An update!
I'm excited to share a brief update on the latest developments at www.housing.sector.co.uk. Last month, I embarked on a six-month sabbatical, and now I want to bring everyone up to speed on the latest developments with the website and our plans for the future.
Balancing platform development with a full-time job has been a challenging journey, requiring significant time and resources. Now, with a solid foundation and key players in place, the next stage demands my full attention, focus, and energy.
In addition to this, I've been entangled in legal battles with my own housing provider, who have been attempting to stifle freedom of speech and silence any form of negative criticism. This unfortunate situation has strained both time and resources, diverting resources that should have been allocated to property repairs.
Over the past 18 months, I've built a network of incredible individuals. I extend my gratitude to those who have shared their expertise and support. Together, we are fostering a community of dedicated professionals determined to reshape the future of housing associations, with the ultimate goal of making all homes safe, warm, and dry.
There has been justified negative press about the state of UK social housing, it's crucial to acknowledge the tragic loss of life in recent years. Although it may be naive to think we can eliminate all risks, we must equip ourselves with the right tools, the right people with the right attitudes and mindsets, skilled with the abilities to respond to situations effectively and compassionately.
Conversations with technologists and lawyers specialising in housing disrepair have been ongoing, exploring the potential of new tech and understanding the legal ramifications. My network of housing champions continues to grow, with individuals passionate about advocating for their neighbours and fellow residents, striving to rectify issues with housing providers.
It's essential to recognise that many social housing residents, often single parents or caregivers, lead busy lives and may lack the time for prolonged complaint processes. Luckily, there are numerous housing champions working tirelessly to improve and support our communities.
In the upcoming weeks and into the New Year, we aim to better support residents housing champions, and housing providers, by providing tools that will bridge the gap that separates us.
With housing champions, technology, and legal backing in place, we are poised to make a positive impact and contribute to the well-being of social housing residents and providers, as well as offering the opportunity to provide bespoke customer service training built around discovered shortcomings.
The journey of www.housing.sector.co.uk has been both challenging and rewarding. As I embark on this six-month sabbatical to focus on the website's next crucial stage, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to its development.
As we move forward, addressing the challenges in the UK social housing sector, we invite you to join the conversation. If you are someone passionate about improving social housing, your insights and support are valuable.
Feel free to connect with us if you have further information to share or if you're seeking support.
Together, let's make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of social housing communities. In 2024, let’s work to ensure every home is safe, warm, and dry.
Thank you for being a part of this journey.
Ben
CEO & Founder
Housing Sector
Ben@HousingSector.co.uk