Purpose

The Homes and Neighbourhoods
service has undertaken a review of the governance model that
oversees how we deliver a safe and effective service to Council
Tenants.
 
This report to Cabinet sets out
proposed changes to the structure that supports Kirklees Council to
meet its regulatory obligations building on previous governance
arrangements.
 
 
In
the preparation of this report key stakeholders have been engaged
to seek their views.  This has
contributed to the development of the proposed option when
considered alongside strategic requirements and key points raised
on the review of risks.
 
Sector good practice has been
engaged via the attendance at specific governance training sessions
and networking events, including sessions hosted by the Regulator
of Social Housing, and the Association of Housing
Directors.  
 
The Homes and Neighbourhoods
Improvement Board were consulted on the Terms of Reference for
their Board on 5th August 2025, and 25th September 2025.
 
Relevant staff from within
Homes and Neighbourhoods, and staff who participate in the current
structure have been engaged throughout the review
period. 

Content

 

1)   
That the service risks as set out at paragraph 2.12 of the report
be noted.

2)   
That the proposed structure as set out at paragraph 2.14 of the
report be noted.

3)   
That it be noted that the proposal includes (i) the change of title
for Homes and Neighbourhoods Improvement Board to Homes and
Neighbourhood Assurance Board (ii) delegation of the decision for
timing of the name change to Portfolio Holder for Transport and
Housing and Executive Director of Place (iii) the broadening scope
of Homes and Neighbourhood Assurance Board to cover all areas of
regulation (iv) the continued importance of the Tenant Led Panel as
a bridge between the service and our tenant base (v) the addition
of two new officer operational boards (Housing Capital and Revenue
Investment Board and Service Quality Assurance Board) to cover
risks as identified in section 4.3 and (vi) he broadening of scope
of the Transformation Board to include data, and service culture
workstreams.