Peg production shows Unity means business

A Yorkshire creative agency has thanked Unity Enterprise (UE) for helping it continue its fast track to success throughout the pandemic by producing a short film showcasing the not-for-profit organisation’s work to boost entrepreneurial activity in Leeds.    

Peg - which launched in early 2020 with a focus on video storytelling, brand development, PR and content strategy - is based at Leeds Media Centre, one of three business hubs in the city run by UE.

The film features interviews with UE staff together with contributions from other tenants including craft designer and author Corinne Lapierre, and Christina Cambridge of Cardinal Care Services, together with stunning drone footage of the surrounding area.      

From a hi-tech multi-camera television studio and production office with the latest equipment for premium video and audio recording, Peg films live broadcasts, webcasts, online content, training videos and other media content.

Its onsite facilities also include an executive green room and extensive storage space.

Rebekah Cambridge, Unity Enterprise coordinator, with Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager

Dave McCormack, Peg managing director, said he was keen to give something back after the “selfless” efforts by the UE team to support Peg, particularly during periods of lockdown.      

He said: “Covid presented huge logistical challenges for everyone, but it was especially difficult for start-ups seeking to establish themselves in a desperately uncertain business climate.

“However, Adrian and Pauline at UE could not have done more to support us and enable Peg to flourish.

“I know it is a view shared by fellow tenants, some of whom feature in the film.

“We thought it would be appropriate to play our part in taking UE’s offer of practical assistance and relentless positivity to a wider audience because what they offer fledgling businesses at an affordable cost is second to none.”

UE was established in 2000 as a not-for-profit subsidiary of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise with a mission to support local entrepreneurial activity. 

It currently provides 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses across its three centres in Chapeltown, north-east Leeds. 

Adrian Green, UE manager, said: “We are grateful to Dave and his team providing the platform for us to tell our story to a wider audience.

 “UE is proud to make a real contribution to the economic wellbeing and regeneration of the local communities that surround us through the provision of high quality, affordable offices and workspaces.

 “Our work is even more satisfying because of the remarkable personal and professional qualities of our business tenants.

 “Peg is a leader in its field.  It is fantastic to have such innovative work going on at Leeds Media Centre.”

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “UE is playing an increasingly prominent role in providing economic and social opportunities for communities where entrepreneurial talent has often been left untapped.

 “Our three enterprise centres are now hives of business activity, from start-ups right through to well-established companies which are keen to pass on knowledge and experience to other tenants.

 “Peg does magnificent work, as the film vividly demonstrates.  Having managed to flourish despite the challenges Covid has thrown up for everyone over the past two years, I know exciting times lies ahead for the company and for UE.”         

 The film can be viewed by clicking on to THIS LINK.  

Unity appointment committed to tenant wellbeing

Temo Elbakidze has joined Unity Homes and Enterprise as Housing Services Manager.

He will have lead responsibility for delivering an outstanding customer experience for tenants living in more than 1,300 properties owned and managed by the BME housing association in Leeds and Kirklees.

Mr Elbakidze, who will report to Interim Director of Operations David Higgins, was previously Area Operations Manager at Horizon Care and Education, having held senior management roles at Leeds Housing Concern and Great Places Housing Group.

A Leeds Beckett University housing graduate, he also has a degree in mechanical engineering from Georgian Technical University in Tbilisi and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Housing.

Temo Elbakidze, Housing Services Manager, Unity Homes and Enterprise 

Temo Elbakidze said: “I am excited to be at Unity which is strongly committed to supporting BME communities and puts the wellbeing of tenants at the top of its priority list.

 “Individuals and families in multi-cultural neighbourhoods are currently experiencing challenging times, including dealing with the spiralling cost of living crisis.  

 “Supported by my team, I look forward to leading from the front in providing first class customer-focussed services which cater for every tenant need.”

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Temo brings more than two decades of housing sector experience to the role and is passionate in his commitment to equality, fairness and improving people’s lives.  

 “He is also a skilled communicator who can get his message across to colleagues at every level of the organisation.

 “His energy, knowledge and ability to devise solutions to complex problems will be invaluable to Unity, our tenants and the communities we serve.”   

 Unity was established in 1987 to meet the urgent housing needs of BME people in Leeds.

 In 2000 the association established its not-for-profit subsidiary company, Unity Enterprise, to support local entrepreneurial activity. 

 Unity Employment Services was set-up in 2011 to support Unity tenants and their surrounding communities in accessing employment and training opportunities.

UK City of Culture status must reduce disparities in Bradford

The Chief Executive of Manningham Housing Association has said he hopes being named UK City of Culture 2025 will be pivotal in reducing disparities faced by deprived communities in Bradford.

Lee Bloomfield, Manningham Housing Association Chief Executive

In a statement, Lee Bloomfield said: “I congratulate everyone involved with the bid, it truly is fantastic news for Bradford and the wider district.

