Applications invited for key Unity leadership positions

Unity Homes and Enterprise is recruiting a Group Chair and new housing board members.

The Leeds-based BME housing association, formed in 1987, manages more than 1,350 high quality affordable properties across the city and in Kirklees.

It holds the highest ratings for governance and viability from the Regulator of Social Housing and has just been shortlisted in four separate categories for the Northern Housing Awards 2023.

In addition to its role as a landlord and provider of housing services, Unity helps people set up and run their own businesses, enter employment, and access training, education and volunteering opportunities.

The new Group Chair will take over from Shruti Bhargava who steps down later this year after holding the post since 2015.

Whilst previous non-executive experience is not essential for the successful housing board members, they should have first-hand knowledge of either governance, human resources, legal operations or health and safety.    

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “These roles offer fantastic opportunities to shape and support Unity Homes and Enterprise’s vital work and make a real difference to people’s lives.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive 

“We are in the second year of our new Corporate Plan that sets out our strategic vision until 2026.  Our services are improving, we are attracting regional and national recognition for our work, and we are working with partners to develop creative solutions to problems in local communities.

“The Group Chair is a key position in our governance structure, helping to ensure Unity’s progress continues, the board fulfils its regulatory responsibilities, the organisation stays on course with its financial plans and we manage risks.

“The new housing board members will bring their own particular areas of expertise together with an unwavering commitment to succeed on behalf of the tenants whose needs we strive to meet.”

Applications close at midnight on 14 May 2023.  

More details - including recruitment packs - are available on the Unity Homes and Enterprise website.

‘Exemplar’ housing association retains national quality mark

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has retained its Customer Service Excellence national quality mark after a 12-month review.

The accreditation is awarded to organisations judged to have a “truly customer-focused culture” following a rigorous assessment process.

The independent assessor held discussions with MHA staff at all levels as well as with board representatives, customer panel members, suppliers and tenants.

He also visited partner organisation Hollings Youth Association where he met eight customers who, according to his final report,  “confirmed the extent to which Manningham Housing Association works in partnership to provide services to the disadvantaged and hard to reach groups.”

In his conclusions, he wrote: “Manningham Housing Association is an exemplar of a diverse and inclusive organisation, with all associated with it committed to providing an excellent service for tenants and the community.

“The organisation is performing well in very challenging circumstances [and] has maintained a series of mutually beneficial partnerships which lead to ‘win win win’ outcomes.

“Manningham Housing Association punches well above its weight but at last is getting the rightful recognition it deserves.”

MHA team members at the association’s head office in Bradford

Nadim Khaliq, MHA Head of Housing Services, was singled out for praise by the assessor “for his cooperation and patience throughout.” 

Nadim commented: “I am thrilled that we have again met the requirements of the scheme and continue to make positive progress as a truly community based BAME housing association.

“There have been immense challenges for everyone at MHA over the past three years, beginning with the onset of the pandemic and continuing with the cost of living crisis.

“However, challenges bring opportunities and we have endeavoured to get even closer to the communities whose needs we seek to address whilst looking after each other internally as valued MHA team members.”

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “This is another highly worthy and welcome judgement on where MHA has reached as an organisation.

“As Chair, I am pleased that the senior management team have been praised by the assessor for the stability, direction and assurance for the future that they offer, and our new board appointments have been welcomed because of the skill sets and new thinking that they bring to the table.

“But there is no such thing as hierarchy at MHA.  We are all pulling in the same direction and trying to achieve the same aims.  That remains key to our continued success.”   

Founded in 1986, Manningham Housing Association manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley.

New appointment will be driven by social purpose at Unity Homes and Enterprise

Unity Homes and Enterprise has appointed Katherine Proctor as Director of Housing Operations.

Katherine Proctor who is joining Unity Homes and Enterprise as Director of Housing Operations

She joins the Leeds-based BME housing association after nine years at Yorkshire Housing where she held a succession of senior positions including Head of Repairs and Investment, Head of Homeworks and Building Service Manager.  

A graduate of the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, Ms Proctor is a former Chair of the Chartered Institute of Housing’s Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Board.

In her new role, she will provide strategic direction for the delivery of Unity’s housing services including tenancy management, responsive repairs, planned and cyclical maintenance, estates services, customer services and rental income.

Established in 1987 and holding the highest gradings from the Regulator of Social Housing, Unity manages more than 1,350 properties for tenants in some of the most deprived and multicultural neighbourhoods in Leeds.

Alongside its role as a landlord and provider of housing services, the association helps people to set up and run their own businesses and access employment, training education opportunities.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Unity is making great progress in delivering a transformational Corporate Plan rooted in our social purpose which was recently reviewed.

“Being the best performing and a well-regarded landlord is at the top of our priority and Katherine will be at the heart of this work.

“She possesses all of the skills and experiences that are key to the role. 

“We are excited to welcome her to the Senior Management Team.”

Katherine Proctor said: “I look forward to leading on the delivery of services that matter most to Unity customers and make a significant difference to people’s lives, particularly customers from the BME community who continue to face inequalities socio-economically and in housing provision.

