Mark Tillson
The end of our 2019/20 financial year was also the start of something nobody could have predicted. A global pandemic. This posed a number of challenges both for the organisation and the rural communities we serve.
However, our solid business continuity plans ensured we continued to deliver essential services to residents. Not only that, our residents rallied together to support each other and the wider community around them. During this time English Rural was very proud to be providing homes for low income essential workers, whose true value was recognised.
Despite an unpredictable end to the year, we have achieved a number of successes:
>> We are pleased to report a year-on-year increase in the number of affordable homes in rural communities by completing new developments at Bolney (Sussex), Warehorne (Kent), Roxwell (Essex) and Throwley (Kent). Construction continued at Mistley (Essex), Dunsfold (Surrey) and Ansty (Sussex). This comes as a result of a renewed development strategy and increased staff capacity.
>> Working together with rural communities ensures we deliver homes that meet a proven housing need, are well designed and maintained, and are safe and comfortable. More importantly they keep local communities thriving by allowing residents with a local connection to live in an affordable home, close to their family and support networks.
The strength and support we receive from local communities and the trusted partnership we have with them serves to secure the mutual resilience needed to overcome any local concerns.
>> English Rural's focus on 'fabric-first' principles, using good design and build standards, ensures homes are extremely energy-efficient and cost less to run. We are also committed to making sure our older homes are comfortable and use less energy as our retrofit programme forges ahead.
>> Our influencing role strengthens as we work with the Rural Housing Alliance to help steer national housing and planning policy. As a result, we have responded to critical government planning and housing consultations. I'm also pleased to say that our Royal Patronage has been renewed with HRH The Princess Royal continuing to be a strong advocate for the work we do. A revised communications strategy has also served to strengthen our reputation, reach and influence within the sector.
>> Staff capacity has increased and we continue to invest in skills training and technology, leading to the delivery of an improved service for our residents. Additionally, a new online resident portal gives residents more control over their repairs, their money and their communication with us.
>> Our work with the National Housing Federation's 'Together with Tenants' plan evolves with the introduction of a new digital Resident Scrutiny Group, increasing the representation of resident voices. Resident satisfaction levels remain high and we have exceeded our targets in critical service areas.
Why do we do what we do? Watch our video to find out.
Chairman
