Key themes emerging from the review:
- The benefits of a holistic approach to decency in the dwelling, combined with long-term programmes and funding. This will avoid false economies associated with piecemeal interventions.
- Resident engagement is key to building momentum around Decent Homes 2, and building trust, especially for works that may not have obvious immediate benefits to residents.
- Localised coordination and collaboration is needed to achieve economies of scale, coordinate skills and training strategies, and to bring the private rented sector up to the new standard.
- There are merits to a tiered standard looking beyond the front door to the wider neighbourhood, and a staggered approach to implementation.
- There is a need to plan for the legacy of any Decent Homes 2 programme, safeguarding the investment made and maintaining compliance with the new standard.
Commenting, NHC Executive Director Brian Robson, who sits on the DLUHC Decent Homes Review Sounding Board said:
“We must ensure that future programmes of investment in decency and net zero deliver maximum benefits for tenants, neighbourhoods and landlords. The CaCHE team have done a great job reviewing the evidence from the last programme and presenting lessons for policy-makers and practitioners. The task ahead is about much more than just setting a new Standard – it’s about developing a holistic long-term approach to delivery.”
Report author Michael Marshall, of the University of Sheffield, will join leaders from the NHC membership on 3rd November to discuss the findings at a virtual webinar. Book your place using MyNHC.