“Unity has strong values and its social purpose demonstrates that the association cares about making a difference, mirroring my own values and purpose which really matter to me.

“It is clear that Unity has high ambitions for itself and the people whose needs it works so hard to address.

“Working with colleagues at every level of the organisation, I know we can achieve a lot together.”  

Ms Proctor will take up the post in June.

Manningham Housing Association recognised for commitment to diversity and inclusion

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has been shortlisted for Best Approach to Diversity and Inclusion at the Northern Housing Awards 2023.

Team members (from left to right) Ulfat Hussain, Zahid Hafajee, Prafula Parsotam and Nazneen Zafar hosting a Mela for the MHA family at Bradford City FC

The award is for housing providers “who show a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion – both within their own organisation and the wider housing sector.”

MHA is one of four finalists in the category with the winner due to be announced at a ceremony at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on 2 May.    

The association - which manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley - is already the first in the country to be officially accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, and last year won the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Equality Trailblazer Award.

In reaching their decision to shortlist MHA, the Northern Housing Awards judges cited a recent report from an external assessor which stated that “diversity and inclusion is deeply embedded in the DNA of Manningham Housing Association.”

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of everything MHA does. It is our collective mission to celebrate difference, it makes us what we are. 

“National Inclusion Week is one of MHA’s annual highlights.  Last year, we held daily communal lunches with cuisine from different parts of the world, hosted Q&A sessions on faith and culture, and encouraged staff to dress traditionally. 

“We also run regular inclusion and unconscious bias training sessions for staff and Board members, and carry out regular internal surveys on diversity and inclusion issues.   

“The MHA family will always be there for each other and the communities we serve from all social, ethnic and diverse backgrounds. 

“Each one of them deserves credit in being shortlisted for this prestigious award.”

MHA staff at the association’s Bradford head office

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “Whilst MHA is a relatively small housing association, we have a hard-earned reputation for punching well above our weight and for standing up for those marginalised communities often without a voice.

“That includes turning our words into actions.  

“The judges’ decision to include us in the final four for this Northern Housing Award is recognition of our continued success in transforming our diversity and inclusion goals into positive outcomes.”  

Project to boost female entrepreneurship in Leeds launches at Unity Business Centre

Unity Business Centre has hosted the launch of a new programme designed to empower female entrepreneurs in Leeds to achieve their business goals.

The Fund Her Leeds project – a combination of virtual and in-person events - has been developed by Fund Her North in partnership with the Yorkshire Asian Business Association (YABA) and backed by grant funding from Leeds City Council’s Innovation@Leeds programme.

It aims to provide focussed support for selected female entrepreneurs, particularly those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, in areas including access to bespoke finance, readiness for growth and pitch deck preparation. 

The launch event included speeches from two senior elected members of Leeds City Council - Cllr Salma Arif, Executive Member for Public Health and Active Lifestyles, and Cllr Mohammed Rafique, Executive Member for Environment and Housing – together with contributions from YABA Board member Dally Purewal and Fund Her North co-founders Jordan Dargue and Helen Oldham.  

Cllr Salma Arif, Executive Member for Public Health and Active Lifestyles at Leeds City Council, addressing the Fund Her Leeds launch event

Welcoming participants, Jordan Dargue said: “To be able to grow a business successfully, you have got to bring investment in – whether that is grant-based investment, community investment or private equity.  However, for every pound that goes into a male-founded business in the UK, only one penny goes into a female-founded business which is clearly very unbalanced.

“That is why it is so fantastic to see such see a diverse group of women in the room.  I am delighted we are doing this programme at Unity Business Centre.”

The building is one of three centres operated by Unity Enterprise, the not-for-profit subsidiary of Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, to support entrepreneurial activity in the city. 

Sharon Jandu OBE, Unity Enterprise Chair, told the gathering: “I believe in powerful business partnerships.  This is a fantastic partnership with Fund Her North, YABA and Leeds City Council who are all doing amazing things.

“Unity Enterprise is proud to be teaming up with them to run this programme right in the heart of the local community.”       

The opening group discussion at the launch of Fund Her Leeds

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Fund Her Leeds is a first class initiative which we are really pleased to host.

“Unity is wholly committed to inclusive growth by helping people set up and grow their own successful business.  Each new enterprise has the potential to transform life chances by boosting career opportunities, creating jobs and increasing local prosperity.

“The outstanding speaker line-up and the impressive group of participants at the launch of Fund Her Leeds highlights the depth and quality of female entrepreneurs in the city and the collective determination to achieve even greater business outcomes.”   

The Innovation@Leeds support is financed by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, administered locally by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

New affordable housing scheme named after celebrated Leeds teacher

Heather Paul, daughter of Gertrude Paul - the first black teacher in Leeds and a founder member of Leeds West Indian Carnival – has joined the leader and chief executive of Leeds City Council, tenants and project partners at the opening of a new affordable housing development named in honour of her mother.

