Martin Collett, Chief Executive
This year has been like no other experienced by English Rural. The international efforts mobilised in response to the Covid-19 pandemic were unprecedented. The success of these efforts relied on everyone, including housing associations, playing their part. The founding principles that guided our own business continuity response were to protect core business activity, whilst importantly keeping both residents and staff safe.
Martin Collett, Chief Executive, English Rural
Early interventions, forward planning, a tested business continuity plan and a sound financial business model ensured that English Rural can emerge from the pandemic experience with confidence. This is illustrated through a refresh of the Business Strategy, which sets an ambitious course towards meeting our purpose of building more affordable rural homes, whilst increasing investment in those already owned.
English Rural comes out of the pandemic a changed organisation. There has been a lasting impact on individual and organisational psychology; changes to working culture; a long term public financial legacy; a heightened vulnerability of low-income households and a shift in living patterns that make rural locations more accessible and appealing. Our refreshed Business Strategy has been prepared with this in mind.
The refresh principally focussed on reviewing challenges and opportunities to agree a clear future strategic direction. The direction arrived at presents a positive future for English Rural, with higher levels of investment delivering a programme of new homes in partnership with rural communities, as well as increased investment in existing homes and services, including improving the environmental sustainability of older housing.
English Rural’s bold and self-assured stance would not have been possible without continued strong financial health and performance. Advancing income streams through development activity, providing third-party services and delivering on value for money aims have all contributed.
The implementation of treasury strategy focussed on fixed low interest borrowing opportunities has also locked in financial gains. All of this means that more can be invested in our purpose.
Our Strategic Ambitions together with their Strategic Direction, can be seen over the page >>
