Homes Plus is one year old and what a year it has been!
The launch of the Homes Plus website brought the opportunity to do more online wherever our customers live and the new 0800 048 8955 telephone number is free to phone, 24/7. Now, there is just one number for rent payments, reporting repairs and getting advice.
In a year to remember for Homes Plus, we have developed much-needed affordable housing as well as improving, maintaining and repairing homes for customers.
We delivered high quality employment and training opportunities and were proud to be named Employer of the Year by a group of local colleges in recognition of the support we provide to apprentices. We were also delighted to see a Homes Plus tenant shortlisted for a national award for great neighbours.
A whole range of inspiring local groups have been supported by the Homes Plus My Community Fund, which provides grants for grassroots organisations who share our ambition to make a positive difference for homes, lives and communities.
Projects helped by the fund included the Harlescott Grange Community Hub in Shropshire, where local residents have transformed a disused building into a vibrant new community centre. We were delighted to provide funding for an energy-efficient boiler, ensuring a warm welcome for people using the building, all year round.
We also sponsored the Best Kept Village Community Competition in Staffordshire, supporting a popular contest which brought people and communities together after a long period of social distancing and separation.
Today, the Homes Plus My Community Fund is making a positive difference in towns and villages right across Staffordshire and Shropshire. We’re helping some amazing young people make music and backing a fantastic group of women who are taking-up football for the first time.
On the first birthday of Homes Plus, we would like to thank all the involved customers, tenants, local partners and colleagues who have made this such a great year. Together, we are looking forward to doing even more to transform homes, lives and communities in the weeks and months ahead.