Right to left: Unity chief executive Cedric Boston with Heather Paul, Unity chair Shruti Bhargava, community artist Marcus Browne and Leeds City Council leader Cllr James Lewis at the opening of Gertrude Paul Court  

Gertrude Paul Court, containing 24 flats, is the larger of two blocks of an innovative Unity Homes and Enterprise scheme comprising 30 one and two bedroomed homes for people aged 55 and over.

Heather unveiled a specially commissioned artwork celebrating her mother’s legacy created by local community artist Marcus ‘Hyro’ Browne which will be permanently on display inside the building.

The Unity scheme is part of a wider £9.3 million development of 63 affordable homes on the site at Leopold Street in Chapeltown previously owned by Leeds City Council.

The exterior of Gertrude Paul Court

The remainder of the properties form a brand new cohousing community, Chapeltown Cohousing, which was recently showcased in a BBC documentary. 

Homes England provided £1.4 million in grant support to the project with the Housing Infrastructure Fund allocating £1.34 million.

Addressing the large gathering of guests at the celebratory event, Heather Paul said: “Thanks to Unity, in partnership with Chapeltown Cohousing, for creating such a wonderful overall development in the area.

“Particular thanks and gratitude for naming this block after my late mother.

“It is a phenomenal legacy for the community, but also for us as a family.   

“It is a great tribute.  Her story carries on, her memory carries on and her impact carries on intergenerationally.

“Although she was my mother, I know she was an incredible woman of many talents who touched many people in her time. A woman of many firsts.”   

Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council said: “Providing decent housing for people is one of the biggest issues we face as a Council.

“I am so pleased that we’re able to work with Unity.  It is such a great project to come and see and to have yet more quality housing in Leeds.”   

Tom Riordan, chief executive of Leeds City Council, said: “I was always struck by Gertrude Paul’s story which Heather has kept going with her work in advocating for those positive role models from the black community who have helped to build the city.

“That is why naming the building after Gertrude is so appropriate.”      

Leeds City Council chief executive Tom Riordan (right) and Unity chair Shruti Bhargava (second from left) at the opening of Gertrude Paul Court with (from left to right) Cllr Mohammed Rafique, Cllr Eileen Taylor, Cllr James Lewis and Cllr Jane Dowson

Shruti Bhargava, Unity Homes and Enterprise chair, after thanking the speakers and project partners, said: “I am so excited to be here because I remember when this was just a muddy field.

“It took years for the building work to begin before Cllr Eileen Taylor, then Lord Mayor of Leeds, laid the first stone in 2019 – and now here we are.

“It is fantastic."       

Trio of Board appointments at Manningham Housing Association

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has made three Board appointments. 

Rupert Pometsey becomes Vice Chair with Alice Kinder and John Knox joining the Bradford-based organisation as new Board members.

They replace Abdul Ravat, Vicky Szulist and Haroon Rashid who have stepped down after many years of collective service.  

Rupert Pometsey

Mr Pometsey is an architect and brings with him a wealth of experience following a career spanning over two decades of senior level experience as a housing development and asset management professional. Between 2015 and 2023 he was the Director of Development and Growth at Incommunities. Previously, he was the Managing Director of Firebird Joint Venture Company and Lumia Homes. He has served on the MHA Board since September 2022 and was the association’s Director of Development and Asset Management from 1998 – 2005. He was also a Board Member and Chair of the development company at Ongo Homes for several years. He has a real passion for tenant involvement and customer service having worked for the Tenant Participation Advisory Service (TPAS).

Alice Kinder

Alice Kinder is a specialist Employment Solicitor at the firm Bexley Beaumont.  The current Vice President of Birmingham Law Society – believed to be the youngest person to hold this role in the Society's 200-year history - and a Social Mobility Ambassador for the Law Society of England and Wales, she is also experienced in delivering training and strategic advice on equality, diversity and inclusion issues.

John Knox

John Knox is Director of Strategy Implementation and Head of Property at The Anglican Diocese of Leeds.  An experienced accountant with expertise in a wide range of policy areas including property and corporate governance, he is an associate member of both the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and Chartered Global Management Accountants, and an IOSH Health and Safety Trained Practitioner.

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “I congratulate Rupert on his appointment as Vice Chair and welcome Alice and John as new members of the Board.

“Each brings a special insight into different aspects of MHA’s activities and will undoubtedly make substantial contributions to the association’s ever growing success.

“I also pay wholehearted tribute to our retiring members - Abdul, Vicky and Haroon – for all they have done for MHA. 

“The pandemic and ongoing cost of living crisis have made the past three years particularly challenging for our residents, staff and Board. 

“That has not stopped MHA from devising innovative plans for the future.  Board members will be central to rolling these out and, with the new appointments, we have never been better equipped to keep moving forward.”  

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, said: “Alongside my colleagues on the Executive Team, I look forward to working closely with Rupert, Alice and John in the years ahead. 

“The Board vacancies attracted a high level of interest nationally, which is testament to the positive strides the association has made in recent years.  

“I know that the MHA family - residents, staff, Board members and partner organisations – have exciting times ahead.”   

