Damning Report into ALMO Fraud Allegations

Weaknesses leading to alleged fraud and corruption at a social landlord were allowed to ‘fester’ due to ‘ineffective leadership’, according to a damning report published by Hounslow Council. Staff at Hounslow Homes, an ALMO, used services and funds to undertake undeclared ‘extensive private work’ on at least five properties in 2011 and 2012 and found work for friends and family members, the report states. The independent report was commissioned by Hounslow Homes, following allegations of fraud by a whistleblower. Actions within the Direct Labour Organisation led to allegations that fraud was hidden through ‘intimidation’ and the ‘skilful elevation and deployment of a siege mentality’, says the report. Read more on Inside Housing.

Council Retains 'Optimised' ALMO in Tri-Partite Agreement

A London-based ALMO has agreed a "unique agreement" with its council to continue managing the local authority's 16,500 homes.  The tri-partite agreement between Hounslow Council, its ALMO Hounslow Homes and the tenants and residents will also see the ALMO able to deliver services to outside organisations to generate additional income.  The deal includes a protocol that will see the Hounslow Federation of Tenants and Residents Associations (HFTRA) becoming directly involved in delivering improvements to services.  An independent tenant scrutiny board is also being set up to strengthen tenants’ influence in how their homes and neighbourhoods are run.  Read more on Hounslow Council’s website.