The policy context for partnership working between local authorities and housing associations is reviewed, drawing on key literature and interviews with key stakeholders. The focus is predominantly on Wales, but England and Scotland are also considered.

An overview of the literature relating to partnership working is provided, focusing in particular on areas of relevance to CHAs and aimed at practitioner audiences.

Four common themes to arise from the literature are identified. Findings are presented relating to the areas where CHAs are and are not used, as well as issues relating to partnership working. Proposals for a revised form of agreement between local authorities and housing associations are set out.

Community Housing Agreements (CHAs) are voluntary agreements established between local authorities and registered social landlords. CHAs seek to provide a vehicle for more effective partnership working between local authorities and housing associations on shared priorities and objectives. Since the development of the model of CHA in 1998, the policy environment has changed considerably, therefore a review of CHAs was felt to be important in reconsidering their new role.

The research consisted of four key stages:

The research highlights a number of key themes which have gone on to inform the shape and content of the proposals for the way forward. It suggests that a revised form of community housing agreement plays a key role in strengthening the strategic housing function and moving forward

Welsh Assembly Government
Phone: +44 845 0103300
assembly.info@wales.gsi.gov.uk

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01/01/2007

Welsh Assembly Government

research

Urban Policy > Housing > Housing policy

Social housing