New initiative to find and develop Leeds entrepreneurs hailed a success

A specially tailored course designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs in Leeds with the skills and knowledge to start up their own sustainable business has received high praise from the first group of participants.

Steps to Business, organised by Unity Enterprise - the not for profit subsidiary of Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise - was held over four days last month at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown.

A Steps to Business workshop

It included a series of three-hour workshops, facilitated by leading training company PeoplePlus, covering a broad selection of topics ranging from marketing and bookkeeping through to guidance on how to transform an initial idea into a viable business concept.   

Feedback from participants has been universally positive.

Andrew, who took part in the programme, said: “It was the best business workshop I have attended.”

Miguel, who also attended, said: “It was inspiring.”

Tracey said: “Steps to Business workshops was fantastic, I attended all four sessions. It has allowed me to focus on what is necessary to start a business, adjust what I thought I knew and give me brand new tools to move forward with.  I would highly recommend this course to my friends as I believe this is something that is needed especially in the community and this current climate.”

Following the success of the programme in its first rollout, Steps to Business will run again from 17 to 20 April.   

Richard Aitoro, Business Advisor at Unity Enterprise, said: “The sessions were interactive and highly engaging which served to not only inform those taking part but inspire and motivate them along a positive entrepreneurial trajectory.

Unity Business Centre

“The individual modules were in depth, leaving everyone involved with a good level of insight into each topic covered.

“The PeoplePlus course facilitators were highly engaging, witty and altogether positive.

“The supportive atmosphere created a space where participants exchanged numbers and said they would enjoy attending other courses as part of the workshop group.”

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “We are really pleased at how well Steps to Business went first time around, as underlined by our decision to run a second programme in April.    

“Unity is fully committed to doing all we can to identify and develop entrepreneurial talent in the local community including through the provision of interactive training from experienced business professionals.    

“PeoplePlus are leaders in this field and the ideal partners for this innovative venture.

“I would urge people of all ages who believe they have a sound business idea and a commitment to make it succeed to consider signing up for the next round of Steps to Business. 

“It is a decision with the potential to transform their lives.”     

Liz Shaw, Contract Manager Peopleplus for Start Up West Yorkshire, said: “Thank you for allowing myself and my team to deliver a programme of business workshops in Unity Business Centre.

“It was fantastic to see so many business owners and starts up’s in one room, learning and networking over those four days.

“We thoroughly enjoyed delivering the programme and interaction and are looking forward to the next set of participants in April.”

Anyone interested in joining the next Steps to Business programme should contact Richard Aitoro at richard.aitoro@unityha.co.uk or Tel: 07395 328123.     

Budget offers little comfort for those on lowest incomes

The chief executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has described today’s Budget statement as providing “little comfort for those on the lowest incomes.” 

Speaking after the Jeremy Hunt’s statement to MPs earlier today, Lee Bloomfield said: “Shortly after the Chancellor sat down, the independent Office for Budget Responsibility announced that living standards are expected to drop by 6 per cent in the current financial year and next – the largest fall since records began in the 1950s.

Lee Bloomfield, Manningham Housing Association chief executive

“With inflation predicted to stay relatively high by modern standards for the rest of this year and with personal taxation allowances not going up in April, this Budget provides little comfort for those on the lowest incomes.

“After the disastrous Budget last autumn, Jeremy Hunt had little money left to give away.

“However, it is notable that the only permanent tax cut he announced - costing £1 billion a year - was scrapping the lifetime allowance on tax-free pension contributions which only helps those on very high incomes.

“The extension of the freeze on energy bills for another three months is welcome but bills will not come down despite the wholesale gas price falling significantly.

“There was little on levelling up, nothing on building more affordable homes and, other than floating the idea of creating an investment zone in West Yorkshire, no new funds for Bradford despite previous promises of help, particularly around transport infrastructure.

“It is difficult to see what there was to cheer for the communities Manningham Housing Association is proud to serve.”  

Leeds Media Centre refurbishment gaining pace

Swift progress is being made on a £1.8 million redevelopment scheme which will create additional business space and improve life chances for aspiring entrepreneurs in Leeds.  

Cedric Boston, Unity Home and Enterprise chief executive (left), and Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, at Leeds Media Centre which is undergoing a major upgrade

Scaffolding his been erected around Leeds Media Centre in Chapeltown in preparation for the installation of a new roof and modern windows.

Internal works are already well underway to remodel the ground and lower ground floors to create space for up to 12 new business units and a bespoke business hub with hi-tech virtual facilities.

The project, due for completion this summer, is being delivered by Unity Enterprise – a not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise – in partnership with Leeds City Council. 

It is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund including support for a full-time business adviser to assist young businesses, with an emphasis on those working in the creative, digital and media sector.

Leeds Media Centre is owned by Leeds City Council and managed by Unity Enterprise on a long-term lease. 

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “This major refurbishment project will significantly expand the affordable space we can offer local people wanting to launch their own business. 

