Governance and accountability
We aim to be open and honest about how we are run.
Governance and accountability
We aim to be open and honest about how we are run.
This page explains how Cottsway is governed, how decisions are made and how we make sure we deliver quality services and Value for Money for our customers. We are regulated and inspected by the Regulator of Social Housing to ensure we meet national standards.
How we are governed
Cottsway is led by our Board and Executive Team, supported by our Corporate Leadership Team. Together, they set our strategic direction, oversee performance and ensure we operate effectively and responsibly.
This governance structure helps us make informed decisions, manage risk and meet our responsibilities to customers, regulators and other stakeholders.
Board and Committees
Our Board
The Board is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction and governance of Cottsway. It sets our long-term priorities, approves significant decisions and oversees our performance, financial sustainability and risk management.
The Board also ensures we meet our legal and regulatory obligations and that the interests of customers, colleagues and stakeholders are considered in decision-making.
Some significant matters are reserved exclusively for the Board and cannot be delegated.
Our Committees
The Board is supported by three committees that examine key areas of the business in greater detail. They provide scrutiny, challenge and assurance, helping the Board make informed decisions and maintain effective oversight.
The Audit and Risk Committee oversees Cottsway's approach to risk, assurance and internal control. It helps ensure risks are identified and managed effectively and that appropriate systems are in place to protect the organisation's resources, reputation and long-term sustainability. Key responsibilities include financial reporting, internal and external audit, and health and safety oversight.
The Treasury and Finance Committee oversee Cottsway's financial performance and long-term financial sustainability, and ensures we comply with financial regulations and standards. It oversees financial and business planning and forecasting, monitors treasury management and borrowing arrangements, and helps ensure we achieve Value for Money.
The Customer Committee focuses on customer services and the customer experience, ensuring we meet regulatory consumer standards. It helps ensure customers' views are heard and responded to, monitors service performance and complaint handling, including compliance with the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code. The committee helps to ensure our services are inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of our customers.
How we are regulated and our governance standards
Our governance arrangements are supported by recognised regulatory and governance frameworks that promote accountability, transparency and effective decision-making, including:
- Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) - Regulates housing associations in England, setting standards for governance, financial viability and services to tenants.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) - Registers community benefit societies, including many housing associations.
- National Housing Federation (NHF) Code of Governance - Sets out recognised good practice for governance in the housing sector and helps organisations operate effectively and transparently.
Our regulatory ratings
We are rated G1 for governance and V1 for financial viability by the Regulator of Social Housing. We are yet to receive our first rating under the updated consumer standards and will publish our grading once this happens.
These are the highest ratings available and show that we are well run and financially strong.
We also have a credit rating from Moody’s, which reflects our financial position.
Declarations of interest
Board members are required to declare any personal or professional interests that could influence their decision-making.
These are updated annually and recorded on a register which is available for public scrutiny on request. Please email requests to: company.secretary@cottsway.co.uk
Director’s pay and management costs
We are open about how we spend money and how senior leaders are paid.
The measures below are set by the Regulator. They show:
- how much we pay our most senior director
- the total pay for all directors
- our management costs (the cost of running our housing services. This includes managing homes, supporting residents and delivering day-to-day services)
All figures are shown per home, so they are easier to compare.
| Measure | 2024-25 |
| Highest paid director (per home) | £30.60 |
| Total director pay (per home) | £101.40 |
| Management costs (per home) | £1,550.70 |
These figures are calculated using a standard method set by the Regulator to allow fair comparison between housing providers.
In future, we will compare our costs with similar housing providers so residents can see how we are performing.
Financial statements and annual report
You can find more detailed information about our performance, finances and governance in our latest annual report and financial statements.