Who we are
The Somerset West Private Sector Housing Partnership (SWPSHP) is a Partnership between Sedgemoor, Taunton Deane and West Somerset to deliver the private sector housing functions of the District Council. The Partnership was set up in October 2007 between Sedgemoor District Council and West Somerset Council. Taunton Deane Borough Council joined in April 2010.
The Partnership is responsible for delivering grants (principally repair grants and low interest loans); Disabled Facilities Grants; enforcing housing standards; voluntary Landlord Accreditation Scheme; bringing empty properties back into use and energy efficiency/fuel poverty.
The work of the Partnership is bound together through the over arching principles of the Private Sector Renewal Strategy and its associated sub strategies and policies.
Since the Partnership has been operating, the performance and capacity of Sedgemoor and West Somerset (the original two members) has improved at the same time as enabling cost savings to be achieved. Overall, between 2007 – 08 and 2008 – 09. Service delivery savings of 30% in Sedgemoor and 56% in West Somerset were made. In the same periods, performance improved by 68% and 87% respectively.
Evidence shows that membership of the Partnership has increased capacity, resilience, procurement, performance and management capabilities on private sector housing grants and enforcement standards. It provides a robust structure in which these services can be operated more efficiently and with reduced costs.