The critical shortage of housing is stopping councils acting earlier to prevent homelessness

Francesca Albanese, Head of Research and Evaluation at Crisis, reflects on the success of the Homelessness Reduction Act and asks what more needs to be done to support those facing homelessness. 

Are you ready for Rural Housing Week 2022?

Rural Housing Week, taking place 4-8 July, is our opportunity to put levelling up in a rural context.

Why we stand with refugees this Refugee Week

Fuad Mahamed, Chief Executive Officer of ACH reflects on why we must continue to support refugees and provide opportunities for people to thrive in the UK.

Celebrating 50 years of Pride at Stonewall Housing

Tina Wathern, Director of Education and Engagement from Stonewall Housing reflects on their impact on the Pride movement over the past 50 years and outlines the future ahead.

Honouring the Windrush generation for their contributions to Britain

Read a blog from Olive Jones, Director of People, NHF which marks Windrush Day 2022 and the 74th anniversary since the Windrush generation arrived in the UK.

This Refugee Week we can all play our part and help those arriving in our communities to heal

Part of the trauma of a refugee experience is the loss of your home; part of the healing, therefore, must be securing a safe home in order to build a new life.

Celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month

Boris Worrall, Chief Executive of Rooftop Housing and Chair of the National Advisory Panel on Gypsy Traveller Housing reviews the progress made in housing for the Gypsy and Traveller community.

How supported housing helped me get back on my feet

Rianne Benjamin, resident at Christian Action, reflects on the support she received and how it's helped her take the first steps towards a new career.

Carers Week 2022 - coming out from behind the scenes

Natalie Quilter, Diversity Inclusion and Wellbeing Lead at Notting Hil Genesis opens up about her personal story as an unpaid carer.

How to be a trans ally?

To celebrate Pride Month Joanne Lockwood, Associate, HDN shares her top tips on how to become a trans ally. Watch the video and learn more.

Top tips on how to become a Disability Confident employer

Watch a video from Kathryn Jones, Diversity and Inclusion Lead from Aster Group who shares some tips on how to become a Disability Confident employer and help to create a more inclusive social housing sector.
 
 
 

What did we learn from Climate and Sustainability in Housing 2022?

Ewan Fulford from our Policy team rounds up of the key themes and messages from Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2022.

Home Group’s hospital discharge and mental health services

Rosie Lynch provides an insight into Home Group's Hospital Discharge Service offering housing advice and support for patients recovering from mental health difficulties to live in the community, make a home and achieve a better quality of life.

Social housing residents must not pay the price of the energy crisis

The energy crisis and cost of living increases are causing severe financial difficulties for many housing association residents, and are also driving up costs for housing associations themselves.

Changing culture and leadership with Together with Tenants

Angela Gascoigne, Chief Executive of SHAL Housing explores the importance of changing culture and leadership for housing associations to successfully adopt Together with Tenants. 

Why the NHF Code of Conduct still matters

James Tickell, Partner at Campbell Tickell, explains why the launch of the NHF's updated Code of Conduct is more important than ever at a time when the sector is under scrutiny.

This Earth Day, we examine the latest developments in climate policy and what it means for social housing

Policy Officer Rory Hughes summarises the recent developments for the UK and for housing associations in the field of sustainability and decarbonisation.

What speaking to recently homeless families made me realise about allocating homes

Research Lead at the NHF, Bekah Ryder, explores what talking to recently homeless families for the recently published 'Housing homeless families' taught her about the process of allocating homes. 

What’s next for Together with Tenants?

Catherine Ryder, Director of Policy and Research, NHF provides a progress update on our Together with Tenants initiative helping to strengthen relationships between housing associations and residents.

Becoming a Disability Confident housing association

Sarah Miller, Chief Executive of Papworth Trust reviews how housing associations can become Disability Confident organisations.

Why autonomy and control are key to solving the staffing crisis

Autonomy and control in your work are one of the key elements that make a workplace an attractive place to be. Do we make enough of this in how we sell social care to a diverse spectrum of workers?

Celebrating women in social housing

Lucy Malarkey, Managing Director of WISH celebrates the contribution of women working in social housing as part of Women's History Month 2022.

#BreakTheBias – International Women’s Day 2022

To celebrate International Women's Day 2022 Olive Jones reflects on the importance of raising awareness against bias and taking more action to support women’s equality.

Tackling the LGBTQ+ youth homelessness crisis

To mark LGBT+ History Month Jotepreet Bhandal, Campaigns, Policy and Research Lead at akt reviews how can we tackle the LGBTQ+ youth homelessness crisis in the UK.

Without more support, the cost of remediating fire safety issues will be felt by those who can least afford it

Housing associations are committed to making homes safe for residents, but absorbing the costs can mean they have to delay other urgent work.

