The role of the board

The Board has ultimate responsibility for the control of the affairs of Westfield Housing Association, including the Footsteps Nursery.  It exercises this responsibility in accordance with the National Housing Federation’s Code of Governance 2020 and Code of Conduct 2022, the main principles of which the Board has adopted, with derogations necessary to ensure compliance with the Rules of the Association and the needs of the Association.

The Board shall:

  • Establish and approve the strategic direction of WHA, including its vision and values, strategic objectives and financial business plan.
  • Contribute to the development and oversee the implementation of WHA's strategies and policies.
  • Ensure compliance with WHA's objects, in particular that the Association maintains its strong community and tenant focus.
  • Establish a culture that is positive, focused on the needs of current and future residents and their communities, other customers and key stakeholders, and embeds equality, diversity and inclusion in the organisation.
  • Ensure a risk management framework and appropriate systems of control exist to protect the assets and reputation of the Association.
  • Ensure appropriate systems of control and reporting exist to ensure the Board to evaluate whether WHA is operating effectively, efficiently and economically.
  • Satisfy itself as to the integrity of financial information, and setting and approving each year's budget, business plan and annual accounts prior to publication.  
  • Provide oversight, support, direction and constructive challenge to the organisation's Chief Executive Officer and other executives.  
  • Keep up-to-date with own specialist area of knowledge or expertise and with other relevant matters, including any Lead-Champion role and responsibilities.
  • Contribute to sub-committees and/or project groups as required.  
  • Participate in annual individual and group appraisal of Board performance.
  • Respect and ensure commitment to WHA policies, including equality, diversity and inclusion.
  • Uphold the values and objectives and act as an ambassador for WHA.  

Openness, Transparency and Accountability

The Board shall conduct its business in an open and transparent way, ensuring that it is at all times accountable to tenants and other customers. This shall include, but not be limited to:

  • Preparing an annual report on its activities as part of the annual Financial Statements;
  • Publishing Chief Executive remuneration details as part of the annual Financial Statements.

The Board shall seek comment, feedback and, where relevant, representation from tenants and / or customers of Footsteps Nursery before taking decisions fundamental to the Association’s provision of homes and services.