VIVID is a prominent provider of affordable housing and support services in the South of England, formed in April 2017 through the merger of housing associations First Wessex and Sentinel. With a mission encapsulated in the vision "More homes, bright futures," VIVID is dedicated to building more homes and making them affordable for everyone. The organization manages approximately 32,000 homes across Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire, and West Sussex, serving around 72,000 customers. As the sixth-largest developer of new homes among housing associations in England, VIVID has ambitious plans to build at least 1,200 new homes annually across various tenures, including social and affordable rent, shared ownership, market sale, and market rent.
VIVID's strategic focus centers on addressing the housing needs of the South East region by increasing the supply of affordable homes and enhancing community well-being. The organization offers a range of housing options to meet diverse needs and reinvests surpluses from market sales and rents to increase the proportion of homes built for social and affordable rent. VIVID operates commercially to ensure lean and effective business processes, enabling efficiency savings and customer service improvements. Additionally, VIVID provides extensive support services to help customers improve their lives and communities, reflecting its commitment to social purpose.
As a nonprofit organization, VIVID's financial strategy involves reinvesting surpluses into building more affordable homes and enhancing services. The organization employs approximately 850 staff, including 300 in its repairs team and its own construction arm, VIVID Build. This integrated approach allows VIVID to maintain control over construction quality and costs, contributing to its financial sustainability.
VIVID's development pipeline is robust, with plans to build at least 1,200 new homes annually across all tenures. This commitment positions VIVID as a major builder of new homes among UK housing associations. The organization's homes are located across 20 local authorities, and it is actively developing a range of new build housing sites to meet local needs and aspirations.
VIVID leverages its own construction arm, VIVID Build, to ensure quality and efficiency in its housing developments. This in-house capability allows the organization to maintain high standards and control costs effectively. Additionally, VIVID's commercial operations are designed to be lean and effective, enabling the organization to make efficiency savings and drive customer service improvements.
VIVID's leadership team is committed to the organization's mission and values. The Group Resources Director, Duncan Short, emphasizes the importance of employee engagement and well-being, recognizing that the organization's success is driven by its people. VIVID's values include working as one team, encouraging challenge and change, and delivering a great customer experience. The organization offers various benefits to employees, such as discounted gym memberships, medi-cash, retail and leisure discounts, and health coaching for those with chronic conditions or mental health challenges.
VIVID operates in a competitive landscape alongside other housing associations and developers in the South East of England. Key competitors include Clarion Housing Group, Bromford Developments Limited, and Grand Union Housing Group. These organizations also focus on providing affordable housing and support services, contributing to the region's housing supply and community development.
VIVID actively engages in strategic collaborations and partnerships to strengthen its market position and expand its capabilities. The organization works closely with local authorities, community groups, and other stakeholders to develop housing solutions that meet local needs. By fostering these relationships, VIVID enhances its ability to deliver on its mission and contribute positively to the communities it serves.
VIVID's strategic roadmap includes plans to build 17,000 new homes over the next 10 years, reflecting its commitment to addressing the housing shortage in the South East. The organization aims to continue providing quality affordable homes and support services, helping customers improve their well-being and life chances. By leveraging its strengths and maintaining a focus on efficiency and customer service, VIVID is well-positioned to achieve its future objectives.
For more information about VIVID and its services, please visit their official website.
VIVID is headquartered in Winchester, England, United Kingdom.