This year, we provided more opportunities for older people to live independently and improved the household income of customers by £2.8m. We helped tenants into employment and tackled digital exclusion in our community hubs.
Fairness at our heart
As a social landlord, the principles of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) matter to everyone at Homes Plus. Together, they mean that we provide our homes and services fairly, invest in communities and offer advice and support to help people live their best lives.
This year, we created an ambitious EDI plan to help us make sure that everyone has a fair chance of achieving great places to live and work.
We are very pleased that customers helped us to write our EDI plan, setting-out our responsibility to provide services that are accessible, fair and respectful for customers, regardless of your background, identity or circumstances.
Success for specialist housing development
We are working to address the housing crisis locally, by developing new homes meeting a range of needs.
As well as building new homes for individuals and families to rent or buy, we are offering more choice for older people who want to continue living independently.
This year, The Burgesses, our purpose-built apartments for older people in Kinver, was shortlisted for a top award. The new scheme was one of the national finalists for the Best Older People’s Housing Development prize in the Inside Housing Development Awards.
Residents of The Burgesses were closely consulted about its design, helping to create the easily managed, safe homes and fantastic facilities.
Warm spaces
The rising cost of living meant that many of us were worried about energy bills. Last winter, a network of community organisations, churches, libraries and businesses opened their doors as safe and friendly ‘warm spaces’.
Lounges in some of our retirement living communities in Stafford, Stone and nearby villages offered a warm welcome, along with a hot drink and a biscuit.
We were very pleased to be part of the Stafford Borough Council Warm Spaces initiative.
Help and advice are part of our Homes Plus services
There’s a reason for the plus in Homes Plus.
It’s what sets us apart as a not-for-profit landlord, determined to make a positive difference to homes, lives and communities in Staffordshire and Shropshire.
As well as being a trusted provider of affordable homes and care services, we’re here to do more for our customers, offering free and confidential services like employment and money advice, as well as support and investment for our neighbourhoods.