“Manningham Housing Association is proud to be one of the leading BME housing associations in the country with our head office located in the heart of Bradford - one of the most diverse cities in the country.

“The people of Bradford have endured a succession of disappointments stretching back over many years, most recently when the city was told it would not be getting Northern Powerhouse Rail and a much-needed new station.        

“The increased profile, investment and footfall that will come with UK City of Culture status in 2025 must now be harnessed to reduce the disparities faced by deprived communities in Bradford and Keighley.

“Working with partners, Manningham Housing Association looks forward to playing our full part in helping to extract every possible benefit from this achievement for the district and its people.”      

Founded in 1986, Manningham Housing Association manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley, and is the first housing association in the country to be officially accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.

High-flying Bradford association scoops two Northern Housing Awards

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has triumphed in two categories at the Northern Housing Awards.

The BME organisation, which manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley, won the prestigious Northern Housing Team of the Year Award with Cath Bacon named as Tenant of the Year.

MHA was also shortlisted for Landlord of the Year at the ceremony held at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.

The association’s Community Engagement Team secured the Northern Housing Team of the Year Award for their success in delivering Building Bridges Bradford, a pioneering new venture devised to bolster community resilience and bring individuals and families from diverse backgrounds together through social action activities. 

The project also supported those affected by COVID-19 including people experiencing mental health challenges, loss of income and isolation due to lockdown.

Celebrating success: MHA’s Cath Bacon (right), Emma Noble and Nasir Hussain with the association’s two Northern Housing Awards

Nasir Hussain, MHA Community Partnerships and Investment Manager, who collected the trophy, said: “I am proud of every single member of the team.  This includes my colleagues at MHA, the many community volunteers who did so much of the heavy lifting and the more than 2,200 people who took part in activities ranging from outdoor physical exercise to online coffee mornings. 

“The foundations for Building Bridges Bradford were already in place before the pandemic struck.  However, rather than be deterred by the huge challenges it inevitably created, everyone involved simply rolled up their sleeves with the shared objective of improving life experiences in some of the most vulnerable communities across the district.

“They deserve the recognition that this award brings.”  

Cath Bacon, who is also Vice-Chair of Bradford District Credit Union, a governor of Airedale Hospital and a well-known community activist, said: “I am honoured to receive the Tenant of the Year award.

“Manningham Housing Association has been a huge part of my life.  As well being a long-standing MHA tenant, I am a Board member and Chair of the Customer Panel which scrutinises the services provided to tenants and makes recommendations for improvements.    

“I have enjoyed being a voice for all tenants inside MHA and hope I have played my part in it becoming one of the most admired housing associations in the country.”   

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, who also attended the ceremony, said: “It was a wonderful experience to see Nasir and Cath collect their awards.

“To have the best housing team and best tenant in the North of England at Manningham Housing Association is a remarkable outcome, particularly given our relatively small size.

“It is also an immense pleasure to fly the flag for Bradford and Keighley, where lots of good work is going on to bring communities together.

“In collaboration with our partners across the district, we will continue to be at the forefront of these positive initiatives.”       

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “The quality of people at Manningham Housing Association is only surpassed by the levels of personal humility they display.

“I am therefore doubly delighted that the Community Engagement Team and Cath Bacon have had their efforts highlighted by winning these much sought after awards.

“I know the feelings of excitement and joy will be shared by all at MHA.”

Housing association described as ‘beacon of hope’ as excellence status is confirmed

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has retained its Customer Service Excellence accreditation after a rigorous independent inspection, achieving the highest possible Compliance Plus rating in 11 individual areas of its work.

 The association, which owns and manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley, has held the prestigious quality mark since 2019 when it also became the first housing association in the country to be officially accredited for its efforts to promote equality, diversity and inclusion. 

 The Customer Service Excellence Standard is awarded to organisations deemed to have a “truly customer-focused culture” following a review of documents submitted to an official assessor and an on-site visit.

 The assessor also held a combined total of 12 in-person and virtual discussions with MHA staff at all levels, members of the association’s Board, Customer Panel members, suppliers and tenants.

In his final report, he wrote: “Manningham Housing Association has been a beacon of hope to many during the pandemic and is now emerging as a stronger, more dynamic and adaptable organisation.

“Being a truly community-based BAME housing association, MHA has created a range of additional services ensuring that the diverse and varied needs of communities are met.

“To a large extent the staff and the Board reflect the diversity of the communities which MHA serves, and the organisation is fully committed to working with partners to improve skills, create new employment opportunities and improve the quality of people’s lives.”

He concluded: “I can confirm that all the requirements of the Standard are met in full.”

Manningham Housing Association staff

Nadim Khaliq, MHA’s Head of Housing Services, was responsible for ensuring the association met the long list requirements demanded by the assessment process.