Not just because it’s right, but because it’s necessary to be better

Board member Nick Yandle explains how our board level equality, diversity and inclusion group is aiming to tackle some big challenges in the sector.

What will 2022 hold for our decarbonisation work?

As the energy crisis continues, our work on decarbonisation has a renewed sense of urgency, so it is worth recapping where we have come from and where it is going in the next few months. 

Social housing’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in 2022

Find out how housing associations can drive change in EDI this year by setting New Year’s resolutions using the key recommendations from our EDI report.

Raising awareness of disability in the workplace

Watch Gemma Waddington’s Vlog and learn about her personal journey leading to the creation of a diversity and inclusion group called Don’t Dis my Ability at The Hyde Group.

Why some of the answers to the social care staffing crisis lie locally

Sector leaders are reporting that staff shortages across all services are the worst they have ever known.

How can housing associations best help people off the street and into a long term home?

In the last year, the number of rough sleepers has fallen dramatically in London and across England. What made this radical change possible and, more importantly, how can we keep the momentum going and end rough sleeping for good?

Looking ahead at what 2022 might bring for supported housing

Supported housing is a workforce to be reckoned with - we have great values and a true sense of purpose We’re adaptable, hard working and most of all, we care.

The Thinkhouse board member blog: will our homes and services stand the test of time?

A summary of inspiring reports for board members on delivering high quality homes now and in the future. 

What will 2022 look like for social housing?

Our mission at the NHF is to understand and anticipate the critical issues affecting the social housing sector - here are some of the key issues on our radar.

How partnerships can help housing associations to tackle homelessness

As the Homelessness Lead for Bromford my role is deliver on our strategic goal ‘We want to improve social justice and play our part in reducing homelessness in our big four areas’.

How housing associations can continue their work to become actively anti-racist

Khalid Mair introduces the Social Housing Anti-Racism Pledge which is due to be launched in early 2022.

Tackling domestic abuse at Octavia Housing

Elizabeth Rowland, Housing Services Manager at Octavia Housing explains how they've got involved in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign to tackle domestic abuse. 

What do the Affordable Homes Programme 21-26 strategic partnership grant allocations tell us?

Nathan Pickles, Corporate Finance Consultant at Wharfedale Associates, takes a closer look at what the strategic partnership grant allocations mean.

What does the future look like for housing associations?

As part of our strategic review, Tristan Carlyon, Head of Research and Analysis, NHF reviews the external factors that may influence the work of housing associations in the next few years.

Tackling equality, diversity and inclusion in housing

A preview of the NHF'S Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Housing event on 9 December bringing together leaders from across the social housing sector to reveal the results from the first national picture of the diversity of the housing association workforce in England.

Westward Housing marks 16 Days of Activism against Gendered-Based Violence

To mark this year’s campaign against gendered-based violence learn how Westward Housing is raising awareness around domestic abuse. 

Why I’ve joined the Strategic Reference Group on Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse occurs in homes up and down the country - we need to ensure the social housing sector is part of the solution. I’m joining the conversation from a different angle: holding perpetrators to account and preventing harm.

How we’re promoting open and fair board recruitment at ForHousing

ForHousing has welcomed five new members to its board, including a new chair. Colette McKune (MBE), Chief Executive of ForHousing and Chair of the NHF’s EDI in Housing Group outlines the approach they have taken to ensure diversity in skills and background.

Net zero is no small feat but the government and housing associations share the same goals

Blog by Lord Callanan, Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

The Vulnerability Registration Service – how we’re helping to keep people safe

If an organisation knows about a person’s circumstances, they can make sure they're treated appropriately and with the duty of care they deserve.

What we learned from Michael Gove’s Select Committee appearance

Find out what the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities had to say about levelling up, planning, social housing and building safety.

Almshouses: the historic model, fit for the future

Almshouses have provided homes and support to the local communities they serve for over a thousand years, but there's still much to learn about them.

How housing associations can support veterans this Remembrance Day

Securing long-term funding and creating armed forces-friendly work places are key to ensuring veterans are supported by housing associations. 

What happened at the Summit Special Edition 2021?

Ed Barber, Policy Assistant at the NHF provides a roundup of the key sessions from our National Housing Summit event.

A truly flexible model of hybrid working will help us prepare for the next phase of the pandemic

Ruth Cooke, Chief Executive of GreenSquareAccord explains how a flexible model of hybrid working will help organisations prepare for the next phase of the pandemic.

emh – our experience with MMC and Building Better

Time Wade, Development Director of emh, talks to us about MMC, Building Better, and their challenges and plans for the future.

The route to decarbonising social housing is finally becoming clearer

Blog by Will Jeffwitz, Head of Policy at the National Housing Federation.

