Digital transformation reaps rewards for Manningham Housing Association

New figures show that Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has significantly increased its digital engagement with customers, project partners and the public over the past 12 months.

Its annual digital and communications report, produced by MHA Corporate Project Manager Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, shows that interactions across a broad spectrum of social media channels reached new heights.

The number of Twitter users following the Bradford-based association’s posts has risen by a healthy 16.92% since July last year, with Facebook followers up by almost 23% and the number of LinkedIn followers rising by an even more impressive 25.93%.

Meanwhile, the ever-expanding video content available on MHA’s YouTube channel has led to remarkable growth in viewing figures of more than 229%.    

The past 12 months have also brought greater use of its bespoke digital platforms including the MyMHA portal which is now utilised by more than two thirds of the association’s households compared to just a third last July.

A rolling refresh of MHA’s internal communications has also brought positive results.

Initiatives include the launch of a new internal newsletter and the rollout of internal social network Yammer to further boost staff engagement, increase capacity for sharing ideas and enhance an already positive working environment. 

The first housing association in the country to be officially accredited for its work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, in the past year MHA has won the British Standards Institution Users Award for Sustainability, the Northern Housing Team of the Year Award, the Northern Housing Tenant of the Year Award, and the West and North Yorkshire Chamber Equality Trailblazer Award.

And just last month, MHA Tenant Panel member Salma Khatun was named Tenant of the Year at the Housing Heroes Awards.

Lee Bloomfield, MHA Chief Executive, said: “We have many good stories to tell and we are keen to share them as far and wide as possible.  

“The major improvements in the quality, impact and reach of our communications operations – internally and externally – have brought significant benefits.

“These efforts were especially important during the pandemic and, having ramped up these activities, we are committed not only to maintain but to increase them in the months and years ahead.

“Special credit must go to Carolina who has been the driving force behind this work, including all our social media activities.”       

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, MHA Corporate Project Manager (seated), with staff team members

Carolina Padovezi de Oliveira, MHA Corporate Project Manager, said: "Manningham Housing Association is all about positivity and moving with the times for the benefit of our customers.

“I am so pleased that the efforts we have made to improve our communications has broadened interest in what we do and how we do it.

“Looking ahead, we intend to build on the strong foundations now created by further improving our digital offering and staying even more closely connected with our tenants, staff and partners.”

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “The association has a well-earned reputation for punching well above our weight.  This report is just the latest example of that.

“MHA has embraced the digital era full on and intends to maximise its many benefits in our pursuit of enhancing our service offer to our tenants.

“I congratulate Carolina for her hard work, ingenuity and total commitment to every challenge she takes on as we continue to push the boundary of possibilities presented by the new digital era." 

New Tuntum affordable housing scheme named after Nottingham Windrush icons

VIP guests and project partners have joined residents to celebrate the opening of a new £4.7 million housing scheme in Nottingham named after two pioneering former city councillors from the Windrush generation.

Delivered by Tuntum Housing Association in partnership with Homes England and Nottingham Community Housing Association, the development at Manning Street off Woodborough Road comprises 17 houses and 11 flats at affordable rent for individuals and families on low incomes.

Tuntum has named the streets after two civic icons from the Windrush generation.  

Des Wilson Mews is named after the first black Lord Mayor of Nottingham and Tony Robinson Close after the city’s first black Sheriff.   

The families of both men took part in the formal opening ceremony alongside the President of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), Lara Oyedele; the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Cllr Carole McCulloch; the Deputy Leader of Nottingham City Council and former Chair of Tuntum, Councillor Audra Wynter; former Leader of Nottingham City Council, Jon Collins; and the Member of Parliament for Nottingham East, Nadia Whitome.  

(L to R): Cllr Devontay Okure; Cllr Carole Jenkins; Maria Wilson (Des Wilson’s daughter); Deputy Leader of Nottingham City Council, Audra Wynter; former Leader of Nottingham City Council, Jon Collins; Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Cllr Carole McCulloch; Tuntum Chair Junior Hemans; CIH President Lara Oyedele; and Richard Renwick MBE, Tuntum

Founded in 1988, Tuntum is a Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) led housing association based in Nottingham which manages over 1,600 homes for more than 3,000 people in 12 local authority areas.