He said: “This is a fantastic result including full compliance with the Customer Service Excellence Standard, no partial compliances and 11 areas where we achieved Compliance Plus.

“It a wonderful reflection on everyone involved with our work including staff colleagues, community partners, tenants and the Board.

“Rather than a ‘can-do’ attitude, MHA prides itself in demonstrating a ‘will-do’ attitude.

“There has never been more apparent than since the arrival of Covid-19.  We rose to the challenge and worked harder than ever to improve lives across the diverse communities we are privileged to serve.”  

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “I never cease to be amazed by what the incredible team of talented and committed individuals who make up the Manningham Housing Association family can achieve.

“There is a never a hint of complacency, just an overwhelming desire to raise standards even further and make a real difference to people’s everyday lives.

“It is energising to see their professionalism at first hand. 

“On behalf of the Board, I congratulate and thank them all.”

Queen’s Speech is a missed opportunity for new housing and levelling up

The chief executive of Manningham Housing Association has expressed his disappointment that the building of many new affordable homes and a more robust commitment to levelling up were not included in today’s Queen’s Speech.

Lee Bloomfield

The speech, which sets out the Government’s policy agenda for the year ahead, was delivered earlier today on Her Majesty’s behalf by Prince Charles.   

In a statement, Lee Bloomfield said: “With the cost of living crisis really beginning to bite, I had hoped that the Government would show more ambition by offering tangible support to those communities that will inevitably suffer most.

“The pledge to reform the planning system by giving residents more involvement seems designed to restrict house building rather than encourage it.

“I look forward to providing input to the legislation to improve the regulation of social housing.

“I also welcome the prospect of measures to drive local regeneration but the people of Bradford and Keighley have repeatedly missed out when additional resources for regeneration projects are allocated.      

 “This includes transport with the Queen’s Speech containing promises to modernise rail services but, having recently missed out on Northern Powerhouse Rail and a new station in Bradford, hopes within the communities we serve will not be high.”

New appointment to advance Unity’s ambitious development programme

Unity Homes and Enterprise has appointed Sean Kelly as Regeneration Manager.

Reporting to Regeneration Director Wayne Noteman, he will play a lead role in delivering the Leeds-based BME housing association’s development programme and oversee the work of Unity’s Employment Services Team to support tenants and clients into jobs and training.  

Mr Kelly joins Unity after three years as Group Head of Development at Incommunities, having previously held a range of senior housing positions including Design and Build Manager at Lumia Homes, and Development and Procurement Manager at Firebird Homes.   

He is a graduate of Leeds Metropolitan University where he gained a BSc in Project Management.

Formed in 1987 to address the needs of black and minority ethnic communities in Leeds, Unity now manages more than 1,300 affordable homes across the city, as well as new build schemes in Huddersfield and Cleckheaton.   

Sean Kelly, Regeneration Manager, Unity Homes and Enterprise 

Sean Kelly said: “Unity has a long-established reputation as a housing association rooted in local communities and dedicated to improving lives.

“It is also highly regarded in the sector for the quality of its new build properties, as the succession of affordable schemes in Leeds and elsewhere demonstrates.

“I look forward to working closely with Wayne, the Senior Management Team and Unity’s partners locally and nationally to advance Unity’s ambitious development programme in the years ahead.”      

Cedric Boston, Unity Chief Executive, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Sean to Unity.  His local knowledge and years of experience as a housing professional will enable him to hit the ground running.

 “The Regulator of Social Housing recently announced that Unity had retained its G1 V1 ratings, the highest levels achievable, and we have exciting plans for the future including ambitious development projects.

 “Sean will be at the forefront of this work as we continue our mission to revitalise local communities, stimulate social and economic regeneration, create life opportunities and address inequalities within sustainable neighbourhoods.”                 

Unity steps out of pandemic with fast track to success for aspiring entrepreneurs

A new scheme to give aspiring Leeds entrepreneurs the opportunity to build their own sustainable business is being launched by BME-led housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise.

 The Steps to Business programme has been developed in partnership with iota Business and The Apple Box Company whose representatives will be on hand throughout the 12-week process to assist up to 10 candidates.

 Applicants will be invited to attend an initial assessment to discuss their business idea and establish if they possess the skills and drive to progress it.

 Those chosen to take part in the programme will be given their own space in the impressive business hub at Leeds Media Centre in Chapeltown – one of three business centres run by Unity - as well as access to other services offered by the three organisations.

 Each participant will be required to attend up to eight workshops on topics including business structure, legal responsibilities, raising finance, market testing and the effective use of social media.

 The business adviser will also assist with the preparation of bespoke business plans for each candidate setting out objectives, key quantifiable targets and financial projections. 

 Participants will then be invited to attend an interview with a panel of experts to discuss their business idea in-depth. 

