We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded a C1 grading in relation to consumer standards by the Regulator of Social Housing, to sit alongside the G1 (Governance) and V2 (Viability) gradings awarded after our inspection in May 2024.
Following last year’s inspection, Great Places was initially given a C2 consumer standards grading, with improvements required in relation to the Safety and Quality Standard. We had already identified that we needed to make changes in this area, and had plans in place through our Corporate Plan, called Here For Our Customers, to improve our data that we hold about the condition of our homes.
One other area that the Regulator wanted to see improve was the number of outstanding actions from the fire risk assessments that we’d undertaken. Customer-facing colleagues from across the business have all played a role in supporting our Building Safety team to address these actions, which have now significantly reduced, and helped provide the evidence and reassurance needed to achieve the C1 regrade.
The Regulator has also re-confirmed our existing grade for governance at G1, which is the highest rating available, and confirmed our viability grade at V2, meaning we are a financially sound organisation with the financial viability to meet our commitments around delivering services, and invest in new and existing homes.
Commenting on the regrade, Cath Purdy, Chair of the Great Places Board, said:
We are delighted and proud to now be officially recognised with a C1 rating, and would like to thank customers, colleagues and the Regulator for their efforts in helping us achieve it. It was assessed on evidence-based assurance gained about our improved understanding of the condition of our properties, and the consequent improved outcomes for customers. Meeting and exceeding these targets is really important to us as it helps us to make truly data-driven decisions that allow us to provide the best-possible services to our customers, ensuring we’re focusing on the right things that will make a real impact into the long-term.
Alison Dean, Chief Executive at Great Places, added:
We work hard every day to provide safe and warm homes for our customers, and are constantly improving our processes, technology and culture to make sure that they’re underpinned by the data and insight that will help us make the right decisions for those living in our homes and communities. We’re thrilled that the Regulator has recognised the progress we’ve made in this area, but know this will never be a finished job as the needs of our customers will keep evolving and we’ll have to keep pace. This regrade is testament to our commitment to keep delivering high-quality homes and services, and I’d like to thank everyone involved for their ongoing efforts.