It also provides accommodation and specialist housing services for older people, refugees, young mothers, people suffering with mental health difficulties and homeless young people.

In addition, Tuntum delivers a range of non-housing initiatives including the Nottingham Carnival, Refugee Futures, Headwize and staff-led ‘Social Value’ days. 

Richard Renwick MBE, Tuntum Chief Executive, said: “These 28 new social homes – which are already fully tenanted - will make a real difference to many lives.

“We are immensely grateful to Homes England, which provided a £1.1 million grant subsidy, and our lead delivery partners, Nottingham Community Housing Association, for their magnificent support which enabled the development to progress.  

“Tuntum is also indebted to the families of Des Wilson and Tony Robinson for giving permission for the streets to be named after these two great men, and for taking part in the opening ceremony itself.

“Their presence made the occasion even more special.” 

Junior Hemans, Tuntum Chair, said: “This is a proud and historic moment for us. 

“Tuntum’s founders were from the Windrush generation and, as the only independent BME-led housing association in the East Midlands, we will always remain true to their ideals.

“They were community activists and professionals from Nottingham’s black community, motivated by the desire to correct inequality in housing provision, to demonstrate black community self-help, to create economic opportunities and to help build social capital.

“The 17 houses and 11 flats that now stand on streets named in honour of two trailblazers from the Windrush generation are wonderfully appropriate tributes to their collective legacies.”

Lara Oyedele, CIH President, said: “I am ever so proud of Tuntum’s achievement in building these properties and, more importantly, naming the streets after two of Nottingham’s outstanding Windrush pioneers.

“This is a living example of the important role that BME housing associations play in supporting local communities and reminding the housing sector of what the ‘social’ in social housing stands for.”

National recognition for new housing scheme named after inspirational Leeds teacher

A recently completed affordable housing development named in honour of Gertrude Paul, the first black teacher in Leeds, has been shortlisted for a high-profile national award.

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

Gertrude Paul Court which has been shortlisted for an Inside Housing Development Award

The project has been shortlisted by the Inside Housing Development Awards for Best Affordable Housing Development (less than £10 million) for “a development that creates a new community and a desirable, high-quality place to live that residents can afford.”

Gertrude Paul Court was officially opened in March by Heather Paul, Gertrude’s daughter, at a celebratory gathering attended by tenants, project partners and guests including the Leader and Chief Executive of Leeds City Council.      

Heather also unveiled a specially commissioned artwork celebrating her mother’s legacy which is on permanent display inside the building.

The Unity scheme is part of a wider £9.3 million development of 63 affordable homes.

The other properties form a brand new cohousing community, Chapeltown Cohousing.

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

R to L: 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 official opening of Gertrude Paul Court 

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Gertrude Paul was rightly revered for her absolute commitment to improving the life chances of her pupils.

“Alongside our focus on providing high quality affordable homes, Unity is equally driven by a desire to create life opportunities and address inequalities in local communities.

“We are therefore doubly proud that this development, which carries Gertrude’s name, has received national recognition by being shortlisted for such a respected national award.”

The award winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on Friday 29 September.

Unity Chair praised after winning Women in Housing Award

Shruti Bhargava, Chair of Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, has been named Board/Committee Member of the Year at the Women in Housing Awards.    

She received her award in Manchester at the opening ceremony of Housing 2023, the Chartered Institute of Housing’s annual conference and Europe’s largest housing festival.

The Women in Housing Awards “celebrate the leaders, innovators and changemakers across the sector, championing the successes of women and sharing learning from teams and individuals within the housing sector.”

The Board/Committee Member of the Year Award is given to a female board or committee member “who has demonstrated outstanding effort and performance” over the past 12 months and “has made a very real difference.”

Ms Bhargava has been Unity Chair since 2015 and is due to step down from the role at the association’s Annual General Meeting later this year.

Shruti Bhargava receiving her Women in Housing Award from BBC News presenter Huw Edwards

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted that Shruti has won this major national award.  

“She has provided transformational leadership to the association over a prolonged period when Unity has undergone many changes.

“Shruti has an unbreakable commitment to our social purpose to fight inequality and empower BME people to improve their lives by creating opportunities and helping to regenerate communities.

