The First Ten!
Top Ten from the First Ten
In this review episode, we take a deep dive into the most pressing issues we've covered in our first 10 episodes. We revisit critical topics such as the troubling trend of over-censorship within the housing sector and the glaring gaps in training that prevent customer service teams from asking the right investigatory questions to streamline problem resolution. We also reflect on Pride Month, calling out the pinkwashing tactics some housing providers use to mask their shortcomings.
Our episode poses tough questions, like whether failing CEOs are spreading themselves too thin, and if housing providers are deliberately hiding issues to preserve their public image. We bring you two insightful interviews with Suz from SHAC, where we discuss the Golden Web and other systemic concerns. We also confront the troubling pattern of overcharging residents and debate whether these actions are due to genuine errors or something more sinister.
Furthermore, we revisit the heartbreaking case of Clair Southgate, a vicar facing eviction by her landlord, GreenSquareAccord, who claims they can no longer maintain the property. Lastly, we push back against housing providers who have abandoned X (formerly Twitter) under the pretext of avoiding hate speech, arguing instead that this move is a calculated effort to manage their online reputations more effectively.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode #10: Protesting and the X-Debate
In this episode, we dive deep into the growing movement of tenant activism with insights from SHAC, discussing the recent protests involving One Housing, Riverside, and Notting Hill Genesis. We reflect on the sense of community and positivity experienced during these events and explore the impact of housing association mergers.
We also address the ongoing controversy surrounding housing providers leaving Twitter (now X). Can these organisations really claim their feeds are overrun with hate speech, or is this a case of virtue signalling and poor brand management? We'll examine how your engagement shapes your feed and whether abandoning the platform is truly justified.
Additionally, we touch on some critical issues like the lack of prosecutions seven years after the Grenfell disaster, questions about GreenSquareAccord’s legal actions, and the necessity of dispensation lawyers. We’ll also discuss the accountability of failing CEOs and the potential benefits of cutting back on wages by removing underperforming staff.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode #9 - The Golden Web with Suz Muna from SHAC
In this episode of the Housing Sector Podcast, we delve into the intricate connections between housing associations and political figures with Suz Muna from SHAC. We explore the strategic appointments of politicians like ex-housing minister Gavin Barwell to influential positions within housing associations, such as Clarion Housing Group. Despite potential tenant opposition, these connections are seen as advantageous for steering government housing policies.
Barwell's political career, including his role as Minister of State for Housing and Planning and his involvement in the aftermath of the Grenfell fire, is examined. We also discuss the recent trend of housing executives becoming MPs following the July 2024 general election, highlighting figures like Andrew Lewin, Alan Strickland, David Smith, Sarah Russell, and Lee Dillon.
Key questions are raised about potential conflicts of interest, the influence of housing associations on policy, and the need for greater resident involvement and independent oversight. We also cover SHAC's summer tour, where protests outside major housing providers have united residents and pressured organisations like Southern Housing to reconsider service charge calculations.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode #8: The Human Cost
In this episode, we sit down with Clair Southgate, a dedicated volunteer vicar and teaching assistant, who faces the heartbreaking reality of being forced to leave her home of over 20 years. Clair shares her story of receiving a sudden letter from GreenSquareAccord, informing her that her home would be sold, without any further communication for five agonising weeks.
Despite promises from GreenSquareAccord to provide the statutory relocation grant, Clair's home, reportedly in better condition than others in the area, is inexplicably targeted for sale. GreenSquareAccord's inability to explain why Clair’s home must be sold, while damp homes in the village remain untouched, raises serious questions about their decision-making process. Their uncertain hopes of finding another resident willing to move to allow Clair to stay within her parish only add to the community's distress.
This episode delves deep into the mental health impact of this uncertainty on Clair and her community. We explore whether GreenSquareAccord is stigmatising residents of social housing and discuss the broader implications of their actions. Clair's home, which is economical to heat, is deemed otherwise by GreenSquareAccord, further complicating the situation.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 7: Rent & Service (Miss)Charges
In this episode, we support Bayo Dosunmu, CEO of Lambeth Council, following his arrest, and question the relevance of his Nigerian heritage in news reports. We then explore the critical issues of housing rents and service charges, highlighting cases of overcharges by UK social housing providers.
Clarion Housing Group, Your Housing Group, MTVH, Peabody, Southern Housing Group, Notting Hill Genesis, One Housing, and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust.
Already considered an ever-increasing cost that spirals further out of control year on year, residents now have to question if they are being illegally overcharged or if these costs are simply being mismanaged. One thing we can all ponder is whether this is just the tip of the iceberg.
We also offer advice on navigating service charge disputes, joining resident groups, and seeking legal support.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 6: Is To Succeed To Fail?
In Episode 6 of the Housing Sector Podcast, titled "Is To Succeed To Fail?", we dive into the critical aspects of the housing sector and what success truly means in this context.
