ARCO, the national body for operators of UK integrated retirement communities, has appointed Karen McArthur as independent chair of its standards committee.

McArthur is an experienced non-executive director with a wide portfolio of standards work with statutory regulators.

The standards committee oversees the ARCO consumer code, a set of standards for operators that go beyond minimum legal requirements to ensure transparency and high levels of consumer protection in marketing, sales, lettings and resident relations. The code was implemented in 2015 and subsequently adapted to incorporate the recommendations of the Law Commission in 2017 relating to event fees.

ARCO’s chief executive Michael Voges said: “Karen’s appointment… is an important signal to older people, their families and the government that ARCO is determined to push for the highest possible consumer standards in older people’s housing. Karen brings a vast breadth of expertise and experience, and I look forward to working with her to propel the sector forward.”

McArthur commented: “Setting, maintaining and enforcing high standards is key for consumer confidence.  I’m delighted to be joining ARCO who are leading the way in this important sector. I’m impressed with their ambition and vision for older people housing and look forward to supporting them on their journey towards greater regulation.”