Halton Housing Company Profile

Background

Halton Housing is an award-winning housing association headquartered in Runcorn, Cheshire, England. Established in 2005, the organization manages over 7,000 homes across Runcorn and Widnes, with ongoing expansion into the broader North West region. Committed to improving people's lives, Halton Housing focuses on providing safe, quality homes and fostering thriving communities. The association is recognized for its innovative approach, particularly in digital transformation and customer-centric services.

Key Strategic Focus

Halton Housing's strategic objectives are outlined in its Corporate Plan 2022-25, emphasizing:

Customer Engagement: Enhancing customer experiences and providing platforms for tenant involvement.

Community Investment: Revitalizing neighborhoods and collaborating with local partners to strengthen community ties.

Housing Quality: Investing over £18.5 million to improve existing homes and ensure they meet current and future needs.

Sustainable Development: Committing to building 1,000 new homes by 2024, utilizing modern construction methods and focusing on energy efficiency.

Operational Excellence: Balancing financial sustainability with a social mission, reinvesting profits into community development.

Financials and Funding

While specific financial details are not publicly disclosed, Halton Housing's ambitious development programs and substantial investments in housing improvements indicate a robust financial position. The organization has successfully secured funding for various projects, including partnerships with Homes England for regeneration initiatives.

Pipeline Development

Halton Housing has a dynamic development pipeline, with several key projects:

Hazlehurst, Runcorn: An Independent Living scheme for individuals over 55.

Okell Street, Runcorn: Nine three-bedroom terraced homes for affordable rent.

Hazel Brook, Winterley: A mix of 31 two and three-bedroom homes.

Orchard Meadows, Appleton: 111 homes for affordable rent and shared ownership.

Warmingham Lane, Middlewich: 84 mixed-tenure homes.

These projects contribute to the goal of delivering 1,000 new homes by 2024.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Halton Housing is a leader in digital innovation within the housing sector:

Digital Transformation: Recognized as the number one digital housing provider by Housing Digital in 2021, highlighting initiatives like virtual business continuity and enhanced digital offerings.

Customer Self-Service: Development of a new website with customizable features, live chat, and integration with tenant portals, enhancing user experience and accessibility.

Sustainability Initiatives: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and retrofitting properties to reduce carbon footprints.

Leadership Team

Halton Housing's leadership comprises experienced professionals:

Sam Scott: Group Chief Executive since October 2022, providing overall leadership.

Neil McGrath: Deputy Group Chief Executive & Chief Financial Officer, overseeing business services, growth, finance, and the commercial arm, Open Door.

Debbie Trust-Dickinson: Chief Operating & Transformation Officer, leading customer services, IT, digital, brand, and transformation initiatives.

Jon Blackwell: Director of Homes, ensuring property services meet customer needs.

Paul Croston: Director of Technology, Digital and Data, focusing on IT strategy and digital experience optimization.

Paul Mullane: Director of Development & Sales, driving the development of new homes.

Natalie O'Hara: Director of People, leading HR and organizational development.

Sue Smith: Director of Finance & Assurance, managing finance, performance, governance, and assurance.

Lisa Windle: Director of Customer Experience, ensuring optimal customer service throughout tenancy journeys.

Leadership Changes

In October 2022, Sam Scott joined as Group Chief Executive, bringing fresh leadership to the organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics:

The UK social housing sector is experiencing increased demand for affordable housing, driven by population growth and economic factors. Housing associations are focusing on digital transformation and sustainability to meet evolving tenant expectations and regulatory requirements.

Competitor Analysis:

Key competitors include:

Tricon Residential: A significant player in the rental housing market, focusing on developing rental units in urban areas.

Regional Municipality of Halton: Provides housing supports and services, implementing comprehensive housing strategies to address community needs.

These organizations emphasize affordable housing development, community engagement, and digital innovation.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Halton Housing collaborates with various partners to enhance its services:

Active Housing: Partnered to develop a new, user-friendly website with advanced features, improving customer engagement.

Innovation Chain North: Member of a consortium focused on innovative housing solutions and best practices.

Operational Insights

Halton Housing's strategic focus on digital transformation, customer engagement, and sustainable development positions it competitively within the housing sector. Its commitment to innovation and community investment differentiates it from competitors.