I discuss my extensive background in improving customer service for brands like Porsche, BMW, and Lexus, where senior leaders focused more on their failures than their successes. By focusing on the shortfall, we can drive real success.
We tackle the complex issues of funding and grants for new housing developments, questioning whether these financial tools are truly benefiting communities as intended. The episode also sheds light on the controversial "Service Charge Swindle," where residents often pay for services they don't receive, leading to unsafe and uninhabitable living conditions.
We explore the unfortunate trend of selling deteriorated properties due to prolonged neglect, a practice that not only undermines community stability but also raises ethical concerns about the priorities of housing providers.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 5: Suz Muna SHAC
In the episode of the Housing Sector Podcast, we sit down with Suz Muna from the Social Housing Action Campaign (SHAC) to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing tenants today.
With the UK election on the horizon, housing policies are under the microscope. Suz offers a thorough analysis of the housing commitments—or lack thereof—in the manifestos of the major political parties.
Our conversation takes a deep dive into the service charge scandal that has left many residents feeling unjustly treated. Suz details how SHAC supports those caught in this predicament and shares her three essential pieces of advice for anyone contemplating withholding their service charges. She also warns about the potential legal consequences of such actions, offering critical insights into the steps residents should consider before making this decision.
Suz also discusses SHAC's proactive approach to advocacy through organising pickets at major housing associations. These pickets are more than just protests—they are opportunities for residents to connect, share their experiences, and build a robust network of support. Suz outlines how these events have galvanised communities and increased awareness of the systemic issues in the housing sector.
Housing Sector Podcast Episode 4: How Concerned…
In this episode of the Housing Sector Podcast, we dive deep into pressing issues affecting residents and frontline staff in the housing sector. Join us as we unravel critical concerns and seek actionable solutions.
Are our CEOs and senior leaders spreading themselves too thin? We explore the impact of leadership being over-committed to external boards and events, and the implications this has on residents' value for money.
From makeshift fixes like cupboard boxes over holes to persistent issues with dampness being merely painted over, we discuss how these inadequate repairs frustrate residents and why problems are often left unresolved. What does this say about our commitment to quality living conditions?
Frontline staff are the unsung heroes of our sector, yet they face low wages, undervaluation, and customer hostility. We address these challenges and spotlight the incredible dedication of customer service teams through our special initiative - nominating the most supportive team members.
Episode #3 Censorship, Pride & Awards
In Episode 3 of The Housing Sector Podcast, we delve into the reaction to our debut episode, which garnered over 848 views, thanks in part to GreenSquareAccord's repeated attempts to have it censored. We discuss the value of engagement over censorship and why open dialogue is crucial for progress in the housing sector.
As Pride Month wraps up, we scrutinise the trend of housing providers using rainbow logos—a move often criticised as virtue signalling. We also question the conspicuous silence around the 60th anniversary of D-Day and the lack of visible action from housing providers on the Grenfell tragedy’s seventh anniversary.
Our discussion further explores the disconnect between Housing Association awards and resident sentiments, shedding light on the protests that these events often incite.
Episode 2: Blocked Pipes, Raw Sewage, & Blame
In Episode 2 of The Housing Sector Podcast, we shine a spotlight on pressing issues that impact residents and the broader housing community. This episode delves into the vital work of the Social Housing Action Campaign (SHAC) in combating service charge abuse, exposes conflicts of interest among housing association executives, and highlights the persistent sewage flooding issues at a GreenSquareAccord property in Oxford.
Residents at a GreenSquareAccord property in Oxford have been grappling with the ongoing nightmare of raw sewage flooding due to blocked pipes. Through firsthand accounts, emails, and photographs, we reveal the severe impact on the community and question the systemic failures behind this recurring issue. This segment highlights the urgent need for improved maintenance and more effective management practices.
We draw critical insights from these issues to outline the essential improvements needed in the housing sector. Our discussion also touches on the debate of whether residents should be seen as customers or tenants and what this means for their rights and service quality.
Episode 1: “Why Bother?"
THE PODCAST GREENSQUAREACCORD TRIED TO BAN!
Welcome to the first episode of The Housing Sector Podcast, aptly titled "Why Bother?" In this debut, we explore the compelling motivations behind launching our podcast series and outline our vision for fostering a collaborative and supportive community within the housing sector.
Podcasting enhances our online presence, boosting SEO and allowing us to reach a wider audience. By strategically using keywords and hashtags, we aim to make our content easily accessible to those seeking insights and support in the housing sector.
Our podcast is a platform designed to offer valuable insights and support to residents. We address common challenges, share inspiring success stories, and provide practical advice aimed at improving living conditions and quality of life.
This podcast is a call to action for housing professionals dedicated to making a positive impact. We share best practices, innovative solutions, and expert opinions to inspire and empower those striving to drive change within the industry.