“We are particularly excited about the new business hub which will enable start-up enterprises to grow quickly without the burden of high overhead costs.    

“Richard Altoro, our full-time business adviser, will take the lead in community outreach work, engage with prospective entrepreneurs who may be considering setting up a business and help to create pathways which can make this a viable career option.”     

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, said: “Working closely with our partners, we are delighted that the project is on time and on budget.

Cedric Boston, Unity Home and Enterprise chief executive (front left), and Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager (front right), at Leeds Media Centre

“Alongside Unity Business Centre and Chapeltown Enterprise Centre, Leeds Media Centre is one of three locations close to Leeds city centre operated by Unity Enterprise.

“Collectively, they provide 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses employing over 750 people.

“We look forward to these numbers rising further when the works are complete.”   

Cllr Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for economy, culture and education at Leeds City Council, said:

“It’s great to see this project gathering momentum as we get one step closer to its completion date.

“Being able to provide further affordable options to aspiring entrepreneurs within the local area is fantastic, and further extends and builds on our excellent ecosystem for innovation across the city.”

Unity Enterprise manager in running for leadership award

The head of a not-for-profit company dedicated to promoting entrepreneurial activity in Leeds has been shortlisted for a Northern Leadership Award.

Adrian Green, manager of Unity Enterprise, a not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, is one of four finalists in the Public and Third Sector Leader category for the awards which “celebrate people that are role models within their organisations and raise the bar for their competitors” across the North of England.

Adrian Green (left) launching the Unity Enterprise “Steps to Business” initiative with Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, in 2022

Established in 2000, Unity Enterprise currently provides 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses across three centres close to Leeds city centre. 

Mr Green joined in 2016 after working in a range of client-facing roles with major private sector employers including Jay Tee Group, Bank of Scotland and Yorkshire Bank.

He said: “I am flattered to be shortlisted for this award.

“The honour is most definitely shared with my team and our tenants who make Unity Enterprise what it is.

“The past three years have been incredibly difficult because of Covid and the ongoing economic challenges for businesses and households.   

“However, that has not stopped us putting exciting plans in place across our business centres. 

 “This recognition shows that influential people are taking notice of the work we are doing.”    

 Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “Adrian has honed many capabilities across his career and possesses advanced business and property skills. 

“Using those skills, Adrian helps people, nurtures entrepreneurial talent and empowers enterprises to grow in a thriving business environment.

“He also goes the extra mile to make positive things happen in the communities served by Unity Enterprise.  

“I am delighted that his aptitude and dedication has been recognised by the judging panel.”  

The ceremony to announce the winners of the Northern Leadership Awards 2023 will be held on Thursday 30 March at The Midland Hotel in Manchester.

Leeds Jewish Housing Association shortlisted for prestigious award

The biggest construction project in the 70-year history of Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) has been shortlisted for Best Housing Development in the Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Awards 2023.

 An aerial view of Cherry Tree House (left) and Hillside

The award “recognises developments that provide desirable and sustainable places to live, improving people's lives within the community.”

The £14 million scheme at Queenshill Avenue in Moortown comprises 85 new properties including 51 sheltered housing apartments for those aged 55 and over, and 34 general needs apartments.

Kate Henderson, National Housing Federation Chief Executive (left), Cllr Robert W Gettings, Lord Mayor of Leeds (centre); and Cllr Lesley Gettings, Lady Mayoress (second from right) with LJHA residents in Cherry Tree House

It was officially opened last summer by Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, and Cllr Robert W Gettings, Lord Mayor of Leeds.

The sheltered apartments are physically connected to 130 existing properties in three other buildings to form a sheltered village of 181 apartments for older people with secure access to the Ziff Community Centre which provides a range of culturally sensitive services, activities and food.

Craig Simons, LJHA Director of Operations, said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this award.

Craig Simons, Director of Operations at LJHA  

“The new development was many years in the planning, not helped by the onset of the pandemic in March 2020 just as construction was getting underway.  However, LJHA and the Leeds Jewish community are nothing if not resilient and, working closely with Equans, we were determined to see the project through to the end with minimal delays.

 “Acanthus accompanied LJHA staff on road trips to other new build housing schemes to help reach final decisions on exactly what was required aesthetically and how it would work, especially in relation to older persons’ provision. 

“Hiedi Lazenby was engaged with the task of delivering buildings with internal qualities every bit as impressive as the magnificent exteriors.  

“Tenant groups also helped with a range of choices including fixtures and fittings, bathrooms and kitchens.

“The final result was 85 extremely impressive new homes in heart of the community, low rent, modern, energy efficient, warm and secure. 

“LJHA is proud of what has been achieved and delighted that this has been recognised by the Chartered Institute of Housing.”   

Leeds housing association recruiting new director to boost service delivery

Unity Homes and Enterprise is seeking a Director of Housing Operations with expertise in customer service, customer engagement and service delivery.

A permanent position, the successful candidate will provide strategic direction for the delivery of all housing services including tenancy management, responsive repairs, planned and cyclical maintenance, estates services, customer services and rental income.

