Chief Executive of Sutton Housing Partnership Peter Dolan said, “This report recognises the improvements we have made to our services.  Although we are disappointed not to have received a two-star rating, my staff and I have a clear timetable in place for making the improvements recommended by the Audit Commission.  We are one hundred per cent committed to providing residents with a service that offers value for money and meets their diverse needs effectively and consistently.”  Giving customers good value for money was one of the recommendations made by the Audit Commission. 

Sutton Council’s Executive Member for Housing Colin Stears welcomed the report, saying “Sutton Council takes very seriously our obligation to residents. We will be working closely with Sutton Housing Partnership to ensure the programme of improvements is carried out in full.  The Council is increasing the amount of capital resources for investment in council housing next year to help, but we know that a two-star rating is essential to securing extra funding.  We intend to be robust in ensuring tenants and leaseholders receive the best possible services."  The report recognises the strong working relationship between Sutton Council and Sutton Housing Partnership. 

Chair of the Sutton Federation of Tenants and Residents Associations Jean Crossby, said, “As chair of SFTRA and a tenant myself, I am very aware of how important it is to make sure that the quality of service provided to residents continues to improve and that we can influence how services are delivered. I will be working closely with Sutton Housing Partnership and Sutton Council to make sure the Audit Commission’s recommendations are implemented.”

Chair of the Board at SHP John Morton said, “We are pressing ahead with the improvements identified as necessary for achieving a two-star rating in the next inspection which will allow us to unlock much-needed government funding.”