“She has made an exceptional contribution to Unity’s success story.”    

Shruti Bhargava said: “I am surprised and honoured to have won this award.

“I would like to thank Ali Akbor who was alongside me as Unity CEO for six years, past and current Board members Rav Panesar and Andy Welsh, BME National Chair Cym D’Souza and Co-Chair of the Better Social Housing Review Steering Group Charlie Norman for their kind testimonials.

“My thanks also to everyone who has supported me over the years. 

“I’m especially grateful to Unity Homes and Enterprise for giving me a purpose over the last nine years, particularly one that I feel a strong connection to.  I know I will be lucky to find that same level of synergy again.”

New system needed to combat rising wildfire threat, academic warns

The increased threat of wildfires in the UK has hastened the need for a national Fire Danger Rating System (FDRS), a University of Manchester expert has argued.

Last July, multiple Fire and Rescue Services across the country declared major incidents with London Fire Brigade experiencing its busiest single day since the Second World War.

In an article published by the University’s policy engagement unit, Policy@Manchester, Dr Gareth Clay warns that such events “may be signals of times to come.”

He writes: “The impact of climate change suggests we will likely see an increase in the number of days above critical ‘fire danger’ thresholds, which are set by a fire weather index to define danger, with the potential for the wildfire season to extend into autumn.”

For many decades, the United States, Canada and Australia have had Fire Danger Rating Systems in place which assess fuel and weather conditions to provide estimates about potential fire behaviour under specific conditions. This information is used by land managers, planners and emergency services to inform decision making.   

England and Wales rely on the Met Office Fire Severity Index (MOFSI) which, Dr Clay explains, “gives an indication of fire severity based only on meteorological data and does not fully account for the varied fuel types we see across the UK.”

He continues: “MOFSI does not always work effectively. For example, during the dry summer of 2018, in some regions the indices did not rise sufficiently to trigger land closures in areas that went on to experience severe wildfire. This insensitivity demonstrates that other tools are required to properly forewarn responders, landowners, and government agencies about likely fire behaviour.”

Dr Andrew Clay

Dr Clay, a Reader in Physical Geography, reveals that researchers at The University of Manchester are leading a major project to develop new insights into the location and condition of important fuels, “seeing how they react to different weather conditions throughout the year and quantifying how flammable these fuel types are, which will ultimately allow for a tailored UK fire behaviour model to be produced.”  

He writes: “The next step in this journey will be to take the findings from our research and work with partners to develop an operational FDRS in the coming years. These partners include government departments, like the Home Office, Cabinet Office, and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Met Office, wildfire forums across the UK and landowners and managers.”

“This system would allow for management decisions to be taken in advance of heightened fire conditions, such as stepping up additional Fire and Rescue Service crews, modifying land management practices when the danger is high, or increased public-facing messages, including warning signs at popular recreation spots.”

He adds: “Who ultimately co-ordinates a future system is not yet clear, however leadership from government is required.”

Dr Clay’s article, Spreading like wildfire: the need for a UK Fire Danger Rating System,  is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.  

Manningham Housing Association tenant is a Housing Hero

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) tenant Salma Khatun has been named Tenant of the Year at the Housing Heroes Awards.

The trophy, which “recognises a tenant who has gone the extra mile and demonstrated an innovative approach to helping others,” was handed over at a ceremony in Manchester by BBC News presenter Huw Edwards.

Salma, an active member of MHA’s Tenant Panel, played a pivotal role in helping the association deliver a £470,000 retrofitting project led by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority with UK Government funding. 

For more than 12 years, she has coordinated MHA’s coffee mornings at its Hollings Hub and Anchor Court housing developments.

She has also been heavily involved in outreach projects aimed at encouraging participation in the association’s ever-expanding programme of community activities including digital inclusion training and has persuaded many local people to enrol on courses. 

Salma Khatun receiving her Housing Heroes Tenant of the Year Award from BBC News presenter Huw Edwards

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “Salma is an incredibly worthy winner of this prestigious national award.

“Through the retrofitting project, she helped residents living in older pre-1919 built properties receive free guidance on what installation and improvement measures were suitable for their property.