Purple Tuesday – how we’re improving the customer experience for disabled people

Find out from Mike Adams, Chief Executive Officer of Purple how they're using #PurpleTuesday initiative to drive improved customer experience for disabled people.

Black History Month interview with Olive Jones, Director of People, National Housing Federation

In this BHM interview, we catch up with Olive Jones, Director of People at NHF.

Planning for the future through our strategic review

Rhys Moore, Executive Director of Public Impact, NHF discusses how the NHF is in the process of crafting our next current business strategy shaped by a strategic review with a focus on what the longer-term future may hold for the social housing sector.

Black History Month interview with Llewellyn Graham, Chief Executive of Nehemiah Housing Association

In this BHM interview, we catch up with Llewellyn Graham, Chief Executive of Nehemiah Housing Association.

Black History Month interview with Cym D’Souza, Chief Executive of Arawak Walton Housing Association

In this BHM interview, we catch up with Cym D’Souza, Chief Executive of Arawak Walton Housing Association and Chair of BMENational.

Taking a robust approach to board data

Rose Klemperer, Senior Associate at Penningtons Manches Cooper explains the importance of the social housing sector taking a robust approach to board data to improve governance and better decision making.

Building trust with residents and the importance of transparency

Ramesh Malhan, Head of Customer Voice at Black Country Housing Group, reflects on how they've strengthened their approach to engaging with residents, and how to achieve trust and transparency.

Dispatches from the 2021 party conferences

Kate Henderson reflects on political meetings, party conferences, and the role the sector can play in levelling up, sustainability and achieving net zero.

Could your organisation be doing more to end homelessness?

In September, the Kerslake Commission published their report 'A new way of working: ending rough sleeping together'. Ahead of World Homelessness Day, and in response to the report's findings, Vicki McDonald explores what more housing associations could do to prevent homelessness.  

Let’s insulate our homes – and our country – from future energy crises

While social housing residents face a perfect storm this winter with the cut to Universal Credit and rocketing energy bills, climate action could help protect them against future energy crises.

Black History Month 2021 interview with Gina Amoh, Chief Executive of Inquilab Housing Association

For Black History Month 2021 we’re shining the spotlight on leading Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) figures in social housing. In this interview, we catch up with Gina Amoh, Chief Executive of Inquilab Housing Association.

Celebrating Black History Month 2021

The NHF is celebrating Black History Month 2021 by amplifying the voices and stories of Black colleagues from across the sector and within our own organisation.

What does the reshuffle mean for housing associations?

Our Public Affairs team take a look at what the new reshuffle could mean for social housing.

Discussing contents insurance with new residents – Sovereign’s story

Sarah Randall, Insurance Officer at Sovereign shares her tips on engaging residents to consider insuring their possessions.

No Place Left Behind: the role housing associations can play in levelling up

Paul Fiddaman, Chief Executive of Karbon Homes, shares his thoughts on the launch of the ‘No Place Left Behind’ commission report.

The UK housing crisis: could the Church have a key role in its resolution?

A Church of England report concludes that the current housing crisis in the UK is neither accidental or inevitable, and that we all must show a willingness to share the costs if resolving this crisis together.

Are you ready for Gas Safety Week 2021?

Sarah Hill, Engagement and Alliances Marketing Manager at Gas Safe Register explains the importance of Gas Safety Week 2021 and how you can get involved.

Preparing for the future of work

James Massey, Strategy Director at MRI Software, highlights some key takeaways from their recent event on the future of work and tech solutions for housing associations.

How retrofitting homes can reduce both residents’ energy bills and carbon emissions

The work at Platform are doing is a great example of the contribution housing associations can make to meeting the government’s climate change objectives. 

How can housing associations’ role as anchor institutions help prevent homelessness?

Neil Munslow, Housing Services Manager at Newcastle City Council, explains the key role that social landlords can play in preventing homelessness.

Help us build a national picture of diversity in social housing by completing our EDI data tool

Olive Jones, Director of People at the National Housing Federation (NHF) reviews how member housing associations can help us build a national picture of diversity in social housing by completing our EDI data tool.

Home Truths: what does housing in your local area really look like?

Find out more about how our updated tool can be used to highlight differences in house prices, rent and more, across the country.

Claiming Universal Credit during the pandemic: what more can housing associations do to help?

Justin Freeman, Director of Income Maximisation at ForHousing, explains the importance of involving tenants and hearing about their experiences with Universal Credit in order to make real positive change.

How Greater Manchester Housing Providers are getting ready for a post-pandemic world

Yvonne Castle, Chief Executive of Johnnie Johnson Housing, explores why housing is at the heart of coronavirus recovery plans across Greater Manchester. 

Is your organisation meeting the required financial services regulations?