 The candidate deemed to have most potential will receive the Unity Scholarship which includes a £1,000 grant to purchase IT kit or tools and a £250 payment every month for 12 months.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive (right), and Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, at Leeds Media Centre where the Steps to Business programme will be hosted

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “Unity stands out amongst housing associations in having employment, training and entrepreneurial services which allow us to offer numerous opportunities to directly transform life chances.

 “The Steps to Business programme provides an exciting but challenging route for talented individuals to learn new skills, set up their own business and create economic opportunities in the local community through inclusive growth.

 “We are particularly keen to reach out to people who may not have had the chances they deserve in life and, with the guidance and structure this initiative provides, will grasp the opportunity to show what they can do.

 “I encourage people of all ages who believe they have what it takes to achieve business success to get in touch.”

 Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, said: “Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, so each candidate will be mentored according to their individual needs.

 “Steps to Business will offer an array of pre and post start-up advice and support to ambitious individuals with the enterprising spirit, the drive to start a business and the capability to make it a success.

 “Following its launch with the first cohort later this spring, it is our intention to repeat the initiative every six months to give as many prospective entrepreneurs as possible the chance to fulfil their business potential.”

 Cristine Wilson, iota Business founder, said: “We have more than 30 years of experience in helping fledging entrepreneurs and small enterprises start and market their businesses, empowering them to realise their dreams of self-reliance, creativity and financial independence.

 “iota is proud to be playing our part in this exciting new venture.”   

 A spokesperson for The Apple Box Company said: “Amongst the services offered by The Apple Box Company, encouraging local entrepreneurship by helping new start-ups to manifest their dreams and assisting going concerns to achieve their goals and objectives is one of our main priorities.

 “We look forward to making Steps to Business a resounding success.” 

Manningham Housing Association in running for two major awards

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has been shortlisted for two Northern Housing Awards.

The association, which owns and manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley, has made the final cut in the Landlord of the Year category with its Community Engagement Team being shortlisted for Housing Team of the Year.

The awards will be presented at a gala dinner at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on Tuesday 17 May.

MHA holds the highest achievable ratings from the Regulator of Social Housing and is the first housing association in the country to be officially accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, said: “This is worthy recognition for the hard work each member of staff has put in throughout another incredibly challenging year dominated by the pandemic.

MHA Chief Executive Lee Bloomfield (left) and Community Partnerships and Investment Manager Nasir Hussain

“We are especially proud of the inclusive environment that has been created with our Customer Panel, chaired by MHA tenant Cath Bacon who also sits on the Board, instrumental in decision-making.

“I must give a special mention to the Community Engagement Team which has devised and delivered the ground-breaking Building Bridges Bradford initiative to bolster community resilience, support diverse communities and bring people together through social action activities.   

“They deserve their place in the spotlight.”

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “This news is further evidence of Manningham Housing Association’s remarkable ability to punch well above its weight.

“On behalf of the Board, I pay tribute to our staff at every level who work in some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in the country. 

“They are a tireless, dedicated and talented group of people who are committed to improving local lives.

“Whatever the outcome at the awards ceremony, I regard them all as winners.”  

Manningham Housing Association ups commitment to Bradford with stock acquisition

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has completed the purchase of 19 affordable homes at Daisy Fields, close to Bradford city centre.

The high quality properties, an mix of 2-bed and 3-bed units, were previously owned by Great Places Housing Group but have been managed by MHA since 2014.

They form part of a wider new build residential development of owner-occupied homes, six of MHA already own.

Daisy Fields is an attractive part of Bradford convenient to local schools, parks and recreational facilities. 

70% of current residents are from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to get this deal over the line following the culmination of a major re-financing process.

“Our day to day involvement with Daisy Fields tenants over the last eight years has allowed MHA to get to know everyone well, guaranteeing a seamless transition for everyone.

“We had been keen to purchase these 19 affordable homes after entering into a management agreement with Great Places.

“This is a major investment for Manningham Housing Association, underpinning our commitment to looking after the needs of individuals and families in Bradford and Keighley wanting to live in good homes at an affordable cost.”

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “This acquisition cements our commitment to Daisy Fields residents.

“It also increases available security in which to further develop new stock, allowing the association to make further progress in addressing the demand for our properties and for MHA to be the landlord of choice.

“In Great Places, Bradford district lost a highly regarded registered housing provider with Homes England strategic partner status at a time when the demand for new affordable properties has never been higher.

“As a Board, MHA is more determined than ever to work with key partners including Bradford Council to deliver more homes for social minority groups in Bradford and Keighley who are most at risk from the unfolding cost of living crisis.”     

Mandy, a Daisy Fields tenant, said: “Manningham Housing Association caters for all different types of families and treats everybody the same and are very efficient in what they do and the services are good.

“They listen to their tenants and this shows through their actions, for example their feedback magazines and events they carry out.

