Navigating the current landscape: An update on the regulatory environment
30 January 2025
"At Placeshapers, we firmly believe that the pursuit of future growth must never compromise the quality of existing homes."
Wow time flies - four months into my role as a PlaceShapers board member and it has been fantastic to have been involved with speaking with so many members about the fantastic work they are doing on a daily basis in our communities.
In my previous blog post, I shared some very early reflections on my role as a board member at PlaceShapers. My fellow board member, Jo Savage, recently provided a comprehensive overview of our recent board activities, and I wholeheartedly agree with her insights.
As promised, I'm following up with an update on our recent quarterly meeting with the Regulator of Social Housing. This productive session involved PlaceShapers Chief Executive Catherine Ryder, Vice Chair Claire Higgins, Chair Matthew Walker, and myself, along with Kate Dodsworth, Chief of Regulatory Engagement and Will Perry, Director of Strategy from the Regulator of Social Housing.
The meeting provided valuable insights into the evolving regulatory landscape. Kate and Will shared perspectives on:
- The evolving relationship with the new government and potential policy shifts.
- The sector's financial health, considering the impact of rising costs and the publication of Global Accounts.
- Progress on consumer regulation and the new inspection regime.
- Recent casework and key learnings.
The Global Accounts show the sector continues to increase its investment in existing homes, but we know from our conversations with members that the ambition to build new homes and contribute to the government’s 1.5 million homes target remains strong. This presents a significant challenge, as lower margins and interest cover may necessitate strategic trade-offs.
At Placeshapers, we firmly believe that the pursuit of future growth must never compromise the quality of existing homes. We remain committed to supporting our members in navigating these complexities while prioritising place-shaping and supporting thriving communities and doing all we can to make the case for regeneration.
To assist our members in navigating these challenging times, we will continue to foster communication, connection, and collaboration. Our popular Chairs Network provides a valuable platform for members to discuss challenges and share best practices in a safe and open environment We are delighted that the Regulator will be joining one of these network meetings in the coming months.
Many of the chairs in the network came to our New Year Leaders event. I hear the room was buzzing with 35 chairs and chief executives from all around the country. I know from when I attended the Spring Leaders event last year, it is a unique space to come together to talk, network and be inspired. I know that we are planning similar events this year so please make sure that you make it to a future event if you are able to.
Please explore the Placeshapers website for more information on the Chairs Network and details of how to register.
The future undoubtedly presents a landscape of increasing risks and financial challenges. However, by working together and leveraging the expertise within our network, we can effectively address these challenges and continue to deliver high-quality housing and vibrant communities.
If there is anything in this blog you would like to discuss further or if members have areas they would like us to raise at future regulatory meetings, I’d be delighted to hear from you.