“This enabled them to potentially benefit financially through greater energy efficiency while playing their own part in reducing local carbon emissions.  It was important for us to reach these residents and Salma played such an important part in enabling us to make this happen so successfully.

“She has long been regarded as a housing hero by MHA tenants, staff and project partners.  We are thrilled that the Housing Heroes Awards judges have now made this official.”    

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “Salma’s dedication to MHA is exceptional. Her voluntary work has had a hugely significant effect on the wellbeing of tenants, promoting social inclusion and community cohesion.

“Her outreach activities have helped to increase community engagement and had a positive impact on the physical and mental health of tenants and the neighbourhoods that surround them.

“She has helped to bridge the digital divide to ensure that everyone has access to the benefits of digital technology, demonstrating her commitment to improving the lives of others, particularly those living in areas of high deprivation.

“Salma is a true and valued asset to the Manningham Housing Association community.” 

Salma Khatun said: “I am so pleased to win the Housing Heroes Tenant of the Year award.

“MHA is a big part of my life and I really enjoy working with lots of talented people who, like me, are committed to making a positive difference in the local community.      

“I want them to share my pride at receiving this award.”

Northern Ireland ban on e-scooters must stay

Lord Rogan has urged the UK Government not to legalise the use of e-scooters on public roads in Northern Ireland.

Speaking in the House of Lords this afternoon, Lord Rogan said: “Unlike in England in Wales, e-scooters are illegal on public roads in Northern Ireland but that has not stopped their use with an e-scooter rider being left in a critical condition last month after colliding with a car in East Belfast.

Lord Rogan

“Further, just last weekend the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service issued a warning after having to attend a spate of e-scooter fires caused by lithium batteries.”

He asked Trade Minister Lord Offord of Garvel: “In the continuing absence of an Executive at Stormont, can I have an assurance that any future legislation brought forward by His Majesty’s Government relating to Northern Ireland does not include the legalisation of e-scooters?”

Responding Lord Offord claimed the use of e-scooters was “not a UK-central issue, this is an international issue,” adding,” we are not alone in dealing with this modern technology.”  

Commenting afterwards, Lord Rogan said: “Whilst I accept that the dangers posed by e-scooters extend beyond the United Kingdom, responsibility for their control within our own borders rests with our own Government. They have a duty to take that responsibility incredibly seriously given the dangers e-scooters pose.” 

New community strategy to improve quality of life and make a difference in Bradford

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has published a new three-year Community Investment Strategy to build on its award-winning work to support neighbourhoods in Bradford district during and since the pandemic.  

The 22-page document, Improving Quality of Life and Making a Difference, follows the completion of an in-depth community consultation process which sought the views of MHA tenants, staff and key partner agencies in Bradford and Keighley.

The previous strategy, which covered the period from 2019-2022, delivered a series of hugely successful community initiatives including Building Bridges Bradford, Let’s Get On, BAME Ladies Smashing Boundaries and Young in Covid.  

More than 4800 local people were actively involved in the projects which collectively attracted over £391,000 in external capital and revenue support funding.

In 2021, MHA triumphed in the Outstanding Approaches to Communications category at the Chartered Institute of Housing’s Northern Awards, with staff praised by the judges “for their incredible work with tenants and residents during the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

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

The new MHA Community Investment Strategy 2023-2025 focuses firmly on shared community priorities identified in the consultation. 

These include reducing health inequality, tackling social deprivation, combating poverty, improving training and employability, addressing fuel poverty, increasing energy efficiency, sustaining tenancies and lessening the impact of welfare reforms, the rising cost of living and soaring energy prices on household budgets.

The document also sets out a three-year action plan to be reviewed annually with new opportunity-driven initiatives being added as appropriate.

Building on success: (left to right) Simi Amini, MHA Community Development Officer; with Sadar Uddin, Community Partnership and Investment Manager; Ulfat Hussain, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations; and Harry Manford, Neighbourhoods Team Leader.

Sadar Uddin, MHA Community Partnership and Investment Manager, said: “The previous Community Investment Strategy achieved so much despite the challenges of Covid-19.  

