Overview

This bill amends the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 to mandate minimum qualifications for senior management within social housing providers. It aims to improve the quality of management and services provided to social housing tenants.

Description

The bill introduces requirements for qualifications among senior management in social housing. This includes both direct employees of registered providers and those working for external companies contracted to manage social housing.

Specifically, it mandates that senior housing executives must hold at least a foundation degree or an equivalent level 5 qualification in housing management, or be working towards one. Senior housing managers must hold or be working towards an equivalent level 4 qualification. The bill defines "senior housing executive" and "senior housing manager" precisely, outlining their responsibilities and roles within the organization. It also clarifies how qualifications are assessed, referencing the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. Further, the bill introduces implied terms into management services agreements, requiring service providers to ensure their relevant managers meet these qualification standards and to report on compliance.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify government spending. The cost of implementing the new qualification requirements would likely fall on registered social housing providers. Any associated government expenditure is not explicitly detailed within the provided bill text.

Groups Affected

• Registered social housing providers: These organizations will be directly responsible for ensuring their senior management meet the new qualification standards. This could involve investment in training and recruitment.
• Senior housing executives and managers: These individuals will need to meet the specified qualification levels or actively pursue them, impacting their career development and potentially requiring additional study.
• External service providers managing social housing: These companies will also have to ensure their relevant staff meet the required standards, similar to the registered providers.
• Social housing tenants: The ultimate aim is to improve the quality of service provided, indirectly benefiting tenants through better management of their homes and living environment.

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