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Using Accreditation to Raise Standards: An Example. Simon Kemp National Code Administrator. What is Accreditation?. A voluntary process which landlord/provider agrees to join A means of differentiating ‘good’ from ‘bad’ landlords/providers A local initiative to deal with specific needs?
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Using Accreditation to Raise Standards: An Example Simon Kemp National Code Administrator
What is Accreditation? • A voluntary process which landlord/provider agrees to join • A means of differentiating ‘good’ from ‘bad’ landlords/providers • A local initiative to deal with specific needs? • Different approaches taken so meaning is diluted? • ANUK’s 4 core values to accreditation devised
Core Values to test Accreditation Schemes by • Require a declaration – landlords/providers to publicly declare membership • Need to be verified – to maintain provider and consumer confidence in scheme • Not set in stone – capable of adapting to new and improved standards • Allow for complaints – via a transparent and inclusive system
Declaration Required • Annual renewal required – with details of any changes to property list • Providers to notify tenants of properties covered by the codes and details to appear on website (EU requirement) • List of members posted on ANUK website and submitted to CLG on an annual basis
Verification • SAQ used to identify areas of perceived strengths and weaknesses in standards • All members visited once every 3 years to check compliance • Improvement plans agreed if shortcomings are identified • Reports also highlight good practice
Continuing Improvement • Benchmark standards that exceed legal requirements – mainly management stds so plenty of scope • Standards are reviewed on a regular basis to take account of new legislation, best practice and new demands/products • Full consultation before alteration of standards
Complaints Procedures • In the first instance the tenant/s and the provider should aim to resolve any problems that arise. • If resolution is not possible, or there is a serious breach of health and safety, then tenant/s can access National Codes Complaints Procedure • Complaint will be investigated and both parties will be able to state their case in writing. • A Complaints Tribunal Panel exists – with representatives of providers and tenants – and is chaired by someone independent of the CoM • Tribunal Panel will make final decision on whether the Codes have been breached and, if so, what action may be taken
How are standards being raised? • Providers and consumers aware of benchmark management standards expected • Clear which providers have an on-going commitment to meeting high standards • An independent verification process checking compliance and identifying best practice • Access to an independent complaints procedure