Decision

1. 1

The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Services that presented the first quarterly Housing Assurance Report to the Housing Policy Committee in relation to the Council's housing landlord function. It summarised the key assurance activity undertaken during Quarter 1 of 2026/27, highlighting how the Council was embedding a more structured approach to oversight, control, risk management and governance across housing services, while work continues to formalise a comprehensive Housing Assurance Framework.

The report is intended to complement the Quarter 1 Housing Performance Report. Whilst the performance report focuses on service outcomes, key performance indicators, tenant satisfaction measures and operational trends, this report provided assurance regarding the effectiveness of the systems, controls, governance arrangements and improvement activity that underpin service delivery and support compliance with landlord responsibilities.

1. 2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY:- That the Housing Policy Committee notes the Housing Assurance update provided for Quarter 1 2026/27 (April – June 2026).

1. 3

Reasons for Decision

1. 3.1

The Housing Policy Committee has delegated responsibility for seeking assurance that housing services are operating effectively, managing risk appropriately, and delivering continuous improvement for tenants.

1. 3.2

The Quarterly Housing Assurance Report provides Members with a dedicated overview of assurance activity across the housing service, including key areas of regulatory compliance, governance, risk, performance oversight, and progress against improvement plans. This enables Members to gain a clearer understanding of the Council's assurance position, areas of strength, emerging risks, and the actions being taken to address identified issues and support ongoing service improvement.

1. 3.3

The report also supports transparency and accountability by providing evidence of the Council's arrangements to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and deliver safe, effective and well-governed housing services. Relevant assurance information may also be shared with external bodies, including the RSH and the Housing Ombudsman, as part of wider scrutiny and assurance arrangements.

1. 4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

1. 4.1

Housing assurance activity has previously been reported through the Quarterly Housing Performance Report to the Housing Policy Committee. Continuing with this approach was considered; however, introducing a separate Housing Assurance Report provides greater clarity and transparency for Members by bringing together assurance activity, key risks, control effectiveness, and areas requiring improvement in a single document. This enables more focused oversight of regulatory compliance, service assurance and improvement activity, while providing Members with regular updates on progress, challenges and emerging risks across the Housing Service.