“Without strong governance, all of the tremendous work our members undertake would not be possible”
An interview with Alan Stokes, SFHA Policy Lead.
Alan Stokes is SFHA’s Policy Lead on Governance and Regulation. Ahead of this year’s Governance Conference, we asked Alan why governance is more important than ever.
How important is strong governance for housing associations?
Strong governance has always been at the heart of our sector, and it underpins everything we do. Without strong governance, all of the tremendous work our members undertake to provide high quality housing and services to their customers would not be possible. It ensures organisations are self-aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and are able to plan for the future to ensure continuous excellence. Whilst the governing body is central to achieving this and leading the organisation, it is crucial to highlight that governance is about the whole organisation – and the interaction between staff and the governing body is one of the key aspects to get right in achieving this. To acknowledge this, a few years ago we changed our Governance Conference so that it was open to delegates not just from governing bodies, but also staff members. This was a great success, and provides a wider range of perspectives and networking opportunities for delegates attending the conference.
Why do you think governance is moving up the agenda for housing associations?
Governance has always been high on the agenda for housing associations, and now never more so. Changes in legislation such as GDPR and the forthcoming extension of FOI to housing associations make strong governance imperative to ensure an organisation is in a position to implement these new requirements. The Scottish Housing Regulator is currently reviewing its Regulatory Framework, and it is clear that governance is at the forefront of this process, with additional requirements such as Assurance Statements being developed. Having in place robust self-assessment processes, and independent assurance such as internal audit, is crucial to ensure that appropriate checks and balances are in place. We are delighted that all of these topics will be covered in depth at this conference.
What are some of the key challenges housing associations are facing in terms of governance?
In addition to those I have already mentioned, succession planning is one of the key challenges facing housing associations, both in terms of staff and governing body members. There are many key staff across the country in our sector reaching retirement age, which means RSLs need to be thinking about how to plan for this to ensure the business can effectively replace the talented member of staff that they will be losing. Attracting and recruiting governing body members is also a key challenge for the sector, as is finding ways to ensure the correct mix of skills and knowledge on the governing body. SFHA has commissioned Linda Ewart to produce some guidance on the subject, and the second day of the conference will focus on succession planning and practical examples from the sector.
What are you most looking forward to at the conference?
Getting the chance to speak with the broad mix of governing body and staff members who are attending from across the country, and learning from their vast experience.
The SFHA Governance Conference is taking place on 7 and 8 September at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Glasgow. Residential places start at £460 for SFHA members. You can also attend as a day delegate from only £195. Book two places and receive a third day delegate place for FREE!
Don’t miss this opportunity to network with staff and governing body members from across the country. To book your place, please visit www.sfha.co.uk/whats-on. Book now to avoid disappointment!