Phil Elvy, Executive Director of Finance at Great Places Housing Group, explains why it is important for housing association staff who provide advice to residents on debt or household budgeting to be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority.

Environmental, Social and Governance reporting – our experiences of early adoption

Chief Financial Officer of Optivo, Sarah Smith, reflects on some of the challenges they've faced in producing their first Environmental, Social and Governance report.

How boards can take the lead on risk and assurance

Author of our new book on risk and assurance, Kelsey Walker, explains the importance for board members to go beyond their traditional financial risk management.

How are rural housing associations making a long-term commitment to their communities?

Today marks the start of Rural Housing Week, our annual campaign that celebrates the vital work that housing associations do in rural areas.

Three months into the decarbonisation project - what have we learned?

An update on the National Housing Federation's decarbonisation work.

Why we must all do more to support LGBTQ+ colleagues and customers this Pride month

Steven McIntyre, Chief Executive of Stonewall Housing, reflects on steps we can all take to be more inclusive this Pride month. 

Four years on from the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower: we must have a regulatory system that’s fit for purpose

Kate Henderson reflects on our continued work with government to shape the new regulatory system to ensure the safety of people in their homes.

Harry’s Pledge – the commitment to carers one year on

One year on from the launch of Harry's Pledge, founder Julie Doyle reflects on the progress the sector has made for those who need care and those who provide it.

How much does your housing association contribute to the local and national economy?

Find out using the updated Local Economic Impact Calculator.

How does lockdown lifting feel to residents in retirement housing?

The lockdowns have been particularly difficult for residents living in housing for older people. Find out more about how the roadmap for lifting restrictions is affecting residents.

The impact and response to coronavirus in industrial towns – the experience of Barnsley, South Yorkshire

Chief Executive of Berneslai Homes, Amanda Garrard, reflects on the impact of coronavirus in the Barnsley.

Our new decarbonisation project is already making an impact

We have been hard at work establishing the infrastructure for the project and want to update you on our work so far.

What does the Queen’s Speech mean for housing?

On Tuesday 11 May, the State Opening of Parliament took place. Find out more about the specific announcements for housing and what they mean for housing associations.

Election Update 2021: what the results mean for housing

Melanie Pope, Public Affairs Manager at the National Housing Federation rounds up the key takeaways from the latest elections.

Introducing extra governance support for smaller housing associations

An important part of our enhanced offer for smaller housing associations, ensuring you get great value from your NHF membership.

The road to improved engagement – Arches’ Story

Arches is on a journey to improve resident engagement and the adoption of the Together with Tenants Charter is an important step.

Five key takeaways from the Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2021 conference

With COP26, discussions about a green recovery and stronger climate targets, Climate Change and Sustainability in Housing 2021 was absolutely vital.

Working together with residents on the net zero carbon agenda

While housing providers across the country stress-test business plans and get to grips with the new technology needed to reach net zero carbon, are we doing enough to consider what net zero carbon means for people and places?

On the road to net zero: Hastoe Housing Association takes a step closer to Passivhaus principles as it sets out its New-Build Standard

Hastoe are setting new minimum build requirements for new homes above current building regulations.

Universal Credit in a time of crisis

Find out more about our research on income collection and support for tenants during the coronavirus crisis.

Creating a baseline for equality, diversity and inclusion

Find out why it's so important to have an EDI baseline in the housing sector with Sonja.

Getting it right: using data to deliver great equality, diversity and inclusion practices

We have so much data and what if we could be using that data to understand our equality, diversity and inclusion practices and how we could improve them? Now we can.

Prince Philip was a significant – and unsung – hero for social housing

In the critical years of the 1970s Prince Philip was Patron of the National Housing Federation and in the 1980s he became the NHF’s very active President.

Having somewhere safe and affordable to live must be part of post-coronavirus recovery plans

Francesca Albanese highlights three recent reports focusing on people experiencing homelessness and examines solutions to tackle systemic causes.

Net zero by 2050: a decarbonisation roadmap for housing associations

Announcing a major new programme of NHF work on decarbonisation.

How not to be having the same conversations on race in 10 years’ time

There were so many interesting and important sessions at the National Housing Summit last week, but one that has particularly stayed with me was ‘Rethinking the sector’s approach to racial equality’.

Reflections on Everyone In: when we work together as a sector there is nothing we can’t achieve

Martyn Hale from Citizen explains how a quick change of direction helped to protect homeless people in Coventry as part of the ‘Everyone In’ scheme one year on from its launch.

Five takeaways from the National Housing Summit 2021

The National Housing Summit 2021 reunited housing leaders from across the sector for four days of networking and debate. Read our five key highlights.

Our International Women's Day tips and advice

This week we celebrated International Women's Day and several female colleagues within our organisation would like to share their biggest tips and advice for other women in the sector. 

