15 July 2026
Interim Housing Ombudsman appointed
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has appointed current Chief Operating Officer, Andrea Keenoy, as interim Housing Ombudsman from 01 August.
Following a recent campaign for the next Housing Ombudsman, the minister has decided not to make an appointment at this time. The government will confirm next steps for the role in due course.
Andrea Keenoy will serve as interim Ombudsman in the meantime.
Andrea has held several roles at the Housing Ombudsman Service since joining the organisation in 2015. She has overseen the introduction of a new operating model, the expansion of our workforce from c.80 employees to over 600, and the development of a comprehensive Ombudsman service that achieves positive change. She previously served as interim Housing Ombudsman from 2018 to 2019.
Current Housing Ombudsman, Richard Blakeway, will complete his second and final term on 31 July 2026. During his tenure, Richard Blakeway has overseen significant changes to the service. These include the release of a nationwide Complaint Handling Code and gaining new systemic powers to improve landlords’ services and residents’ lives. He has been a powerful advocate for social housing and the benefits this vital sector brings.
|
