Reed urges RSH to consider how regulatory framework and engagement with registered providers can "better reflect importance of new supply"

In a letter to the RSH’s Chair, Bernadette Conroy, and its incoming Chief Executive, Jonathan Walters, Reed said: “Delivering the biggest increase in the supply of social and affordable housing in a generation, along with ensuring a transformational and lasting change in the safety and quality of homes, is a critical mission of this Government. As you will both know, the regulation of social housing has a key role to play in delivering this.”

The Secretary of State noted that Conroy had outlined plans to engage stakeholders in a discussion about regulatory practices which takes account of sector changes and Government priorities.

“I ask that through this process you actively consider what more the regulatory system can do to encourage and support the sector to deliver the increase in social and affordable homes that this country needs,” he said.

“I would ask that this includes consideration of how the regulatory framework and the engagement that the Regulator has with registered providers can better reflect the importance of new supply, as well as how the Regulator can ensure that its practices support increased investment into the sector.

“This should be achieved while of course continuing to hold providers to account for delivering high-quality and safe homes and services.”

Walters has held several roles at RSH and its predecessor organisations including Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Strategy.

He will take up his appointment from the start of May 2026. 

Bernadette Conroy, Chair of RSH said: “I am delighted that the Secretary of State has approved the appointment of Jonathan Walters as Chief Executive. This comes at a crucial time for the social housing sector as, against a backdrop of global uncertainty, the country needs a step change in the delivery of new homes and an improvement in the quality of existing homes and services.”

Harry Rodd