They will be a corporate player with management experience and a strong commitment to Unity’s social purpose.

Applications from women and people with disabilities are especially welcome.

Holding the highest available gradings the Regulator of Social Housing, Unity is a successful, independent, and ambitious BME housing association operating in some of the most deprived and multicultural neighbourhoods in Leeds.

Alongside its role as a landlord and provider of housing services, the association helps people set up and run their own businesses, secure employment, and take up training, education, and volunteering opportunities to enhance their career prospects.

Unity Chief Executive Cedric Boston

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “It is a particularly exciting time to be joining the organisation as we continue the work to transform our new five-year strategic vision into reality.   

“As a key member of the Senior Management Team, the Director of Housing Operations will have a pivotal role in this exciting phase of Unity’s evolution.  

“We are looking for a person who shares our passion for providing excellent services and has the drive to help people create a better future for themselves and the communities we serve.”  

More information about the post is available on the Unity Homes and Enterprise website.

Applications close at midnight on Sunday 12 February.  

Historic Leeds studios used by Kaiser Chiefs opens for free public tours

Old Chapel Music Studios in Leeds is opening its doors to the public for free organised tours every month until the end of February 2024.

The stage is set at Old Chapel Music Studios 

As well as playing a key part in the stories of some of the city’s best known bands including the Kaiser Chiefs, Embrace, and Red Lorry Yellow Lorry, Old Chapel Music CIC - a not for profit community interest company which manages the studios in Holbeck - supports young people, up-and-coming artists and community groups, giving them access to the same facilities as established bands.

Residents since 1997 when as teenagers they were known as Parva, the Kaiser Chiefs still rehearse at Old Chapel Music Studios and have their own room in the extension they helped to fund in 2013.

Kaiser Chiefs keyboard player Nick ‘Peanut’ Baines said: “Old Chapel is our musical home. Wherever we are within these walls it still feels like home.

“It’s accessible to all, it’s open to all, it’s about music for everyone. It’s a place to create, and a place to be welcomed and a place to be safe.”

The Kaiser Chiefs take a break from rehearsals at Old Chapel Music Studios 

Embrace speak equally highly about the role Old Chapel Studios played in their journey to success.

The band’s drummer, Mike Heaton, said: "My memories of Old Chapel Studios are all really great, we had a lot of fun there.

“It's a great place, great community then, so many different bands, so many different genres of music in there, I don't remember any bad words said between the bands, everyone got on even though we were radically different people.

“It was a space where you could be creative, develop, it was always great value for money and just a fantastic place."

Embrace drummer Mike Heaton (right) with Old Chapel Music CIC Joint CEO Katie Hayes and Studio Supervisor Jim Fields at Old Chapel Music Studios 

Old Chapel Music CIC also works closely with Festival Republic, promoter of the Leeds and Reading Festivals, which guides talented females and female-identified artists into the industry through its ReBalance programme launched in 2018.

Festival Republic Managing Director Melvin Benn said: "It’s rare that community and professional can be used in the same sentence but, when talking about Old Chapel Music Studios, that rarity is allowed.

"They mix that community approach and commitment with a professionalism at all levels that means that young female artists making their first EP like those that have been part of my ReBalance programme feel absolutely at home and confident they will be looked after in the same way that internationally known musicians and bands do. It’s a rare combination.”

The free tours, funded by Leeds Civic Trust, cover the facility’s relocation and rebrand from Parkside Studios in 1992, together with the 30-year tale of its development from a former Wesleyan chapel into the community-focused creative hub it has become.

Featuring never-before-seen artefacts, participants have the chance to get hands-on with instruments and recording facilities, join in with quizzes and take away photo mementos from their visit.

The tours run at 11.30am and 2.30pm on the last Sunday of every month. They should be booked in advance by visiting oldchapelleeds.org and going to the ‘events’ page.

Peer joins UK Government Minister in criticism of BBC NI over cuts to local radio

A Minister has admitted to Ulster Unionist peer Lord Rogan that the UK Government was “disappointed with how the BBC handled its announcement of cuts to Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle.”

Lord Rogan wrote to Arts Minister Lord Parkinson in November expressing his “outrage” after a personal assurance that Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle would not be affected by BBC cuts proved to be inaccurate.

Following an announcement in October that programming on BBC local radio stations in England was to be reduced, Lord Rogan tabled a Parliamentary Question asking what discussions the Government had held with the BBC “about cuts to local radio services” and whether there had been “any indication that BBC Radio Ulster or BBC Radio Foyle, will be affected by such cuts”

In his response, Lord Parkinson said: “The BBC’s recent announcement will only affect the BBC’s local radio services in England. There should be no impact on BBC Radio Ulster or BBC Radio Foyle.”

 It was later confirmed that BBC Northern Ireland is planning to cut local jobs and programming including the daily breakfast news programme on Radio Foyle and the Inside Business programme on Radio Ulster.

 The Ulster Unionist peer wrote to Lord Parkinson seeking an explanation.

