Two stars for Hackney Homes

Just over three years ago, I joined the board of an organisation in which I saw something different. I saw an organisation that showed passion, showed commitment and most importantly, showed a real vision for making a difference for Hackney residents.

My admiration for this resident focused organisation saw me stand for election as the chair of the board and in the past year as the chair, I have seen some remarkable changes for the benefit of residents.

I have seen more Hackney Homes residents getting involved and having their say on how money is spent and decisions are made. I have also seen a stronger commitment from Hackney Homes to employing local people and training young people through our apprentice scheme.

The impact that Hackney Homes is making in the borough is about more than managing homes – we are working with the council and our partners to help build and support thriving communities. And it is this that we must work together on to continue to develop. Thanks to all this good work, Hackney Homes has received two star rating from the Audit Commission, which entitles us to £225m of funding from the Housing Corporation.

This two star result will give Hackney Homes the capital needed to modernise 7,000 homes, to provide good quality living for our residents. It also confirms that Hackney Homes is providing a high quality service for residents and is a clear sign that Hackney is becoming a better, safer and cleaner place to live, work and play.

For more information about Hackney Homes, you can log on to www.hackneyhomes.org.uk and click on the link for Decent Homes.