Bradford-based housing organisation achieves world first for diversity and inclusion
Following an onsite assessment, Manning Housing Association (MHA) has become the first company in the world to obtain the global standard for diversity and inclusion in HR management.
Yesterday, 11th January 2024, a report was released which highlighted that MHA, a housing association that manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley, is an ‘exemplar organisation in respect of delivery and inclusion.’
The independent assessor said in his report: ‘Manningham Housing Association is truly reflective of the community it serves, and the various programmes/projects and events are all geared to improving the life prospects of residents/tenants be that in terms of skills development, health and wellbeing and job opportunities.’
‘The culture of the organisation is one where people feel valued, respected, and treated as individuals. People are proud to work for/be associated with the organisation and as a result often go the extra mile,’ the assessor added. ‘Manningham Housing Association is a values driven organisation, and these are firmly embedded in the people management processes. Diversity and inclusion are deeply embedded in the DNA of the organisation, the values have not only endured over the decades and the sense of inclusion has increased as the organisation reaches out to wider communities.’
As well as the award being given after an examination of the site, discussions were also held with employees and other stakeholders before ISO 30415 – the certification designed to promote inclusion within companies – could be distributed.
In response to receiving such an honour, MHA deputy chief executive and director of operations, Ulfat Hussain, said: ‘I am obviously delighted that we have been awarded ISO 30415 accreditation and to be informed by the independent assessor that MHA is the first housing association to receive it.
‘As he recognises in his report, the MHA family is made up of a diverse range of individuals with our staff coming from backgrounds that reflect the communities we serve.
‘I am incredibly proud of the outcome and pay tribute to everyone involved, with a special mention for Carolina Padovezi De Oliveira, our Corporate Project Manager, who ensured the whole assessment process ran smoothly.’
This outstanding achievement being award to MHA has arguably come at no better time. Despite the beginning of a new year commencing, people across the UK are still severely struggling with their housing costs, so, this news acts as a glimmer of hope amidst a sector still plagued with problems.
Image: MHA