 In the Government’s response to Lord Rogan, Media Minister Julia Lopez MP wrote:

 “When Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay answered your Written Parliamentary Question on 17 November, the only changes to BBC Radio services which my Department and I were aware of at the time were to those in England, and we had received no advance notice that reductions to BBC services in Northern Ireland would be announced on 29 November.

 “Following the BBC's announcement relating to England, I met the Chairman and Director-General of the BBC to outline our concerns and the strength of opposition across Parliament to the BBC's proposals. I also raised the lack of warning the BBC had provided the Government about changes to local radio.

Lord Rogan

 “I was therefore disappointed with how the BBC handled its announcement of cuts to Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle.  Following the BBC’s announcement of cuts in Northern Ireland, the Secretary of State for DCMS, the Rt Hon Michelle Donelan MP wrote to the Chair and Director-General to communicate our concerns with how this was handled.”

Lord Rogan said: “I welcome the Minister’s candour but it would appear the situation remains unchanged with the axe continuing to hang over programming at Radio Foyle and also Radio Ulster with Inside Business set to follow Inside Politics on to the scrap heap.

“I share her disappointment at the manner in which the management of BBC Northern Ireland handled the situation with local licence fee payers paying a heavy price, together with those journalists likely to lose their jobs.

“I hope the situation can yet be rectified and a workable solution found.”  

Guiseley Scout thanks Lions for fundraiser support

A young Guiseley AFC season ticket holder has thanked the club after he was given a signed match ball and two free tickets to support his efforts to raise funds to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea.

Guiseley AFC Football Secretary and General Manager James Pickles (left) presents a signed match ball to Jamie White who is raising funds to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree

Jamie White, 14, went through a tough selection process before being chosen to travel to the Far East this summer as a member of the United Kingdom Contingent.

He will join more than 40,000 Scouts from over 150 nations for the event which takes place in a different host country every four years. 

One of the conditions of attendance is that each Scout must raise the money to pay for the trip themselves.

Jamie has now raised more than £2,200 towards his target of £3,800 through a series of ventures including a 12-hour ‘spinathon’ on a static bicycle in his driveway in July.

His latest fundraiser will be a pub quiz at Coopers Bar and Brasserie in Guiseley on Friday 20 January which already looks set to attract a capacity crowd.

Jamie issued an appeal for donations of prizes for the quiz and also a raffle which will take place on the same evening.

Guiseley AFC answered the call with Football Secretary and General Manager James Pickles handing over the signed match ball and tickets to Jamie before last Saturday’s impressive 2-1 league victory over Nantwich Town.   

Jamie said: “I am really grateful to James and Guiseley AFC for their kindness. 

“I think there will be a big turnout for the quiz but we are short of prizes and the ball and tickets are brilliant. 

“It was nice to meet James and thank him in person.”  

 Individuals or businesses who might also be able to offer a prize should contact Jamie’s dad, Barry, on Tel: 07787 514324 or email: barry@vanbarassociates.com

 Anyone wishing to sponsor Jamie’s efforts can do so online by visiting the GoFundMe website and entering ‘Jamie White Scout’ to access his personal page.

Bradford’s potential must be properly harnessed – New Year message

The Chair and Chief Executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) have described Bradford district as “a place of great talent and limitless potential.”

In a joint New Year message, Barrington Billings and Lee Bloomfield also pledged on behalf of the association to continue speaking up for those who struggle to be heard and to make a positive difference to people’s lives in Bradford and Keighley where MHA manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents.

MHA staff in front of the association’s Bradford head office

In their statement, they said: “Despite the huge challenges, 2022 was another successful year for MHA with several award wins and the retention of the association’s accreditations for diversity and inclusion, and also customer excellence where we achieved a compliance plus rating in 11 individual areas of work.  

“The beginning of a brand a new year should be a time for collective renewal and high expectations for the 12 months ahead.

“Instead, as the cost of living crisis tightens its grip and with Government Ministers admitting the country is likely to be in recession for the whole of 2023, reasons for optimism are difficult to find.

“With our partners, MHA is motivated by a burning desire to improve the lives of our tenants in Bradford and Keighley and address the needs of the surrounding communities.

“These are areas which were supposed to be at the top of the list for levelling up and it remains our hope that promises made will be delivered, including better rail links and a new station for Bradford.

“Being UK City of Culture 2025 should be the catalyst for a new era for Bradford district and its people who have so much to offer the country culturally, socially and economically.

“It is a place of great talent and limitless potential.

“But these attributes must be properly harnessed regionally and nationally if that potential is to be fully realised.  

“MHA is keen to partner with any organisation which is committed to boosting the quality of lives here.

“That may include helping us to provide more high quality affordable homes, supporting neighbourhood skills improvement programmes or getting involved with community engagement schemes which do so much to raise physical and mental wellbeing.     

“MHA is under no illusions about how tough 2023 will be for so many.

“However, we are resolute in our determination to make it a year we will look back on with pride.

“Over the next 12 months, the association will continue to speak up for people who often struggle to be heard.

