Navigating the Supported Housing Regulatory Changes: What it Means for Creed Housing and the Sector in 2024
The specialised supported housing sector in the UK has entered a new phase in 2024, spurred by new regulations and stricter standards. At Creed Housing, we are committed to meeting these new expectations while continuing to provide high-quality housing and care for vulnerable individuals, including those with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges.
The Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023
The Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023 has now fully come into effect, bringing substantial regulatory changes that will shape the future of supported housing. Introduced as a response to widespread concerns about poor-quality exempt accommodation, the Act aims to enforce higher standards for care and accommodation. It does so by mandating the creation of National Supported Housing Standards that will govern the quality of both housing and support services provided.
These standards are expected to focus on the condition of the accommodation, as well as the support offered to tenants, ensuring that all providers meet consistent, high-level care requirements.
While the government is still finalising some of these guidelines, the introduction of these standards is expected later this year following ongoing consultations with stakeholders, including housing associations and care providers.
Licensing and Accountability in 2024
One of the major reforms in the Act is the licensing requirement for supported exempt accommodation providers. This ensures that only qualified, responsible providers can operate in this space, helping to eliminate subpar housing services. The licensing will be enforced locally, with councils tasked with ensuring compliance.
At Creed Housing, we’ve always prioritised the quality of our accommodation and care, and these changes align with our mission to deliver safe, secure, and well-maintained housing for vulnerable individuals. As a long-term owner and operator of specialised supported housing, we welcome these changes, which further establish trust and transparency between care providers and the communities we serve.
The Role of the Supported Housing Advisory Panel
The government will also create a Supported Housing Advisory Panel, which was expected to be in place by June 2024, but is still to be confirmed. This panel will play a critical role in providing ongoing advice on supported exempt accommodation to policymakers and local authorities. The panel will include representatives from across the sector, such as social landlords, care providers, and residents, ensuring that a broad range of perspectives inform decision-making. The consultation on the standards and licensing system has been delayed, partly due to the election, but MHCLG has engaged stakeholders as the Act will impact supported accommodation providers.
Confusion persists, with some local authorities imposing early requirements. However, the appointment of Minister Rushanara Ali, responsible for supported accommodation, offers hope for progress.
Local Authority Reviews and Supported Housing Strategies
Under the new regulations, local authorities are now required to review the supported exempt accommodation available in their areas and develop a five-year housing strategy. These strategies will guide the development of housing that meets the future needs of vulnerable individuals, ensuring there is adequate provision in place.
Creed Housing is actively engaging with local authorities to ensure our housing solutions meet these evolving requirements.
Creed Housing’s Response to the Changing Regulatory Environment
As a trusted developer of specialised supported housing, Creed Housing is well-positioned to navigate these regulatory changes. Our longstanding partnerships with local authorities, Registered Care Providers (RCPs), and housing associations allow us to ensure that our housing projects not only comply with but exceed the new standards.
Moving forward in 2024, we are also investing in smart home technologies and sustainable housing solutions that support independent living. Innovations such as health-monitoring systems, energy-efficient designs, and sensory-friendly environments for individuals with autism will remain a key focus in our upcoming projects.
What This Means for Tenants and Families
The new regulatory framework is set to raise the bar for housing providers, ensuring that vulnerable adults receive the quality of care and accommodation they deserve. At Creed Housing, we have always been committed to providing more than just a place to live. Our focus is on creating homes that foster independence, dignity, and well-being.
We invite you to stay informed through our blog, where we will continue to share updates on the sector and our ongoing projects.
