Distributed to
All registered social landlords (RSLs) (excluding co-ownership societies) and local authorities.

Summary
Introduces the Corporation's regulatory requirements for assessing RSLs' proposed constitutional and structural partnerships with other RSLs.

1 Introduction

1.1 This circular introduces regulatory guidance which sets out:

2.1 The regulatory guidance accompanying this circular sets out the approach the Corporation will take in assessing RSLs' constitutional and structural partnership proposals. The term "partnership" is used throughout the guidance as shorthand for the various constitutional arrangements that can be used to link formally RSLs. The guidance does not cover arrangements which are entered into for specific projects or service arrangements such as management or development agreements.

2.2 The guidance focuses on the Corporation's regulatory requirements. To complement and build upon this guidance, the Corporation has commissioned, via an Innovation & Good Practice grant, publication of good practice advice by the National Housing Federation.

2.3 There will be different ways for RSLs to meet the guidance depending upon the nature and size of their partnership proposal. The paper also emphasises:

3.1 Please direct any enquiries regarding this circular and the regulatory guidance to the Regulation Team in the relevant Corporation regional office.

3.2 Further information on the formal consents procedure can be obtained from the Registry and Consents Section at the above address.