“With these restrictions gone and with knowledge gained from the consultation exercise, we believe the new strategy will enable MHA to use our internal resources and attract external funding to maximise benefits and improve the quality of life for our residents and communities.”  

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “We are proud to be so much more than a housing provider.  MHA is equally committed to our community investment offer which has been carefully crafted to meet the needs of local people.        

“Our Community Investment Team is renowned for its forward-thinking approach to community development, creating opportunities, housing solutions, learning, health and wellbeing and many other innovative initiatives that improve the quality of life for our residents.

“Through our new Community Investment Strategy, we will strive to be pioneers in devising projects that truly make a positive difference.”

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “The Board was very pleased to be heavily involved in the development and approval of the revamped Community Investment Strategy which encapsulates strategic thinking at its best.

“The many achievements of the previous strategy further enhanced MHA’s reputation for delivering first class community development programmes in Bradford district.

“I believe the new document will become the next chapter in the association’s success story.”  

The MHA Community Investment Strategy 2023-25 is available to read on the association’s website.      

Power in Place: new approaches to addressing regional inequalities

A University of Manchester publication released today presents a series of evidence-led solutions to tackle regional inequalities and boost the levelling up agenda.

Lord Kerslake

The 44-page document begins with a characteristically incisive foreword from Lord Kerslake, former Head of the Home Civil Service.

Power in Place – published by the University's policy engagement unit, Policy@Manchester - incorporates research and recommendations from academics across nine policy areas.

These include strengthening participation in devolved policymaking, boosting young people’s wellbeing, making local environmental policy more inclusive, and supporting charitable organisations through the cost-of-living crisis.

Closing the attainment gap in schools for children living in poverty is another key policy challenge featured in the publication, together with addressing health inequalities in left behind neighbourhoods, placing health and wellbeing at the heart of urban regeneration, encouraging better ‘place-based’ coordination of skills and education opportunities for young people, and mapping spatial differences to make policymaking more effective.

In his foreword, Lord Kerslake acknowledges that last year’s Levelling Up White Paper “gave official recognition by the government to the deep-rooted and long-standing nature of regional inequalities across the UK.”

Power in Place published by The University of Manchester's policy engagement unit, Policy@Manchester

But he says: “Those people who questioned the scale and depth of inequalities have been exposed as modern ‘flat earthers.’”

The crossbench peer argues that “political rhetoric now needs to be translated into policies and programmes of action” which are “still missing.”

He continues: “In part this is because of the complexity of the challenge and the need for change in both our institutional structures and technical capacities. This is highlighted in the diversity of contributions in this Policy@Manchester publication.”

Lord Kerslake writes: “Despite the rhetoric of levelling up places, government policies are still ‘place blind’.”

He adds: “The articles in this report provide evidence-led ideas about how we can improve place-based approaches to tackle inequalities.”

Professor Cecilia Wong, academic co-director of Policy@Manchester, said: “We are excited to publish Power in Place which is a significant contribution to the national debates on levelling up policy as we approach the next General Election.

Professor Cecilia Wong

“The diversity of subject areas addressed in the document underline the remarkable quality and breadth of public policy thinking by academics at the University.

“Policy@Manchester is particularly grateful to Lord Kerslake for writing such an illuminating foreword, based on his many years of experience at the highest levels of local and national government.

“We hope the publication is read widely by policymakers, and the suite of solutions it provides are taken onboard.”    

Power in Place is now available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.  

MP visits pioneering University of Manchester energy research facility

Jo Gideon MP on a tour of The University of Manchester’s High Voltage Lab with Dr Vidyadhar Peesapati (right) and Dr Mads Huuse

Leading parliamentarian Jo Gideon has visited The University of Manchester to find out more about world leading energy research projects taking place at the Manchester Engineering Campus Development.

Ms Gideon met with Professor Mike Barnes, Head of the Power and Energy Division, and Professor Mads Huuse, Professor of Geophysics in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, to discuss the challenges around tackling the stability of national energy supply, the cost of energy and energy production, and decarbonisation as the UK progresses to net zero. 

She was also given a tour of the University’s High Voltage Lab, the biggest electrical infrastructure test and research facility in UK academia, by Dr Vidyadhar Peesapati, Senior Lecturer in High Voltage Engineering.