“But we will do much more than talking.  Working in partnership with those who share our vision, we will improve lives, we will raise aspirations, we will make a positive difference.”      

Unity apprentice Kickstarts career with national award

Ben Coultas, a 23-year-old apprentice from Leeds, has won a prestigious national award for his selfless efforts in helping others on a job placement scheme for young people at risk of long-term unemployment.

Ben triumphed in the Peer to Peer Mentor category at the Clarion Kickstart Housing Partnership Awards held at Chelsea Football Club’s Stamford Bridge stadium in London.

Established by the Clarion Housing Group, the partnership comprises 84 organisations from the public, private and voluntary sectors, with 58 from the housing sector.

They include Leeds-based housing association, Unity Homes and Enterprise, where Ben completed his placement and is now employed as a full-time apprentice in the Regeneration Department.

More than 500 individuals aged 16-24 year-olds were supported into paid six-month roles through the scheme.  

Following a rigorous selection process, Ben was placed with Unity’s Regeneration team where he was able to access training courses including communication skills and Excel, and gain first-hand experience of the different processes and situations the team faced each day.

But that was not enough for Ben, one of five Kickstarters at Unity, who was determined to reach out to others on the scheme. 

Unity apprentice Ben Coultas with his Clarion Kickstart Housing Partnership Peer to Peer Mentor Award

Kelly Jennings, Unity Employment Outreach Officers, said: “Ben showed great empathy and support towards fellow Kickstart colleagues, quickly gaining a reputation for his encouragement, dedication and positive attitude to those around him.

“This included assisting one Kickstarter with her application to university by helping her through the process and conducting interviews relevant to the course she had applied for.

 “Throughout his placement, Ben also assisted the Employment Services team with our employability and training sessions.

 “Nothing was ever too much trouble.  He is a real star.”

 Wayne Noteman, Unity Regeneration Director, said: “Ben has come on and developed so much in his time with Unity, both as a professional and a young man.

First on the Kickstart scheme and now as an apprentice, giant strides have been made.

“I am so proud of him, his award is thoroughly deserved.

“Ben has a great future ahead in housing.  I hope he stays with Unity where I know he will fulfil his enormous potential.”

Cedric Boston, Unity Chief Executive, said: “Unity takes immense pride in the work we do to reach out to the local community and create opportunities for local people to transform their life chances.

“Ben has not only grabbed his opportunity but gone the extra mile to help others as the judges have recognised by giving him this national award.

“He has an excellent career in prospect and can be a role model for others in the local community.”  Ben, who attended Lawnswood School in Leeds, said: “I am very proud to have won the award for Peer to Peer Mentor as I always try to support my colleagues where I can.

 “The people who work at Unity and within my team have made it easy for me to be happy, knowing we all strive to make a difference in our communities.

 “I hope to continue to achieve great things with Unity.”

Dynamic leader brings wealth of experience to Unity

Sharon Jandu, Managing Director of the Northern Asian Power policy think tank, has been appointed as Chair of Unity Enterprise and a Board Member of Unity Housing Association.

Amongst other leadership positions, Ms Jandu, a co-founder of Yorkshire Asian Business Association, also serves as the Federation of Small Businesses Area Leader in Yorkshire, the Humber and the North-East, and is a Confederation of British Industry Regional Council Member for Yorkshire and the Humber,

Unity Enterprise and Unity Housing Association are part of the Unity Homes and Enterprise Group based in the Chapeltown area of Leeds.

Unity Housing Association was formed in 1987 to address the needs of black and minority ethnic communities in Leeds, and now manages over 1,350 properties for tenants from all communities and ethnic backgrounds.

Unity Enterprise was established in 2000 as a not-for-profit subsidiary company to support local entrepreneurial activity.  It currently provides 142 affordable units for more than 80 diverse businesses across three centres in Leeds. 

That number is set to increase next summer following the completion of a £1.8 million Leeds Media Centre redevelopment scheme which will create 12 new units and a bespoke business hub.  

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Sharon to Unity.  She is a highly respected, dynamic leader with a wealth of experience gained in the private, public and third sectors.

“Sharon also has a deep appreciation of the issues affecting the communities we are privileged to work with every day.

“The revitalisation of these communities is not just about providing high quality affordable homes, but also stimulating social and economic regeneration, improving life opportunities and addressing inequalities within sustainable neighbourhoods.

Sharon Jandu

“In her dual roles, Sharon will enable Unity to further advance these objectives.”        

Sharon Jandu said: “I lived in Chapeltown for nearly 10 years. I know the area well and how it feels to live in a challenged community.

“Unity has earned a reputation as one of the country’s most successful and forward-thinking housing associations, driven by its social purpose to fight inequality and empower BME people.    

“Unity Enterprise is a key component of this work through its support for local businesses including initiatives to identify and develop local entrepreneurs.  The upgrade of Leeds Media Centre will provide a major boost to these efforts and increase economic activity in Chapeltown and surrounding areas. 

“As Chair, I look forward to being at the heart of delivering a winning strategy to help many more people fulfil their business potential and live better lives.”