FAQs

Is the Community Gateway only suitable for stock transfers?


No. This type of organisation can be used to manage council housing or to take ownership of homes as a registered social landlord (usually a housing association).

With registered social landlords, an organisation could be a not-for-profit limited company, an industrial and provident society, a stand-alone landlord or part of a bigger group structure.

Is this model suitable for parts of an organisation's housing stock, as well as wholesale transfer?


Yes. It can be used for some, or all, homes. Every neighbourhood or community's needs are different, so it's important to be flexible.

What are the main duties of a Community Gateway Association?


Initially, new associations usually focus on improving the condition of homes and some neighbourhood works. But over time, the organisation could develop a wider role in improving communities through regeneration.

What are the main steps involved in setting up a Community Gateway Association?


There are six steps crucial to getting started:

  • Build awareness among tenants, leaseholders, staff, councillors, the media and local communities
  • Decide which areas would be covered by the Community Gateway approach
  • Agree the size, legal structure and responsibilities of the organisation
  • Work with tenants and leaseholders to promote the model and recruit members
  • Set up the shadow board(s) for the new organisation
  • Develop a community empowerment strategy and business plan.

If stock transfer is likely, it's important to build community empowerment programmes in the offer to tenants and leaseholders.