“I am satisfied with Manningham Housing Association becoming our new landlord.”

Malika, also a Daisy Fields tenant, said: “I am glad to become a Manningham Housing Association tenant as it is closer to my area and the office acts as a hub in the city centre. We can walk into the reception now with it being open.

“I am also glad about having the same neighbourhood officers looking out for me.”

Pathway to health and social care jobs offered by Leeds housing association

BME-led housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise is playing a lead role in supporting young people in Leeds to pursue a career in health and social care.

Unity has been chosen to engage with individuals aged 16-25 through Healthier Working Futures Leeds, a new partnership of health, care and third sector organisations which has received more than £300,000 from the Government’s UK Community Renewal Fund. 

The partners aim to connect with over 600 unemployed and economically inactive young people across the city, with a particular emphasis on those facing barriers to employment such as learning difficulties or disabilities, mental health issues, family breakdown and homelessness.

Unity’s Employment Services team will provide one to one support for up to 90 young people including assisting with job applications including the preparation of CVs, interview role play exercises and attending events and job fairs to help candidates with confidence building. 

Group sessions and workshops will also be delivered to improve digital skills and share useful information and job finding tips.    

Employment Outreach Officers Lorraine Charlton (right) and Kelly Jennings at Unity’s head office in Chapeltown, Leeds

Lorraine Charlton, Unity Employment Outreach Officer, said: “We are excited to be playing our part in facilitating talented young people to work in health and social care.

“Over the past three years, our Employment Services team have helped almost 400 clients into jobs, more than 600 into training and 40 into voluntary roles.

“Of the 104 individuals aged 16-25, 34 gained employment, 41 entered training and six became volunteers.

“There is no shortage of capable young people out there who simply need informed advice and signposting to find the right opportunities.

“Unity looks forward to playing this role.”   

Cedric Boston, Unity Chief Executive, said: “Unity is much more than an affordable housing provider and is absolutely committed to creating opportunities for individuals and families to progress, gain decent jobs and play their full part in regenerating local communities.

“Since it was established more than 10 years ago, Unity’s Employment Services team has directly assisted more than 2,500 clients.  Over the next five years, our target is to help another 2,500.     

“The past two years, dominated by the pandemic, have put health and social care properly in the spotlight.

“Those dedicated professionals who work in the sector have never been held in higher regard. 

“We are proud to be playing an active role in recruiting more committed young people into these critically important roles.”    

New digital services to improve customer experience for housing association tenants

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has launched a new digital platform to enable tenants in Bradford and Keighley to access its wide array of services at any time of the day.

The MyMHA portal was developed after the association asked customers about their online experience and what digital services they could benefit from.

Tenants can now carry out a series of tasks online including paying their rent, booking a repair, checking due dates for gas and electricity safety checks and keeping updated on MHA’s extensive calendar of events.      

They can also interact with an innovative chatbot facility which can answer questions and offer advice to users in more than 160 languages.    

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “MyMHA is the next stage in the roll out of our ambitious digital strategy.    

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations

 “There has been a seismic shift in how our customers access services and we have sought to respond to this change.

 “Despite the pandemic, our levels of customer satisfaction have remained at remarkably high levels over the last two years.

 “However, we have listened to our customers, particularly younger customers.  MHA previously worked on the assumption that our customers preferred to come into the office, often to pay their rent, but that has changed. 

 “Thanks to our new digital portal, everyone can access many more services online - but can still visit our head office if they would prefer a face to face meeting.

 “The chatbot facility, together with our recently revamped and upgraded website, is cutting edge and provides instant answers to queries including a selection of self-help videos.

 “We have also included a live-chat facility with the chatbot so our tenants can chat to us during office hours rather than call us.”  

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair

 Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “The portal is impressive and easy to use.

 “It has been subjected to rigorous stress tests with MHA staff and board members invited to try to find areas where services could further improve.

 “Thankfully, few teething problems were encountered but there can be no room for complacency and we will listen closely to the thoughts of our customers and conduct further internal testing.  

 “I am proud that MHA has taken another significant step in cementing our reputation as one of the most forward-thinking and customer-focussed housing associations in the country.”

Chancellor’s Spring Statement has left those in need greatly exposed

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive

The chief executive of Bradford-based Manningham Housing Association has said the Chancellor of the Exchequer has failed to recognise the seriousness of the cost of living crisis now facing people on the lowest incomes.

 Responding to Rishi Sunak’s Spring Statement delivered earlier today, Lee Bloomfield said:

“People on the bottom rung of the income ladder are facing a tsunami of significantly higher energy bills and shopping bills increasing week upon week as inflation risks spiralling out of control.

“The imminent rise in National Insurance, which will not be properly mitigated by the rise in the personal threshold, amounts to a real terms pay cut from next month.