A new guide for housing associations to providing fantastic homes for Gypsies and Travellers

Tap into the huge expertise which exists among colleagues in the housing sector

How to tackle the rise in women at risk of homelessness and rough sleeping

Rough sleeping is dangerous for everyone, but the challenges faced by homeless women have been amplified by the coronavirus crisis.

We must make a renewed case to integrate supported housing and mental health services

In the months before the coronavirus crisis, more than 80% of adult critical care beds in England’s hospitals were occupied. Look Ahead has long advocated for out-of-hospital care, citing the improved physical and mental health outcomes experienced by the people we support.

Why it’s so important to encourage your minority ethnic tenants to complete the 2021 Census

If ever there was a more meaningful time to promote the completion of the national Census, then it is now, in 2021, when inequality is so high on the agenda.

The Homes at the heart campaign shows there is a new coalition of support for social housing

The campaign was a huge success thanks to everyone who helped make the case.

How the Naumann Initiative is changing lives

Having a place to call home is crucial ­– but couple that with secure employment and a chance to learn and progress, that’s how you really offer someone a future.

Unlocking brownfield sites through 'PropTech': a solution to the housing crisis?

There’s enough readily available brownfield land to deliver over 1m homes, so why are we not building the homes we need? Combining technology with new business models has the potential to completely restructure and evolve our industry.

Reflections over a year of coronavirus

The work that has been done over the past year is a huge testament to how much can be achieved when we work together.

Putting residents’ voices at the heart of decision-making

Bringing the voices of residents from all tenures, regions and life experiences into conversations about the direction of our organisations, and the sector as a whole, gives me hope for the future.

What’s next for the Future Homes Standard

Even though the challenges ahead are significant, the benefits are huge: warmer homes, cheaper fuel bills, healthier and happier residents, greener communities and a better planet.

To meet the UK’s targets for carbon emissions, we need long-term certainty for retrofit

The social housing sector is well placed to deliver retrofit at volume but the scale of the task ahead poses new challenges, notably the shortfall in long-term funding.

2020 illustrated the importance of investment in vital independent living

It’s been a really tough year and still I can look back fondly on the way we rose to the Covid-19 challenges in Silva Homes’ independent living schemes.

A winter like no other – how we’re limiting the spread of coronavirus across our services

How we’re limiting the spread of coronavirus across our supported housing and care services.

Housing associations’ commitment to preventing homelessness through the Commitment to Refer

Housing homeless and vulnerable people has always been a key part of what we do as a sector.

What the new Code of Governance means for housing associations with diversified structures

A code of governance is a vital tool to ensure all aspects of the organisation are guided by consistent principles of good governance.

Wrapping up 2020 - our top 12 moments

As the year draws to a close, we’d like to look back over the last 12 months and review some of the fruitful things that have come out of 2020, and look at what 2021's priorities will look like.

Housing associations built more homes in 2019/20 than in the previous four years – boosting employment and the economy

Prior to the impact of coronavirus, our members achieved the highest number of new homes completions, and started building the highest number of homes of social rent, since we began collecting this data.

Rising to the EPC C challenge

As part of the wider ambition to meet the ‘net-zero-carbon’ challenge by 2050, social housing providers have been set a target to attain a C rating on Energy Performance Certificates by 2035.

Governing by example – a fresh challenge for housing association boards

It’s a well-known saying that ‘leaders get the teams they deserve’. Perhaps we need to turn this around, and ask whether boards get the organisational culture they deserve?

Why all housing associations seeking investment should adopt the new Sustainability Reporting Standard

Andy Smith of The Good Economy writes about the importance and significance of the Standard and why housing associations should adopt it.

Housing associations helping to end homelessness

The coronavirus outbreak has demonstrated that we can act fast to address homelessness if there is a collective will and strong leadership from the government.

Innovating through the pandemic – Visitor Pods for care schemes

How Accord used MMC to create covid-secure Visitor Pods for care schemes.

How representative is the housing association workforce of the communities we serve?

Explore our new report: Equality, diversity and inclusion: an insight review of housing association staff in England.

How can housing associations create more inclusive workplaces and communities?

Equality, diversity and inclusion in our sector won’t be achieved by just a campaign or an initiative, it requires each of us to make fundamental and lasting changes.

Housing association boards have a duty to instil a culture of ‘safety first’

The Code of Governance 2020 has a new focus on ensuring the safety of residents, staff and visitors

Why we need a retrofit revolution in the south west – and beyond

Tackling decarbonisation by retrofitting homes not only creates warmer homes, it also creates jobs and give a much-needed boost to the economy.

Tips for supporting resident mental health in a pandemic

At a time when many clients’ mental health has deteriorated, maintaining contact has been key.

