Virtual College addresses fresh challenges in the housing sector
2013 will bring numerous changes and challenges to the sector which is why a leading training specialist is carrying out research to establish what is causing the sector most concern and how housing providers intend to deal with the issues they face.
Virtual College, said: “We are talking to social landlords across the country about how they think they will have to change their interaction with tenants and amend their business practices to manage their concerns.”
These concerns include the demand on housing stock, clarity surrounding funding, the green deal and of course, Universal Credit. Housing e-Academy says it will share the results with its partner, the Chartered Institute of Housing, who will in turn be able to use it in its own research and development.
“Funding and income could well be top of the agenda if our initial research is to be believed,” said Chloe. “Our clients tell us they are worried about the impact on their income when Universal Credit is introduced. In addition, the affordable rent programme comes to an end in 2015 and the uncertainty around the future of funding for social housing is also a headache.”
The rise in statutory homelessness has disproportionately affected families with children, according to a Crisis report and changes and cuts to benefits could mean increased traffic to housing associations who are already struggling to cope.
“We want to know what housing demand is like and how long waiting lists are across the country,” said Chloe. “Are the housing providers themselves worried about this issue or is increased homelessness simply a newspaper headline?”
“We are not aware of any other research that asks these questions all in one place,” adds Chloe. “If you want your voice to be heard then please take ten minutes to complete our online survey at www.housingea.co.uk. All entries will be entered in a free prize draw to win an iPod Nano.”
The results of the survey will also be used to influence future training courses available from Housing e-Academy which prides itself on offering e-learning that is up to date and relevant for its customers.