Later life social housing provider hit with C3 governance grading by regulator

This came after an investigation found issues of serious regulatory concern.   

The regulator said it had found insufficient evidence that Anchor has an “appropriate, robust and prudent risk and control framework”.

The provider had also failed to adequately address key risks relating to landlord health and safety. 

Anchor was additionally found to have inadequate data and that its systems and processes are not fit to ensure key information is monitored and accurately reported. 

This grading follows a C3 consumer grading handed to Anchor in February after RSH found serious failings in its delivery of the consumer standards.

Anchor self-reported to the RSH after finding that its contractors were failing to complete electrical remediation work to specification and on time and identifying that damp, mould and condensation was not always being addressed properly. 

In a statement Anchor said it fully accepted the G3 judgement, adding that it was committed to delivering the improvements required to restore confidence in its services and governance processes.

“We apologise for the shortcomings identified and recognise the concern and distress they may have caused residents and their families,” it said.

The provider suggested that it had already made progress on addressing the issues identified, saying it had:  

• significantly reduced the backlog of electrical safety inspections and remedial works and remains on track to conclude the full plan during 2025;
• engaged technical partners in all its compliance areas as part of a comprehensive programme of assurance;
• reviewed its data, was strengthening its risk management framework and improving the accuracy of its reporting to support effective oversight;
• made changes to our governance structure and key executive leadership appointments in our asset, property services and governance, risk and assurance functions to drive cultural and operational change.  

Anchor added: “Our residents’ safety and trust remain paramount. Our focus remains on delivering safe, high-quality homes and services and ensuring our improvement plan continues at pace.”

Kate Dodsworth, Chief of Regulatory Engagement at RSH, said: “Good governance is critical for delivering good services and keeping tenants safe in their homes. All landlords need to make sure they have strong governance and controls in place in order to have a better grasp of strategic risks.

“Equally, delivering the outcomes of the new consumer standards is vital for tenants’ health and safety and making sure their voices are heard. Our programme of proactive inspections is helping bring issues to light so they can be put right as soon as possible.”

Other grades issued by the RSH this month include a C3 grading for Slough Borough Council for a lack of meaningful tenant engagement.

Slough also could not demonstrate how homes were allocated in a fair and transparent way

First Garden Cities Homes and Southway Housing Trust were both downgraded to a G2 governance grading and were regraded to V2 for viability. Both received C2 gradings.

Harry Rodd