BCHA was pleased to welcome the Chair of the National Housing Federation (NHF), Maggie Galliers, to Bournemouth on 20 May as part of a visit to show the realities of delivering homelessness and supported housing services in the current climate.
The NHF represents around 1,200 independent, not-for-profit housing providers. They advocate and represent the interests of housing associations to the UK government. Through a variety of campaigns which are supported by BCHA, the NHF advocate for legislation and funding to tackle the housing crisis.
The visit allowed BCHA to shine a spotlight on some of our support and housing services, where Maggie had the opportunity to meet customers, frontline staff and board members.
Chris Nicholson (Board Chair) and Lorraine Mealings (CEO) hosted the visit, with numerous staff joining throughout to showcase their services. Several members of BCHA’s executive team and NHF South West External Affairs Manager, Lizzi Hearn also took part in the visit.
Open and honest conversations explored how policy, legislation and funding decisions can affect organisations like BCHA differently to general needs housing providers. BCHA were keen to highlight our partnership approach and explored the diversity of BCHA’s work and need to adapt within communities.
There was a strong focus on customer voice and co-production. Maggie was keen to hear more about BCHA’s Customer Steering Group, including how customers are encouraged to get involved and how BCHA is continuing to broaden the range of voices and experiences that are represented.
The visit highlighted the importance of listening to customers and frontline teams when shaping housing and support services, as well as the value of collaboration between housing associations, communities and national bodies such as the NHF.
Maggie and Lizzi visited St Pauls, BCHA’s 40-bed homeless hostel, where staff and customers greeted the pair. The visit then continued to James Michael House, BCHA’s supported accommodation for young people.
Lorraine Mealings, CEO, said 'It's great that the National Housing Federation are listening to and shining a light on the smaller specialist organisation. Thanks to NatFed for the continued influence at national level to keep housing top of the agenda.'
BCHA would like to thank Maggie and Lizzi for taking the time to visit services, meet customers and staff, and for engaging so openly with the opportunities and challenges facing supported housing today.
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