Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements (STAIRs) - Publication scheme

The new Decent Homes Standard (DHS) set by the Government has been designed to ensure that all rented homes in England are decent, safe and warm. To be decent a home must meet the following 5 criteria:

• Criterion A: Free from the most dangerous hazards
  The home must not have any serious Category 1 hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), such as severe fire risks, dangerous electrics, or extreme structural faults

• Criterion B: Reasonable state of repair
  Key building components (like the roof, walls, windows, doors, and heating systems) must be in sound condition and not suffer from major disrepair

• Criterion C: Core facilities and services
  The property must provide essential amenities, including a properly laid-out kitchen and an appropriately located bathroom/WC (with extra requirements for noise insulation or common areas in blocks of flats)

• Criterion D: Thermal comfort
  The home must have efficient heating and effective insulation to maintain a reasonable indoor temperature, aligning with energy efficiency standards

• Criterion E: Free of damp and mould
  Added as a new explicit requirement, a property fails the standard immediately if it has unremedied damp and mould, regardless of its overall physical condition

100% of our homes meet this Decent Homes Standard.

Over the next five years, we will invest in our homes, estate infrastructure and community spaces to ensure they remain safe, sustainable and fit for the future.

Our planned investment programme will be informed by our stock condition surveys and will prioritise building safety, regulatory compliance and the long-term condition of our homes. We will deliver a phased programme of improvements to meet the new Decent Homes Standard and improve the energy efficiency, warmth and comfort of homes where practicable. This will include a fabric-first approach to energy efficiency alongside the development of a long-term heating strategy.

We will use the findings from our stock condition surveys to help determine the timing and priorities for future investment and will keep residents informed about planned works that affect their homes.

The Estates Team maintain the woodlands, other outdoor areas and shared spaces throughout the village. Their work is often responsive to the seasons and changes in climate and wildlife. They are responsible for maintaining gardens, pathways, green spaces, and communal areas to ensure they are safe, clean, and well presented. By caring for the village environment, the team helps create a pleasant, welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

Discover how we approach Estate Management by reading the Estates & Facilities Team section in the Resident Handbook here

We believe that residents' voices are central to shaping the future of our community. We are committed to ensuring that residents have regular opportunities to share their views, influence decision-making and help shape the services and facilities that matter to them.

Resident Engagement Sessions are held throughout the year, providing villagers with opportunities to hear about the Trust's plans, ask questions and contribute their ideas and feedback. 

Our monthly News Bulletin, delivered free of charge to all residents, keeps villagers informed about the latest Trust news, developments and events across the village. You can read back issues of the Bulletin below.

We also regularly invite residents to share their views on proposed changes, new initiatives and ideas for the future. Through these ongoing conversations, we aim to foster an open, inclusive community where residents feel listened to, valued and involved in decisions that affect their lives.

The Trust works closely with the WVRC (Whiteley Village Representatives Committee) and regularly attend their Committee meetings, consult with them on some of the decision-making and organise events together. 

The Resident Voice Panel is responsible for providing independent, resident-led scrutiny of the Trust’s performance, acting as a critical friend helping to improve services, quality, accountability and outcomes for residents. This puts residents at the heart of the Trust’s decision-making contributing to the co-design of service improvements and policies.

The Panel reflects the broad demographics of our village with members serving two years before re-election. Meetings are roughly quarterly with ad-hoc meetings taking place when the need arises. Free transport is provided for any resident who needs it  and the Trust will work with any resident to ensure their access needs are met.

To read the Resident Voice Panel terms of reference, click here

Panel members provide valuable feedback on the accuracy, clarity and tone of our content, helping us ensure that information is accessible, appropriate and relevant to our residents.

By involving residents in the development of our communications, we help ensure that their voices are heard and their perspectives are reflected in the information we share.

As at the end of September 2026, the Trust owns and manages 263 almshouse cottages and 51 extra-care flats at Huntley House, providing homes for older people of limited means.

Residents of our almshouses and Huntley House are beneficiaries of the charity rather than conventional social housing tenants. They pay a Weekly Maintenance Contribution (WMC) and, where applicable, service charges towards the cost of providing their accommodation and services.

The Trust also owns a small number of market-rented properties, which generate income to support our charitable activities