Responding to domestic abuse during lockdown and beyond

It has been well publicised that the coronavirus lockdown, whether in full or part of the tiered approach, has seen more incidences of domestic abuse.

What we can learn from the American election

Yesterday I read a post that said “make sure to wear shoes, ladies. There’s glass everywhere.” Unless you’ve been avoiding the news, the metaphorical glass smasher of the moment is obviously Kamala Harris.

The new Code of Governance reflects housing associations' commitment to resident accountability

The new Code of Governance will encourage, challenge and support housing associations to continue to strive to meet the very highest standards of governance as expectations change, underpinned by a culture of integrity, openness and inclusion.

The NHF Code of Governance 2020: equipping for excellence

The publication of the 2020 Code of Governance comes 25 years after the first code was produced in 1995.

We led a merger during the first lockdown and this is what we learned

While other associations' merger plans were delayed, we took the decision to go ahead with the creation of Eastlight Community Homes, despite the Covid-19 crisis.

Help us amplify our message of putting homes at the heart of our future

We’ve designed a campaign graphic that we want everyone to share on social media at the same time on the same day

New campaign aims to tackle fuel poverty

Last month I wrote to the Prime Minister and the UK’s ‘big six’ energy providers urging them to take steps to do more for the millions of people living in fuel poverty through the pandemic. Now we need your support to get the message out.

As the countdown to COP26 begins, where are housing associations on the journey to net zero?

With the eyes of the world on the UK, this is a unique opportunity for both the government and our sector to show real leadership.

Three tips for housing associations managing in the three-tier system

The introduction of the new three-tier system to manage local outbreaks of coronavirus across the UK presents some unique challenges for how associations can deliver their services to customers.

The housing sector could do more to protect the environment – but the government needs to level the playing field

We're calling for the government to introduce an industry-wide zero carbon new build standard. 

Putting Together with Tenants into practice during the coronavirus crisis

The coronavirus crisis has made a great many things harder (or even impossible), but if there’s one thing I’ve learned from the years working with our customers it’s that every challenge is also an opportunity.

The West Yorkshire mayoral election is a golden opportunity to place housing at the heart of the debate

Over the coming months, my colleagues and I will be engaging with prospective candidates and all political parties as the countdown to polling day gathers pace.

Will your organisation become a Together with Tenants adopter?

Last spring 130 housing associations agreed to act as Together with Tenants early adopters – testing a plan to strengthen the relationship between housing associations and residents.

How board members can help us spread the #HomesAtTheHeart message

This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the work housing associations do, and to secure our sector’s role in helping the country recover from this crisis.

Boards must act now and walk the talk on diversity and inclusion

We have a responsibility to leverage the current mood to drive change for our BAME communities – positive disruption is required to shape lasting change across our sector.

Radian and Yarlington become Abri – creating a new identity for our organisation

A rebrand is about embracing the meaning behind the change and making sure the right people are leading the way.

Building our way out: why now is the time to invest in social housing

The pandemic brought the role of our homes into sharp focus, and in doing so has made it impossible to ignore the housing emergency that has denied people a safe home when they need it most.

When two crises collide

Seeing our customers, our communities succeeding and our economy thriving is at the heart of what we do and that is why we support the Homes at the Heart campaign.

In a world of uncertainty, it can be difficult to predict what’s next, but for me I know it’s success

I hope that more businesses look beyond traditional ways of recruiting and realise that there is so much to gain by changing our outlook and doing things differently

The Good Food Bag doesn’t just feed families, it offers choice, develops skills and inspires confidence

Housing associations are inventsing in The Good Food Bag which is providing low cost, healthy meal kits to organisations, as well as selling directly to customers in areas of food insecurity.

Affordable rural homes are essential for prosperous communities

Affordable rural housing providers face a must make sure enough affordable rural homes are built to improve the diversity of the countryside, supporting a balance of income and age groups.

Securing a settled future for people facing homelessness

With the right action from the government and the will of the housing association sector, we can end homelessness, save the taxpayer money, and change lives.

The government has an opportunity to meet its manifesto commitment to end rough sleeping

We need the government to build on the success of ‘everyone in’ and use the Spending Review to invest in services that help prevent further homelessness. 

We’re responding to the proposed planning reforms – and we need your help

We’re pulling together sector-wide responses to the two consultations, and the consultation on changes to the current system, which closes on 1 October, is our most urgent priority. We have strong arguments to make against some of the more difficult proposals – but we need your help to illustrate them.

Influencing government is about storytelling – so let’s help our residents tell their stories

It doesn’t matter where you take an MP as long as there is a good story to tell about the homes you provide and the people that live in them.

The green agenda is about investing in peoples’ homes and our communities’ futures

We will make a huge mistake if we just think about the green agenda in terms of cost and investment. It’s about peoples’ homes, and our communities’ futures.