“There is no extra money for those on Universal Credit and the £500 million allocated to local authorities supposedly to help the poorest in society is miniscule given the numbers of people requiring help.

“I had hoped that the Chancellor, who stepped forward to do the right thing in the early months of the pandemic, would choose to support those in greatest need as we enter a new national crisis.

“Instead, he has failed to recognise the seriousness of the situation and left them greatly exposed.”

Unity provides Kickstart to young career prospects

Leeds housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise is giving four talented young people the opportunity to develop their workplace experience and skills with six-month placements through the Kickstart scheme.  Funded by the Government, Kickstart is open to individuals aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. 

Unity Employment Outreach Officers Kelly Jennings (far left) and Lorraine Charlton (far right) with Kickstart employees Shannon, Deshanti, Samit and Ben

 Unity, based in Chapeltown, has provided four placements across four different parts of the organisation.  Two recruits are working in housing, with the regeneration and finance teams welcoming one new employee to their ranks.

 Each successful candidate was selected following a challenging selection process including a panel interview.  Since taking up their posts, the young people have been having monthly one to one meetings with their line managers to review progress and explore any training needs that will help them to fulfil their respective job requirements.

 Members of Unity’s employment services team also meet with each of the trainees fortnightly to talk about their individual goals and expectations. These conversations help the advisors prepare the candidates for their future job search.

 Between three and six months into the placement, bespoke skills sessions are delivered in-house including CV building, completing application forms, interview preparation and techniques, understanding strengths and weaknesses, and achieving a positive work/life balance through efficient time management.

 The central aim of the training is to enable the candidates to recognise the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout their placements and better understand their choice of career paths including next steps.

 Wayne Noteman, Unity Regeneration Director, said: “I’m a firm believer in growing our own so it’s fantastic to have these impressive young people working with us. Each of them comes from local surrounding communities and has their own unique life stories to tell. What they share are youthful energy, high levels of ability in the workplace, a willingness to learn and a burning desire to succeed.

 “All of which will increase their confidence and make them more marketable in the workplace. We look forward to helping them to continue flourishing with Unity, before using the experience and new skills they have gained to progress their future careers.”  

 Cedric Boston, Unity Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer placements to our four recruits. I heard nothing but positive comments for their work, with each already regarded as a valued member of staff.

 “They also encapsulate Unity’s social purpose which is to fight inequality and empower BME people to improve their lives by creating opportunities and helping to regenerate communities.  Through our involvement in Kickstart, in addition to other projects aimed at boosting the employment prospects of young people, we are making a real difference.”  

 Shannon has completed a Level 3 - BTEC National Diploma in sports and exercise science and is currently assisting the maintenance team with arranging customer appointments, data input and liaising with contractors. She has also spent time with the housing income management and customer service departments.

 She said: “I have learnt a lot so far.  I have really benefitted from shadowing the housing officers and seeing at first hand the wide variety of work they do.”

 Samit has completed A-Level economics, mathematics and physics, and would like to go to university this year to study economics and finance. He is currently assisting the finance team with inputting and raising invoices.

 Samit said: “This is a genuinely great opportunity, setting me up for anything I may want to do in the future. With great colleagues and a wonderful work environment, joining Unity was one of the best decisions I could have made.”

 Deshanti has experience within customer service and cashier roles, having completed GCSE business studies, electronic document preparation, principles of accounts and family resource and management.  She is currently working with the housing team, directly managing a small number of tenancies, shadowing housing officers and assisting tenants with their queries.

 Deshanti said: “I find the team very supportive in helping me gain customer service and IT skills.  Unity has motivated me to work harder and be more confident with leadership roles, developing interpersonal skills and problem solving skills in a positive environment.”

 Ben has worked in a Jobcentre and completed NVQ Level 2 qualifications in business administration and customer service.  He is already a valued member of the regeneration team, visiting development sites and learning how Unity provides new homes for local communities in Leeds.  

 Ben said: “The regeneration team has shown me how Unity goes through the process of acquiring new properties.  I enjoy being on site and meeting with the construction teams.”  

Burendo announce new Finance Director

Leeds-based agile business transformation leader Burendo has appointed Sadie Alton as Finance Director.

Sadie Alton Adam, Burendo Associate Director

She joins from a competitor technical consultancy where her outstanding work led to her being shortlisted for the 2021 Northern Finance Director Award.   

A graduate of Newcastle University, Sadie arrives at Burendo with more than two decades of experience in corporate finance, restructuring and as a Finance Director.

She is the latest high profile recruit to an almost 150-strong team at Burendo which specialises in empowering large organisations and SMEs to improve their agile adoption and delivery processes.

Set up in 2018 by Gary Green, Glenn Crossley and Austen Bell, the firm is on course to achieve an £18 million turnover in the current financial year. 