The Lab collaborates with small businesses, large industry organisations and governments worldwide, sharing its skills, knowledge, and equipment to apply research to real life problems – from creating fairer and greener energy, to accelerating the decarbonisation of electricity networks, and improving the design of high voltage overhead lines to increase transmission capacity.

Ms Gideon, the MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central, is a former Parliamentary Private Secretary of State in the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and serves on the House of Commons public bill committee currently scrutinising the Energy Bill.

Professor Mike Barnes said: “It was a great pleasure to welcome Ms Gideon to the Manchester Engineering Campus Development.

“Our labs collaborate with small businesses, large industry organisations and governments worldwide, sharing our skills, knowledge and equipment to apply research to real life problems.

“Our work is helping to develop pathways to ensure a low carbon energy transition that will also drive jobs, prosperity, resilience and equality. 

“The University is proud to be taking on the challenge of meeting supply and demand, tackling climate change, and delivering answers to the biggest questions facing the future of our planet.

Jo Gideon MP in discussion with (from left to right) Dr Vidyadhar Peesapati, Professor Mike Barnes and Professor Mads Huuse during her visit to The University of Manchester   

“We are also monitoring the passage of the Energy Bill through Parliament and welcomed Ms Gideon’s special insights on this.”

Jo Gideon MP said: “I was pleased to meet with energy experts from The University of Manchester to discuss how their research is catalysing our net zero ambitions. 

“The work being done at the High Voltage Lab demonstrates how we can innovate at pace to meet our 2050 targets and train the next generation of engineers in sustainable and renewable energy supply.

“It is crucial to see the work being done to support decarbonisation first-hand, so we can address the energy challenges ahead. My thanks go to Professors Mike Barnes, Mads Huuse and Dr Vidyadhar Peesapati for this insightful tour.”

Ms Gideon’s visit was arranged by the University's policy engagement unit, Policy@Manchester, which aims to impact lives globally, nationally and locally through influencing and challenging policymakers with robust research-informed evidence and ideas. 

More information at policy.manchester.ac.uk

Over the counter DNA tests pose challenges for egg, sperm and embryo donors, study finds

Wider public access to DNA testing has major consequences for egg, sperm and embryo donor anonymity, new research has concluded.

The ConnecteDNA project, led from The University of Manchester by Dr Lucy Frith with Dr Caroline Redhead, is examining the use of direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTCGT) on egg, sperm and embryo donor-conceived adults, donors, parents and relatives of donor-conceived people.

Its preliminary findings show that “the potential identifiability of donors is just one of a number of significant implications of DTCGT, about which donors and parents by donor conception should be informed.” 

Dr Catherine Redhead

In a joint article published by The University of Manchester’s policy engagement institute, Policy@Manchester, Dr Redhead and Dr Frith argue that “clinics should be legally required to inform donors and recipients of the increased potential for donor identity to be discovered.”  

They write: “The consent process for prospective donors should ensure their full understanding of the potential challenges to anonymity from developing technologies, including genetic testing.”

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), the body that provides regulatory oversight of this area, is currently collating the responses to a national consultation on proposed changes to UK fertility law.

Dr Redhead and Dr Frith warn that legal changes resulting from the HFEA consultation need, as far as possible, to be “future-proof.”  They say: “Other emerging technologies, such as facial kinship verification technologies, are likely to have similar impacts and may have further implications which are as yet unclear.”

And they recommend that any new legislation brought forward by the Government should “facilitate regulatory systems in which those involved, particularly donors and parents, can be contacted in the longer-term.” 

Dr Lucy Frith

The researchers say: “Easy and relatively affordable access to direct-to-consumer genetic testing and relative ‘matching’ services, in combination with information available on social media platforms, means that donors and donor-conceived people may be able to identify each other outside the regulated system, whether this information is sought intentionally or is discovered unexpectedly.  This can happen even if the donor-conceived person is not on any social media platforms and has not used DTCGT.”

This includes the possibility that donor-conceived individuals might inadvertently discover they are donor conceived or that donor siblings may be identified - including a donor’s own children.

