All together now . . . Housing Associations and CDRPs
Introduction
This summer, Housing Associations will see a change to their legal status in relation to the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships (CDRPs) operating within their area.
Since the establishment of CDPRs in accordance with the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, Housing Associations have had a tier 3 status of invitee. This tier 3 status means the Housing Association could be invited to participate in the CDRP by existing members of the CDRP. Practically this has lead to varied involvement between Housing Association and CDPRs ranging from active participation to no contact at all.
In the summer the legal status of Housing Associations will change to a tier 2 duty to co-operate. This duty to co-operate in the CDRP will require Housing Associations to assist in the development and delivery of the objectives set out by the CDRP's crime and disorder reduction strategy and to co-operate fully in the audit and strategy functions of relevant authorities.
It is considered that this change will place Housing Associations at the heart of the decision making process and therefore have the potential of strengthening information sharing and ensuring Housing Associations have a voice in deciding local priorities around crime and disorder. As a corollary Housing Associations can then be compelled to provide assistance with regard to crime, disorder, drug and ASB issues to the CDRP.
To date the initial guidance does not provide full details on the mechanics for this change. There is an indication that it may be possible, in areas with multiple Housing Associations, to engage with the CDRP by way of a consortium.
The initial guidance also does not deal with the resources Housing Associations can expect to use in fulfilling their duty to co-operate with the CDRP. The extensive scope of the duty seems to indicate it has the potential to be considerable.
More information on the mechanics of the change will no doubt be available in the run up to the summer. In the meantime, Housing Associations may want to contact the local CDPR in their area to get a first taste of what might be involved.
If we can help you please e mail housing@ashfords.co.uk or telephone 01392 33 4104 and we will arrange for one of our specialist team to assist you.
Ashfords is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. The information in this article is intended to be general information about English law only and not comprehensive. It is not to be relied on as legal advice nor as an alternative to taking professional advice relating to specific circumstances.
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