Incommunities appoints 15 new housing officers to give residents more direct support
We're pleased to announce a major investment in our neighbourhood services, welcoming 15 new Neighbourhood Housing Officers to work directly with local residents and communities.
The new appointments bring the total number of neighbourhood officers to 59, increasing our on-the-ground presence and giving residents more direct access to local support.
The expanded team will allow officers to manage smaller neighbourhood patches, giving them more time to get to know residents properly, respond more quickly to issues and work alongside customers to improve the places they live.
One of the new Housing Officers Leoni Scrimshaw explains why she's taken up the role, “I have always been passionate about the vital role that safe and stable housing plays in a person's wellbeing. What drew me to Incommunities specifically was the organisations reputation for not just providing homes but building genuine communities. I was most excited about joining a team that prioritises social impacts and puts people at the hearts of everything they do.”
“This is about putting customers first,” said Janey Carey, Executive Director of Customer and Communities, at Incommunities. “Residents have told us they want to see their neighbourhood housing officers more, hear back more quickly and feel more involved in what's happening where they live.
“By increasing our team and reducing patch sizes, we're giving colleagues the time and capacity to do exactly that.”
With more capacity, neighbourhood officers will be spending more time out in communities, carrying out regular property inspections, talking to residents face-to-face and taking part in neighbourhood walkabouts with customers. These walkabouts give residents the chance to share what they like about their area, raise concerns and help shape local priorities.
Janey continued: “In the summer we'll also be introducing neighbourhood plans, created with residents and based on their feedback. These plans will set out what customers want to see improved in their postcode area over the next 18 months, what we'll deliver directly, and where we'll work with partners to make things happen. Progress will be reviewed with residents to make sure real changes are being delivered.”
“This investment means neighbourhood officers can move beyond simply reacting to problems,” added Janey. “It gives them the time to build relationships, support people to stay in their homes, and work with residents to create neighbourhoods they feel proud to live in.”
For residents living in high-rise buildings, Incommunities has created a dedicated high-rise team, ensuring officers can focus on the specific needs of these homes, including building safety, fire safety and regular engagement with residents.
The changes reflect Incommunities' ongoing commitment to listening to customers, strengthening local services and improving everyday experiences for people living in its homes across Bradford.