In its response to the Scottish Housing Regulator’s consultation on a new Regulatory Framework, CIH Scotland has welcomed the continued focus on openness and transparency in data collection and sharing.

Supporting whistleblowing and upskilling of staff and board members should also help to ensure that issues are spotted and resolved without the need for intervention whenever possible, it added.

The proposals set out in the consultation include the introduction of a new Annual Assurance Statement to be submitted by all social landlords. In developing these Statements, landlords should set out how they are meeting regulatory requirements or identify areas where more work is required. Reactions to this proposal have been broadly positive. However, feedback from CIH members suggests that further clarification of some aspects and more practical examples would be beneficial.

CIH Scotland’s response also highlights the importance of supporting board and committee members to build up the skills they need to ensure that people with a range of experiences, including tenant representatives, can continue to play an active role in the sector.

CIH Scotland policy and practice manager, Ashley Campbell, said: “We think that we have a fair and transparent system of regulation in Scotland but of course it could always be better. This review of the regulatory framework presents an opportunity to ensure that staff, governing board and committee members have the skills and confidence they need to be able to scrutinise performance and ask the right questions.

“It is also important to make sure that the information we share with tenants and customers is meaningful and accessible. All social landlords need to make the best of their resources and provide value for money and this includes making sure that they are communicating effectively with tenants and customers, not just publishing information to comply with a regulatory requirement.”

The consultation closed on December 14.