Gary Green, Burendo People Director, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Sadie.  She is a leader in her field and a perfect fit for Burendo.    

 “Sadie has an impressive career history, having worked for some of the biggest names in business.

 “She also headed her own consultancy for a significant period and is someone who leads from the front.  

 “It is fantastic to have her onboard as the Burendo continues to grow rapidly.” 

 Sadie Alton said: “I am excited to be joining Burendo which, in its short history, has established a formidable reputation for delivering large scale business transformation nationally and globally.

 “The company attracts talented and motivated individuals who flourish in a culture which puts people first.

 “It is a privilege to be taking up the role of Finance Director at such an exhilarating stage of Burendo’s development.”   

Partnership trio set to boost health and wellbeing in Bradford

Manningham Housing Association (MHA), Hollings Youth Association and the Meridian Centre have been chosen to deliver an ambitious schedule of activities to improve the health and wellbeing of young people in the one of the most deprived neighbourhoods in Bradford.

The JU:MP Programme, led by Active Bradford, is one of 12 delivery pilots funded by Sport England to test and learn how to build healthier, more active communities across the country.

The three Bradford-based partners will focus on Manningham where they have worked for together for many years.

Hollings Youth Association will lead on the provision of sporting sessions including football, cricket, rounders, basketball, netball and swimming.

The Meridian Centre will be at the forefront of delivering other get fit activities such as family ‘walk ‘n’ talks,’ yoga-cise, zumba-cise and bangra-cise, together with healthy eating and cooking sessions.

MHA will support the full range of offerings and also provide online help to people with mobility issues, caring responsibilities and disabilities, as well as those who may be encountering cultural barriers.

Last year, Manningham Housing Association won a Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Award for its outstanding work in caring for the needs of its tenants and surrounding communities during the pandemic.

It was also shortlisted for two UK Housing Awards including Landlord of the Year.

Nasir Hussain, MHA Community Partnerships and Investment Manager, said: “It has been an incredibly challenging two years for everyone because of Covid, but throughout this period we have been more determined than ever to do everything we can to help local communities in Bradford and Keighley.

Nasir Hussain, MHA Community Partnerships and Investment Manager (left), with Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive

“Our hugely successful Building Bridges Bradford project has sought to bolster community resilience through social action activities and supported people experiencing mental health challenges, loss of income and isolation.

“With the end of the pandemic now hopefully in sight, we look forward to working with Hollings Youth Association and the Meridian Centre to further enhance the mental and physical wellbeing of young people in Manningham.

“We are grateful to Active Bradford for choosing our partnership to deliver this exciting initiative and look forward to changing many lives for the better.”

Tausif Mohammed, Hollings Youth Association Director, said: “Hollings Youth Association is delighted to be collaborating with MHA and Meridian Centre on the newly awarded JU:MP tender.

 "This project will have a significant impact on the lives of young people and families in Manningham.

 "Changes to green spaces will be made as part of the project, as well as the creation of new play areas for youngsters.

 "HYA is ecstatic to be on the cutting edge with MHA and Meridian Centre."

Manningham Housing Association’s head office in Bradford

 Shamim Khan, Meridian Centre Trustee, said: “Given the difficulties of the past 24 months, this funding will make a significant difference to the health and wellbeing of the young people of Manningham.

 “The unfortunate historical association with childhood obesity and the closure of services for young people mean this offering is most welcome and provides new and exciting opportunities for our youth to better manage their health whilst having lots of fun. 

 “We extend our gratitude to Sport England and the National Lottery.”

 Sonia Fayyaz, Community Engagement Manager for JU:MP, said: "It is fantastic to see organisations in Manningham working together to encourage children and families to get active in their local community.

“Physical activity contributes to a wide range of outcomes including good mental health, wellbeing, education and life skills.

“The focus of the JU:MP programme is to support small and subtle changes through its delivery that will make a big difference in people’s lives. 

“We welcome the partnership between Manningham Housing Association, the Meridian Centre and Hollings Youth Association to play its pivotal part in inspiring local families to make those small changes with the support of schools, mosques and madrassahs and community organisations in the area."

White Paper is unfocussed and lacks the funds needed to truly level up

The Government’s Levelling Up White Paper contains blurred aspirations and little real investment for left behind communities, the chief executive of Bradford-based Manningham Housing Association has said.

Lee Bloomfield

In a statement issued after Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove presented the 332-page document to MPs earlier today, Lee Bloomfield said: “The present Government was propelled to power off the back of a promise to make swift progress in improving the quality of life of people living in the most deprived neighbourhoods in the country.

 “Whilst I accept that Covid-19 has got in the way of progress, it did buy Ministers more time to transform their campaign slogans into a carefully considered and detailed plan for major investment in left behind communities.

 “Instead, we have a long-winded, unfocussed document with blurred ambitions that lacks the level of new funds required to make a real difference in the short, medium and long-terms.

