Government approval for new code raising standards in retirement housing

A strengthened updated code designed to protect those living in retirement housing came into force on 1st June.   The code of practice, sets out the statutory obligations for managers and the best practice they should follow. This underpins the Association of Retirement Housing Managers (ARHM) aims and objectives for raising standards in leasehold retirement housing and consequentially improving the lives of older residents.   The news follows months of work with the Department of Communities and Local Government to update the previous Code. It has been amended to include seven new chapters, bringing greater transparency, increased engagement and also guidance on event fees.   The code will also promote a change in the relationship between manager and leaseholder, with strong focus on the need for engagement at key points of the leaseholder journey to purchasing a retirement property. Such changes will entrench the recommendations made by the Competition and Markets Authority as well as anticipating those expected from the Law Commission later this year.   Residents living in the 100,000 plus homes managed nationwide by ARHM members will have the additional reassurance that their manager can provide a professional and effective service to their residents, have appropriate training for their staff and are fair in their response to any concerns or complaints.    Richard Wheeldon, Chair of the ARHM, said: “That the new code has seven new sections is a clear indicator of the growing expectations of our ageing population and also the sector’s determination to be clear on their response to this.  

“We are delighted that there is now updated protection for residents and a new benchmark for our members to meet. The changes demand a better service for residents and also enables great managers to demonstrate their commitment to excellent service.

  “Compliance with the Code is a sign that a manager – whether private or a registered housing provider – is delivering to the highest standard. As a consumer, if you think your manager is not delivering a high standard, then the Code clearly tells you what you should expect should you need to challenge them.   “I would like to thank all our members and stakeholders in the sector who took part in the consultation process and also the Department for Communities and Local Government for their hard work in bringing this important document to fruition. We are proud that together we are raising standards in retirement housing.”    All leasehold retirement schemes should have a copy of the code available for leaseholders and their visitors. The Code will be made available as a public document so that it may be used by anyone needing guidance to help resolve a dispute with their manager. A free copy can be downloaded here.

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