Our ongoing political engagement
In the lead-up to the general election, we’ve been engaging with candidates from across our region to discuss the need for a long-term plan for affordable housing.
Members of our Executive Team travelled to Westminster to take part in a roundtable discussion alongside Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation and Lloyds Banking Group among others.
The discussion focused on what more can be done to champion the social housing sector and ensure the next government commits to a long-term plan.
The event was hosted by Matt Warman, then-MP for Boston and Skegness, and was attended by representatives from the offices of other MPs.
Julie Doyle, our Chief Executive, said: “The demographic has changed significantly. People are living for longer and with many more issues around health and wellbeing, whether that be physical disabilities or mental health.
“We need to create a chance for the sector to think differently, and I know that’s difficult. Some of the more creative solutions are expensive ones and can fall by the wayside.
“It really worries me that people aren’t linking housing and health, so I think we need to look at opportunities for ensuring the properties we build, and our existing ones, can be adapted for people as their lives and needs change.
“By having a long-term approach to providing affordable and accessible housing, and linking this in with public health and the significant impact it can have on the public purse, we can make a difference.”
We also met with Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Wellingborough and Rushden, Gen Kitchen.
During this meeting, we had engaging and productive discussions which covered a range of topics including how we can better understand the services our customers need now and in the future, and how the housing sector can work more closely with local and national government to provide more affordable housing.
This discussion was also attended by representatives from Greatwell Homes and Grand Union Housing Group.