 “Bradford district has been at the sharp end of an endless stream of broken promises over many years, most recently when commitments to build a new Northern Powerhouse Rail link between Leeds and Manchester - including a through station in Bradford city centre - were found to be empty.

“Young people from Bradford and Keighley, including large numbers from BAME communities, want the chance to achieve their potential through greater access to educational opportunities, more good jobs and many more affordable homes.

 “There is so much talent in the district and we want these aspiring individuals to stay, benefit the economy and lead fulfilling lives.

 “I fear that they have been let down yet again.”       

‘BAME communities must be at the heart of levelling up’ – Manningham Housing Association

The needs of neighbourhoods with high proportions of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) residents must be central to the Government’s levelling-up agenda, the Chair and Chief Executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) have said.

Barrington Billings

In a joint New Year message, Barrington Billings and Lee Bloomfield warned that the Covid-19 pandemic continued to highlight the inequalities BAME communities have endured for decades.

They said: “2020 has been another desperately difficult year for everyone, but particularly for those who have least.

“If Boris Johnson and Michael Gove are serious in their quest to level up society, they should look no further than the most deprived neighbourhoods across the country which often have large numbers of BAME people living there.

“MHA is enormously proud of the work we do in these communities in Bradford and Keighley but, whilst we have high aspirations, our resources are limited.

“After several delays, the Government’s levelling-up White Paper is finally due to be published in January.   Rather than reheated rhetoric, it is our earnest hope that the needs of BAME communities will be at the heart of this document which will become a roadmap for improving the lives of those who require most help.”   

Founded in 1986, MHA manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley.  It is the first housing association in the country to be officially accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.  In 2020, MHA won the Northern Housing Outstanding Approaches to Communications Award for its work in supporting tenants during the pandemic and was shortlisted for two UK Housing Awards including Landlord of the Year.

Lee Bloomfield

In their joint statement, Mr Billings and Mr Bloomfield said that specialist BAME housing providers such as MHA are more than just landlords:

“The untrained eye might think that many of the more overt forms of racism that characterised the second part of the 20th century have disappeared today, but events of the last few years have shown clearly how important it still is to have a strong BAME housing sector. 

“We go beyond the delivery of good quality, affordable housing. We are advocates for our communities, delivering culturally sensitive services and giving individuals and families from BAME backgrounds real opportunities to improve their lives. 

Despite the challenges, they said that MHA was entering 2022 with great optimism: “We are incredibly proud of our staff, all of whom have worked so hard to support each other and the communities we serve during such unprecedented times.  They have risen to the challenge and will continue to do so.

“But we now need the Government to step up and deliver on its promise to truly level up our country, with the needs of BAME people high on that agenda.”      

First time Leeds author breaks menopause taboo

Leeds author Jacqueline Golding has launched her debut novel which centres on the taboo subject of the menopause.

Leeds author Jacqueline Golding at the launch of ‘The Secret Diaries of Menopausal Women’   

‘The Secret Diaries of Menopausal Women’ is a compilation of stories woven into Jacqueline’s personal quest to create a unique ‘Sisterhood.’

She recited passages from the book in a special event at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown, where she has been a tenant for many years, and took part in a lively question and answer session with invited guests.

Jacqueline, a businesswoman of British/Irish and Jamaican heritage, has spent her career supporting underprivileged and vulnerable members of society as a youth worker, family support worker, children’s residential worker and independent skills advisor.

She said: “Menopause is finally being spoken about but simply having a voice isn’t enough.

“My book is about breaking the taboo with transparent stories that I hope will pave the way for future generations of women to own their truths.

“After meeting my own menopause head-on and realising how the transition affects mental health, I set myself the challenge of writing a book as a source of support for women during their own transition.

“It features the highs, the lows, the hot flushes, finding enlightenment and everything in between.

“I hope women and men take the opportunity to read my book with a smile.” 

‘The Secret Diaries of Menopausal Women’ has already had its first review.

Roshan Pitteea wrote: “Parts of this book will make you roar with laughter as you realise that you've already met these women (and their menopause) in some form or another - maybe a friend, family member or even yourself?

“But far from using humour to gloss over the profound, life-changing impact of menopause, Golding fearlessly tackles the symptoms and issues in a warm yet unflinching manner to give her readers a real 'chin-hairs and all' perspective. 

“Make no mistake, this book isn't just for women. Men need to pick this book up too so that they can better support the women in their lives.”

Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive Cedric Boston: “We were delighted to host the launch of Jacqueline’s debut novel at Unity Business Centre where she is a popular and long-standing tenant.  

“Her love and flair for writing is well known. I have no doubt that the book will be a huge success.”   

‘The Secret Diaries of Menopausal Women’ is available to order online at www.menodiaries.co.uk priced £12.99.