Supporting Vulnerable Households in the Rented Sector Spotlight Session
Course aim
The aim of this course is to equip learners with an overview of the knowledge and practical skills to support vulnerable households in the private rented sector. It will explore the key risks associated with this tenure, give an overview of the policy and legislative framework that protects tenants, and provide clear, actionable guidance on how frontline staff can respond effectively.
Audience
This spotlight session is designed for frontline workers and energy advisers who support vulnerable households, particularly in the private rented sector. It is especially relevant for those providing practical advice and support to tenants experiencing issues such as cold homes, high energy bills, damp, mould, and housing insecurity.
Course objectives
- Explain why vulnerable households are often at greater risk in the private rented sector.
- Describe how HHSRS, the Decent Homes Standard, Awaab’s Law, MEES, the Warm Homes Plan and the Renters’ Rights Act connect in practice.
- Recognise common issues such as cold homes, high bills, condensation, damp, mould and delayed repairs.
- Give practical advice on energy use, support schemes, landlord communication, escalation and referral routes.
Course content
- Introduction to vulnerability and risk in the private rented sector
- The “Healthy Homes” policy umbrella, including an introduction to:
- Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and hazard identification
- Fuel Poverty Strategy and its focus on affordability, vulnerability, and health
- Warm Homes Plan and its role in long-term housing improvements
- Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in the private rented sector
- Decent Homes Standard and expectations of housing quality
- Awaab’s Law and the management of damp and mould
- Renters’ Rights Act and tenant protection from eviction
- The relationship between housing conditions, energy costs, and health impacts
Bringing it all together: understanding how multiple issues (cold, damp, affordability, insecurity) interact in real-life situations.
Delivery method
The course is delivered online via webinar.
Duration
1.5 hour (spotlight session)
How will the webinar work
Our webinars are delivered live by our expert tutors.
We typically use Zoom for these sessions. To join, learners will need a device with internet access, sound capability, a webcam and a microphone.
As this is a spotlight session, speakers will not have the opportunity to answer questions throughout the session. All questions will be collated, and a Q and A document will be sent to attendees after the event, summarising any further information required.
After the webinar, learners will also receive a handout booklet summarising the key topics covered during the course.
Date and time
See booking form below for latest dates.
Fees/funded places
Places are available free of charge to non-commercial organisations based in England and Wales (such as local authorities, housing associations, advice agencies, etc.). Learners must also be frontline staff or volunteers who encounter and provide advice to those in or at risk of fuel poverty.
For those not eligible for a funded place, fees start from £55 plus VAT. A full list of fees are outlined on the booking form below.