East Lothian Council has achieved a Gold accreditation for scrutiny from TIS in partnership with Scotland’s Housing Network in recognition of its tenant participation work.

Launched in 2016, the accreditation programme harnesses expertise to measure performance and highlight the initiatives social rented landlords are taking to lead the way and sustain tenant scrutiny throughout Scotland. It recognises a level of tenant participation, engagement, and influence by a standard of gold, silver, or bronze.

Together with a number of tenants, East Lothian Council celebrated its achievement with an afternoon tea event last week, fittingly coinciding with Scottish Housing Day, which aims to raise awareness of the latest developments across the sector.

TIS chief executive, Ilene Campbell, was delighted to award the council with the highest standard of accreditation at the gathering.

She said: “This level of award reflects the relentless dedication and commitment of East Lothian Council to deliver the very best housing services to tenants.

“Never before has it been so crucial that tenants work together with their landlords to have their say and influence service, standard, and policy decisions. Their robust methods of partnership working makes it clear to see that tenants are at the heart of shaping the Council’s future.”

Scotland’s Housing Network director, Elaine Byrne, said: “Tenant scrutiny provides landlords with a valuable insight into where scarce resources should be prioritised, so that performance levels and rent affordability are properly aligned.

“I am delighted that one of our Network members is being recognised for their commitment to tenant scrutiny at the highest level.”

East Lothian Council submitted an impressive portfolio of information that evidenced their efforts to maintain and strengthen scrutiny.

An independent panel of assessors reviewed the data and formed a final audit report which hailed the council’s commitment to encourage tenants to steer policy and make an impact on developing the housing services that they receive. The report also commended the council’s efforts in successfully developing a scrutiny framework that meets their vision of maximising tenant involvement.

East Lothian Council’s cabinet spokesperson for housing and community wellbeing, Councillor Jim Goodfellow, said: “We are delighted with this award, which recognises the hard work of staff and the huge commitment of our tenant volunteers to help shape the excellent housing service we deliver. We need to continue our journey to ensure we maintain these high standards and deliver the services that our tenants expect.”