We’re pleased to announce the launch of Chatticus, the new Homes Plus chatbot! 

The chatbot can be found on our website and is a new way of helping customers find answers to their questions and give them quick access to information. 

Through the new chatbot, customers can get information on a wide range of topics, from their tenancy to applying for a home, 24/7. 

Customers can still contact us by telephone and email if they prefer. 

Our chatbot can: 

• Give instant answers to questions 24/7, 365 days a year 

• Answer questions in seven different languages 

• Put customer queries through to a member of our team, during office hours, if it can’t find the answer to their question  

Members of our Customer Partnership Panel (CPP) were involved in testing the new chatbot.  

CPP member Chris says ‘it’s not something to be afraid of’. He said: “The chatbot answered my questions on maintenance and how to report a repair and I like how easy and simple it is to use. 

“It’s not overly complicated, you just go on, ask it a question and the answer will be there for you. It’s extremely useful. 

“It should make things a lot easier for customers. When you’ve got a quick question, it can be frustrating waiting for someone to answer the phone, but with a chatbot you do away with all of that and you get answers instantly to your questions which is what people are looking for. 

“A lot of people are still afraid of information technology, but they shouldn't be. Just go on the website, have a play and see if the chatbot can find the answer to what you’re looking for.  

“It will save you a lot of time and frustration.” 

CPP member Sam says Chatticus helped her find answers to her questions. She said: “It will save customers time as the phone lines can be busy, but now there will be an option to talk to the chatbot which will be able to find the answer a lot quicker than ringing up. 

"When it’s out of office hours, people will also be able to click on the chatbot to find answers to any queries they have when the office is closed. 

“It’s bright, colourful, clear and catchy. Just give it a go, have a try and if it doesn’t work for you, you can still ring up or email Homes Plus during office hours and there will be somebody there who can help you, but it’s worth a go.” 

Chatticus will provide quick and accurate answers to customers’ questions, with the aim of reducing response times and improving the customer experience. 

The new chatbot icon will appear at the bottom right corner of every page on the Homes Plus website. 

Customers can simply click the icon and a chatbot window will appear. They then just need to ask their question and Chatticus will guide them to the information they need.