04 March 2005
Social landlords will have to draw up annual efficiency statements as part of a government drive to save £835m over the next three years.
The statements must be submitted by local authorities and the largest 500 housing associations.
Des Kelly, policy officer at the National Housing Federation, said the efficiency drive, outlined in guidance from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, complemented the federation's 'In business for neighbourhoods' programme.
Associations will have to provide the Housing Corporation with a snapshot of their performance, including rent arrears and procurement costs, although there is doubt about the full range of information that must be collected, he said.
Kelly pointed out that the biggest savings would be made in the building of new houses, which will be calculated by the corporation rather than individual landlords.
'We are not measuring cost savings but efficiency gains that remain with the association,' he added. 'It may be a problem working out gains when you are still spending the money.'
PFmar2005
