Insights from the National Technical Officer Network Meeting

In this blog Foundations Regional Advisor, Tim English, reflects on the latest Technical Officer Network Meeting that included a case study on a new build, treatment of VAT, and updates on the sector including what was in the budget, installers network and recruitment.

Here’s a recap of the key discussions and takeaways. 

A Warm Welcome and Agenda Highlights 

The meeting kicked off with introductions to the guest speakers  and an outline of the session, which included: 

• A case study on a new build project. 

• Updates on the latest technical officer training opportunities. 

• Insights into working with suppliers. 

• Sector updates, including budget changes and upcoming initiatives. 

• A focus on issues raised to the network such as the treatment of VAT on adaptations in Council properties. 

Case Study: New Build Success

A featured highlight of the session was a detailed case study presented by Rachel Shalan on a new build project in Central Bedfordshire. It showcased the evolution of a home adaptation project from its initial design phase in 2016 to completion in 2020. The project underlined the importance of meticulous planning, technical expertise, and collaboration with a Housing Association in delivering life-enhancing adaptations. Attendees were also treated to visuals of completed ground and first-floor plans, demonstrating the tangible impact of DFGs. 

If you would like to showcase any of your work at the next network meeting, please do get in touch with me at [email protected] 

The Role of Training in Enhancing Competence 

Clive Chamberlain from M4 Property Solutions emphasised the critical need for robust and effective training in the housing adaptations sector. The discussion covered: 

• The benefits of tailored and certified training programs. 

• Key topics like asbestos awareness, working at height, risk management, and water hygiene. 

• The necessity for qualified tutors and engaging, relevant content to ensure value for money (VFM). 

Attendees were encouraged to evaluate their current training providers for competence and suitability, keeping in mind the importance of staying updated in a rapidly evolving sector. 

Clive can be contacted via email:  [email protected] and Telephone: 07557 309961  

Sector Updates and Budget News 

A major highlight was the announcement of an additional £86 million for Disabled Facilities Grants in the 2024 Autumn Budget, increasing the total allocation to £711 million. This funding boost is expected to enable local authorities to provide 20-30 more adaptations per year on average, marking significant progress in supporting older and disabled individuals. 

Additionally, the launch of the Home Adaptations Installer Network aims to raise standards of quality and trust in the industry. Local authorities were invited to join this initiative, whether by leveraging the network or integrating existing resources. 

You can find out more by visiting the link here: Home Adaptations Installers Network for Local Authorities | Streamline DFG Work 

Call for Action: Community of Best Practice 

The Building Safety Act continues to play a pivotal role in shaping standards for buildings at height. Foundations issued a call to local authorities to collaborate in developing a community of best practice to address these unique challenges. 

Please contact me at [email protected] if you are interested in helping developing guidance around this important issue. 

Share Your Success Stories 

The meeting also emphasised the importance of shifting the narrative around DFGs by sharing success stories. Highlighting positive outcomes can counter negative media portrayals and showcase the transformative impact of home adaptations on individuals and families. 

Please do send through your success stories so we can promote them through all our social media channels to [email protected] 

Looking Ahead 

The session concluded with an invitation for attendees to propose topics for future meetings and a discussion of outstanding issues such as the treatment of VAT on Council Homes. If you are looking to speak to someone around this issue, please contact [email protected] 

The December meeting reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared learning in enhancing the effectiveness of home adaptation services. By bringing together guest speakers and your expertise from across the sector. The next network meeting will take place over Teams on the 20 March from 1pm-2.3Opm.  

I hope to see as many of you as possible and in the meantime do keep in touch with any agenda items or case studies that you would like to share. 

Stay tuned for updates from the upcoming events by joining the national Technical Officer Network, you can sign up via this link,  Our Networks | Foundations NETWORKS