Our Governance Model

WSHA operates a membership‑based, community‑controlled governance model led by an elected Management Committee.

The Committee provides strategic oversight, ensures regulatory compliance, and is accountable to both the SHR and the local membership.

WSHA’s governance is grounded in national SFHA model rules, reinforced by regular assurance processes, and aligned to strategic goals emphasising tenant engagement, community impact, and long‑term sustainability.

1. Legal Form & Regulatory Framework

WSHA is a registered charitable housing association operating under the Co‑operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 and the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010. Its constitution is based on the SFHA Charitable Model Rules (Scotland) 2020.

It is regulated by the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR), which confirms whether the Association meets the Regulatory Standards of Governance and Financial Management. WSHA is currently assessed as compliant.

2. Governance Structure

a. Membership

  • WSHA is a membership‑based organisation.
  • Anyone who supports the Association’s aims, meets eligibility criteria, and pays a £1 share may become a member.
  • Members exercise democratic control, primarily through participating and voting at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Special General Meetings.
  • Members elect the Management Committee, and the newsletter encourages tenant involvement through membership.

b. Management Committee (Board)

The Management Committee is the central governing body responsible for strategic leadership and oversight.

Composition & Appointment

  • Elected by the membership at the AGM.
  • Can include tenant members and other individuals with relevant expertise.
  • Co‑optees may be appointed to bring additional skills.

 Roles & Responsibilities

 The Committee is responsible for:

  • Setting the strategic direction.
  • Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Financial stewardship and oversight of risk.
  • Ensuring safe, high‑quality services to tenants.
  • Approving business plans and monitoring performance.

WSHA’s Assurance Statement confirms that the Committee undertakes evidence‑based oversight, monitors safety compliance, and commissions audits where needed.

Office Bearers

  • The Rules define specific responsibilities for the Chair, including leadership of meetings and acting on behalf of the Committee where necessary.

c. Committee Procedures

  • The Rules outline expectations for meetings, quorum, voting, conflicts of interest, minutes, and the use of the Association’s seal.
  • Sub‑committees may be established to oversee specific areas (finance, audit, services, etc.).

3. Regulatory Engagement

The Scottish Housing Regulator engages with WSHA to ensure:

  • Strong governance
  • Accurate and up‑to‑date stock condition information
  • Robust financial projections
  • Effective handling of senior officer changes

WSHA is required to submit annual regulatory returns (e.g., Assurance Statement, audited accounts, ARC submission).

4. Strategic Planning & Community Governance

WSHA’s new 2025–2030 Business Plan reinforces its governance themes:

  • Strengthened tenant voice and engagement in decision‑making.
  • Focus on community impact and partnership working.
  • Emphasis on sustainability and digital transformation.

This aligns governance with long‑term strategic priorities and community accountability.

5. Transparency, Assurance & Compliance

WSHA publicly reports on compliance through:

  • Annual Assurance Statements (confirming adherence to governance, safety, equalities and human rights obligations).
  • Public access to its Rules, governance documents, and SHR engagement plans.