What will the long-term impacts of coronavirus be on housing supply?

We’re now seeing the first in-depth reflections on the effect of the pandemic on housing. 

Launching an ambitious decarbonisation plan that meets the needs of our residents

If the UK’s carbon targets are to be met, existing homes will need to be retrofitted and new homes built to meet much tougher standards. But how social landlords will afford to do this work?

To MP or not to MP

I pledge to do my bit to influence change – will you join me?

How the Housing Ombudsman scheme is changing

We want to establish a positive complaint handling culture and capture learning to improve the experience of all residents.

Never has there been a time that more clearly shows us how our homes are at the heart of living well

We need to make sure both exisiting homes are future homes are suitable to living well and ageing better.

Data is valuable but knowing the people behind the data is what makes an outstanding Independent Living service

The measures Johnnie Johnson Housing put in place to support residents during lockdown helped staff get to know them better.

Why safe homes are at the heart of supporting people through a crisis

Throughout the coronavirus crisis, we’ve seen more clearly than ever how a safe home is imperative to recovery.

The mental health challenges of coming out of lockdown

Service users and service providers were all worried about coronavirus and going into lockdown, but from a mental health perspective it seems to be only now that the scale of the real issue is emerging.

Two months in and momentum is building with the Homes at the Heart campaign – so what happens now?

Whether you’re a big or small housing association, in a city or in the country, and no matter what kind of services you provide, we need you to keep shouting about what you do.

Housing associations are embracing modern methods of construction – but what are the main considerations for housing associations?

The government is keen to promote modern methods of construction as the answer to the housing crisis, and Homes England is encouraging housing associations to get involved – and they are. 

Living communities – the case for rural social housing

The need for more social housing in the countryside is all the more pressing as we begin to feel the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

Building relationships with residents and communities to support people through the toughest of times

At SHAL, we build relationships with our residents to provide essential support to help them stay in their homes.

Social homes are good for business

More social homes would create jobs and help communities, and local businesses, to thrive.

Homes at the Heart of a Stronger Economy

Now more than ever housing associations continue to demonstrate our societal, economic and environmental value.

The role of housing providers in stimulating the economy, creating new jobs and improving wellbeing

Not only does construction of new homes create employment opportunities, but it has a wider economic impact across the supply chain that in turn stimulates growth.

Join us in highlighting the benefits social housing brings to our country

Your social housing successes, and the joy and hope your social homes bring to your residents, needs to be at the centre of the next stage in our campaign.

Governance conference: a virtual view

I recently attended the virtual Housing Governance Conference and was impressed with the immersive and engaging experience I had.

Modern methods of construction (MMC) can help housing associations build more and better homes – but collaboration is key

MMC can help housing associations build a significant proportion of the 300,000 new homes we need every year – cheaper, quicker and to a higher standard. But if it was easy we would have done it already. To get there we need to collaborate.

Rural housing and the pandemic: looking to the future

More homes for social renting in small developments that target local people, and a few purpose-built bungalows for older people to free up family homes, can make a huge difference for the village. This certainly deserves fuller recognition from MHCLG and Homes England.

The benefits of retrofitting and decarbonisation – a rural housing association resident’s perspective

"25 years after living in a cold and expensive-to-heat home I have nothing but praise for a home that is now kinder to me, my wallet and the planet."

Safe, secure and energy-efficient homes are the key to building sustainable communities

As a rural housing association based in the largest county in the country, supporting communities is a major part of our corporate strategy. We believe strong communities are mixed communities.

At a challenging time for the sector, the role of finance and treasury is critical

The housing sector faces regular challenges, but the current crisis is the most acute for generations. It affects our residents, our businesses, and our staff in significant ways.  

Reducing ‘hidden’ homelessness – collaboration and innovation in Cornwall

Coastline Housing has partnered with Cornwall Council and other organisations to help homeless people in the county through an innovative outreach project.

Rural housing associations are the glue connecting local communities – and can play a key role in the country’s recovery

The work that housing associations do in rural areas every day shows us that we have so much to be proud of as a sector. We have the potential to make an enormous contribution to the future of rural lives, if the government can put Homes at the Heart of the national recovery programme.

Working in partnership to rehouse rough sleepers

Our work in helping to find accommodation for homeless people during the coronavirus crisis has underlined how effective partnership work can be, and we’ve seen this effectiveness hit new heights over the past few months.

Top tips for virtual political engagement

It's important that our sector keeps engaging with politicians on the difference housing associations make in their constituencies.

Why we must speak out now to put #HomesAtTheHeart of the nation’s recovery

#HomesAtTheHeart is a national campaign and coalition calling for a once-in-a-generation investment in social housing and the people who live in it.

