The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and the Charity Commission recently published a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) setting out how the two organisations will continue to work together. It details the ongoing framework for communication, cooperation and the exchange of information between the parties.
Many private registered providers of social housing are also registered charities, which is why both organisations have agreed to establish an MoU that sets out how they can collaborate to carry out their respective functions and duties. They hope this will result in a more efficient and effective working relationship.
While the MoU doesn’t impose legally binding obligations, both the RSH and Charity Commission have agreed to work in accordance with its provisions. All staff will be made aware of the MoU and kept updated regarding their responsibilities.
The Memorandum includes commitments to:
- Share information in order to help each other discharge their regulatory functions.
- Raise issues at an early stage that might have significant implications for the other party.
- Signpost enquirers to the other organisation where appropriate.
- Discuss matters of mutual interest, including stakeholder engagement, and ensure consistency in communicating about each other’s roles.
- Avoid duplication and ensure consistent treatment for bodies regulated by both organisations, as far as possible within their respective roles.
- The Charity Commission and RSH will review this MoU every three years, or after a significant change in legislation, policy or practice in either party, to ensure that it reflects any developments and changes in working practices.
Source: GOV.UK
The MoU will be made public and placed on the Charity Commission and Regulator of Social Housing’s websites.
Fiona MacGregor, Chief Executive, Regulator of Social Housing, said: “We recognise the importance of working together with the Charity Commission to achieve both our respective objectives.
“This Memorandum of Understanding gives clarity over how we will share information with each other, which is important for a collaborative and effective working relationship.”
David Holdsworth, Chief Executive, Charity Commission, said: “This is an important commitment from both of our respective bodies. Charities are a vital part of the social housing sector, helping their beneficiaries access housing which meets their needs.
“By working together within our respective remits, we can help ensure the effective regulation of organisations which are both registered charities and registered social housing providers, including when concerns arise.”
Commenting on the announcement, Peter Luck, Managing Director, ROCC, said: “The Memorandum of Understanding is a welcome step in strengthening regulatory clarity across the sector.
“Strong collaboration between the RSH and the Charity Commission ensures a more consistent, transparent framework for providers, many of whom operate within both regulatory environments.
“For organisations like ours that support social housing providers, this alignment helps create a more stable foundation for delivering better services to tenants and communities.”
