[Upgrades from C2 to C1]

In August, Community Gateway Association was upgraded to C1, having given a C2 rating following an inspection in July 2025.  The organisation had provided evidence-based assurance that it had made improvements to health and safety compliance systems, as well as evidencing continued strong performance in this area.  Evidence was provided to show that board reporting on assurance relating to compliance with the Decent Homes Standard had been improved, and that board oversight of the safety and quality of its homes including decency, damp and mould, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, had been improved.  It had provided evidence that it was delivering an effective, efficient and timely repairs, maintenance and planned improvements service and that it was meeting its own performance targets.  It had also improved how it communicates with its tenants about repairs.  The organisation had continued to increase its awareness of its tenants’ diverse needs, and was using this information to inform how it delivers services.  An increase in disability, health and reasonable adjustment data had enabled it to further tailor its services at an individual level.

In August, Livin Housing was upgraded to C1, having been graded C2 following an inspection in November 2024.  The organisation had a better understanding of the condition of its homes, including compliance with the Decent Homes Standard through continued progress in its stock condition survey programme, and this information will be refreshed on an ongoing basis.  It was using this data to inform decision making on the future investment needs of its stock.  It had also revised its asset management plan, improved reporting to the board on the condition of its homes, and improved its engagement with customers to improve access rates. 

In August, East Midlands Housing Group (EMHG) was upgraded to C1, having been previously rated C2 following an inspection in November 2024.  Since the inspection, EMHG had provided the regulator with assurance that it is taking tenants’ views into account through a number of different mechanisms, and that these views are taken into account in its strategic decision making about how services are delivered. Tenants have meaningful opportunities to contribute to decision-making at group board level, including through the Resident Influence Committee, which reports directly to the Group Board.  It had also provided evidence that enhancements to its customer contact service had improved performance and responsiveness, contributing to a sustained reduction in complaint volumes.  It had also shown how the learning from complaints was informing further service improvements.