Coronavirus and the end of LIBOR

Pride in the City

Whilst we can’t take to the streets and come together in celebration we can, and we should, still celebrate Pride.

Why certainty in housing investment is vital as we emerge from the coronavirus crisis

As we emerge from the coronavirus crisis, investing in building new homes has a positive impact at a local, regional and national level, driving economic growth and supporting jobs.

Putting residents’ voices at the centre of changes to Universal Credit

The coronavirus crisis has placed an array of unique demands on society and one thing is clear – our response must be bold and decisive.

This is our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at the NHF

I’m proud to share with you our equality, diversity and inclusion strategy: Who We Are.

As board members, your leadership will help our sector – and our country – thrive

We can’t claim to hold all the answers, but we do have an important role to play in building a fairer, more prosperous and sustainable economy and society.

Board members tell us how they’ve responded to the coronavirus crisis

We asked members of our Board Member National Group about how they and their organisations have been responding to the coronavirus crisis.

What we learnt from our coronavirus befriending service

This year it's even more important to highlight loneliness as people in our communities continue to be isolated from friends and family.

When will we make housing more race and gender inclusive?

For change to happen, the housing sector needs to ask itself: what is diversity?

Learning about leadership during an unprecedented crisis

As we start to slowly move out of lockdown, at VIVID we’ve been reflecting on what we’ve learned about leadership

Collaboration works – never more so than in the hardest of times

The relationships built, and the trust and spirit of togetherness that has been harnessed over years of joint initiatives, has given Greater Manchester Housing Providers the opportunity to share and collaborate right from the start of this crisis.

Why we still need Pride

For me, Pride represents people who are typically under-represented in different aspects of society and it stands-up for those who are all too often treated unfairly.

Our commitment to carers. If not now? When?

Harry’s Pledge is asking the housing sector to support those who need care, and those who provide it.

Our new drive to decarbonise homes

On World Environment Day, I want to set out the case for a renewed focus on retrofitting and add the NHF’s voice to the calls from many quarters to build back better.

The UNIFY (BAME) Network is growing – so find out more about us

Equality and diversity is a sector wide issue and more broadly a societal issue where collaborative work needs to be done. 

Making a connection at virtual events

As the NHF rolls out virutal events this summer, find out what you can expect from one.

Is going virtual the answer to holding AGMs during the coronavirus outbreak?

Virtual AGMs are now being cautiously encouraged in the corporate sector, and the new Bill should provide some clarity and reassurance for those who are considering them in all sectors.

Shout it from the rooftops – we all need a place to call home

There has never been a more important time to make a public case for social housing.

No Pride in homelessness – the struggle for housing justice for LGBT+ people

This June, while Prides will always be a fabulous and colourful celebration of how far we’ve come, they remain a defiant cry for justice – and that must include housing justice. “The first Pride” – as the tee-shirt says – “was a riot!”

How we’re responding to increased demand for domestic abuse support and safe accommodation

How national housing associations delivering specialist supported housing services can help offer safe accommodation. 

Overcoming challenges of managing specialist substance misuse in housing during lockdown

As a specialist housing and treatment provider, we have unique insight into the challenges faced by individuals with a history of substance misuse and how the current crisis might affect them.

How we’re protecting residents during lockdown – and why there must be no return to rough sleeping

Responding to coronavirus isn't easy, but we're focused on ensuring our residents and colleagues are supported.

Five ways we’ve been supporting mental wellbeing during coronavirus

During a time like this, it's never been more important to look after our mental health. Here's some advice from South Yorkshire Housing Association on how they've done it.

We’ve teamed up with a local social enterprise to deliver food to our most vulnerable residents

The Larder promotes healthy, nutritious food that is local, seasonal and waste-free, with all its profits going to communities in need.

How we are supporting staff's mental health

The coronavirus outbreak has completely changed the way we work, and it’s never been more important to look after our staff’s mental health and wellbeing.

How the housing and employment sectors can stand as one

Newcross-sector taskforce to find employment-led solutions for social housing residents.

Why there's never been a more important time for HR

Now more than ever is the time for HR and people professionals to come together, share our experiences, grow our knowledge and prepare for what is to come.

More than homes: together we can raise £1 million for the Trussell Trust

Together, we can raise £1m for the Trussell Trust, writes Paul Dolan.

How we are supporting our most vulnerable residents during coronavirus lockdown

Keeping residents safe while continuing to deliver much needed services has been our main aim since the beginning of this crisis.

Building new homes remains a priority – even in unprecedented times

For the second edition of Thinkhouse’s blog for the NHF, we look at recent research on housing supply.

Governance from a distance – bringing us closer

How can you take your online board meetings from passable to excellent?

How we can help residents around the country celebrate VE Day during lockdown

We've created activity packs for residents to help them to mark the occasion in their own way during lockdown