The Rochdale-based housing association at the centre of the Awaab Ishak scandal has appointed a new chair as they attempt to 'rebuild trust' following the tragedy.
Kevin Brady, who started his role on Tuesday (April 18), has a 'broad range and depth of experience in both housing, central and local government,' according to Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH). In a statement, Mr Brady spoke of the 'huge challenges' faced by the organisation, but said he was 'delighted' to take on the job.
The association has faced harsh criticism after the tragic death of Rochdale toddler Awaab Ishak, who died aged two after becoming ill from prolonged exposure to mould and damp in his RBH-managed flat.
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The shamed landlord was downgraded by the housing regulator last year after an investigation found the landlord had waited two years to conduct checks on other properties following Awaab's death, leaving hundreds of tenants living with harmful damp and mould.
Mr Brady's predecessor Alison Tumilty, quit just minutes after the investigation by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH), which slammed RBH, saying it 'does not have confidence that RBH is treating other tenants with fairness and respect'.
He will play a 'vital role' in implementing the landlord's 'recovery plan' and 'rebuilding trust', according to RBH.
"I am delighted to be appointed as the new Chair of the RBH Board," Mr Brady said in a statement. "Although there are some huge challenges ahead, I am looking forward to working with RBH employees and tenants to make sure that we deliver our recovery plan and make sure that we provide the high quality homes and services that our tenants and communities expect and deserve.
"As a resident of Middleton, I know how important it is that the Borough's main social housing provider is strong and successful."
"We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Kevin Brady as the new Chair of the RBH Board," chair of the nominations committee Jonathan Wenn added.
"Kevin is a long term resident of the Borough and brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to his new role. The nominations committee were very impressed with Kevin throughout the process. We are glad he is joining RBH and look forward to working with him as we meet the challenges RBH faces."
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