the Housing Select Committee report on the Building Safety Bill.

24 November 2020

Update

Consultation on new shared ownership model

The new model aims to deliver on the government’s manifesto commitment of a “fairer, more transparent” form of shared ownership.

19 November 2020

Update

Lockdown 2.0 – business as usual?

Update from Boris Worrall, West Midlands Regional Committee Chair.

19 November 2020

Blog

Government publishes Social Housing White Paper

A summary of the white paper proposals and our initial response and next steps.

19 November 2020

Update

New Sustainability Reporting Standard for housing associations

A new Sustainability Reporting Standard for social housing was published on 10 November. This Standard provides a common framework which social landlords can use to report on their environmental and social impact, and their governance arrangements (ESG).

18 November 2020

Update

The government's plan for a green industrial revolution

We've summarised the government's plan for a green industrial revolution, highlighting the main points for housing associations.

18 November 2020

Response

Our response to the government's Social Housing White Paper

Our Chief Executive, Kate Henderson, responds to the government's Social Housing White Paper released today.

17 November 2020

Update

Long-term rough sleeper accommodation funding now allocated

The government has announced the funding allocations for the long-term element of the Next Steps Accommodation Programme. You can read the full details on the government’s website.

05 November 2020

Update

The autumn national lockdown - our initial analysis and next steps

Our initial analysis and next steps following the Prime Minister's announcement of a new national lockdown.

02 November 2020

Update

New safety requirements for residential blocks come into effect in November

We summarise changes to Approved Document B due to come into effect in November.

22 October 2020

Update

Update on the Spending Review and our political engagement

The government has now confirmed it will hold a one-year Spending Review next month.

22 October 2020

Update

Advice for the safe reopening of night homeless shelters

New government advice for the safe opening of night homeless shelters in winter during the coronavirus outbreak.

21 October 2020

Update

Government consultation on land ownership and control

We’re keen to hear members’ views on how public data on land ownership and control could be improved.

21 October 2020

Update

National Statement of Expectations for Supported Housing published

National Statement of Expectations, Supported Housing, Supported housing providers, supported housing provision, guidelines for supported housing

21 October 2020

Update

Making the case for a retrofit revolution – our recent political engagement

The Prime Minister has responded to our call for the government to draw up a coronavirus recovery plan that prioritised investment in green projects and green infrastructure.

21 October 2020

Update

Competence for roles in the new building safety regulatory system

The Competence Steering Group (CSG) published its final report, setting out a framework to improve the competence of those working on higher-risk buildings.

20 October 2020

Update

New advice from the DWP about complicated Universal Credit calculations

This update provides information from DWP to explain how Universal Credit payments are calculated based on different tenancies.

16 October 2020

Update

53 weeks and Universal Credit – legal case dismissed

The High Court has ruled that converting weekly rents to a monthly value for the purposes of calculating Universal Credit entitlement are neither irrational nor unlawful.

16 October 2020

Update

Applying for the Building Safety Fund

We provide clarification on the process for applying for funding for the removal and remediation of non-ACM combustible cladding.

16 October 2020

Update

Together with Tenants rollout coming soon

We’re getting ready to roll this out across the entire sector later this month - our ambition is for all housing associations to support our Together with Tenants plan and adopt the Charter.

08 October 2020