In their article, The University of Manchester academics caution that “DTCGT enables genetic connections to be identified without any explanation or access to further information, meaning that connections may be misinterpreted as e.g., evidence of possibly extra-marital sexual relationships.”

And they argue that “prospective donors and intended parents should be informed about the wider implications of DTCGT.” 

Dr Redhead and Dr Frith add: “Particular efforts are required to inform harder-to-reach groups, such as historical donors and their families, and parents of adult donor-conceived children who may not have shared the circumstances of their child’s conception.”

Their article, “ConnecteDNA – the implications of technology on donor conception anonymity,” is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website. 

Council estate demolition motivated by profit, not resident welfare – new research

The demolition of council estates is driven more by profit than the need to provide housing affordability, security and safety for local residents, new research from The University of Manchester has concluded.

In an article published by the University’s sector leading policy engagement institute, Policy@Manchester, Dr Nick Thoburn argues that “demolition brings about social and individual cost, uprooting residents from support networks and jobs, fragmenting communities, and reducing the supply of affordable, safe, and secure housing.”

And he warns that “demolition also has an environmental impact which is hidden behind claims that net zero carbon targets will be achieved through ‘green’ replacement housing.”

But Dr Thoburn adds: “Yet central and local governments, housing associations, and developers still proceed apace with estate demolition and rebuild. The common justification is that residents share the dominant mood and opinion about council estates. However, our research project with residents at East London’s Robin Hood Gardens found this not to be the case.”

Robin Hood Gardens demolition commences in December 2017 – credit Kois Miah

The research established that these residents were “almost entirely absent from the prominent public debate about the estate’s merits, failings and impending demolition.”  Further, they “despaired of the lack of investment in and maintenance of the estate” with the combined neglect and disrepair often becoming “‘managed decline’ where councils leverage long-term disinvestment for demolition.”

Dr Thoburn writes, “At Robin Hood Gardens, residents were aware and critical of this path to demolition, which one resident described to us as the ‘social cleansing’ of their neighbourhood. Their views of the estate’s future were complex, sometimes coloured by the seeming inevitability of demolition that is produced by managed decline. But in the main, residents wanted refurbishment not demolition, in an estate whose architecture and homes were tremendously popular.”

Based on the research findings, two policy solutions are suggested.

Dr Nick Thoburn, The University of Manchester

First, “repair, refurbishment, and retrofit of existing social housing for existing residents should be the gold standard.”  As a result, “demolition should not be the favoured option but the very last resort, an option institutionally disapproved of for its damaging impact on residents, communities, and the environment, and used only when buildings are proven to be structurally unsound.”

Second, Dr Thoburn argues, “residents should be consulted meaningfully and fairly.” He writes, “Since 2018, London local authorities are required to obtain a majority in a formal ballot of residents for any redevelopment proposal involving whole or partial estate demolition, an opportunity refused to residents of Robin Hood Gardens. This is progress, and it should be extended to all parts of the country. But the ballot process is stacked in favour of demolition and must be overhauled.”

Dr Thoburn’s article, “Razing the neighbourhood: consequences and alternatives to council estate demolition,” is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.

Famous Leeds music studios to welcome star guest this weekend as part of free public tours

Embrace drummer Mike Heaton will be the special guest this Sunday (28 May) when Old Chapel Music Studios in Leeds open its doors for the latest round of free public tours.    

The historic venue launched the initiative in November 2022 and will continue to host monthly tours until February 2024.  

Embrace is one of a host of well-known acts from the city to use the facilities in Holbeck, alongside the Kaiser Chiefs, Sisters of Mercy, Red Lorry Yellow Lorry and many others.

Heaton will be present to meet visitors answer questions, pose for pictures and even give personal drum lessons.

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

Embrace first arrived at Old Chapel Studios in the early 1990s and fondly recall their time onsite.

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."

Katie Hayes, Joint CEO of Old Chapel Music CIC, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Mike back to the studios.

“Places on Sunday’s tours are limited but filling up fast. I would encourage music fans to visit our website and book their slot for free.

“I have no doubt that it will be a day to remember.”      

A rehearsal room at Old Chapel Music Studios 

Old Chapel Music CIC - a not for profit community interest company which manages the studios - supports young people, up-and-coming artists and community groups, giving them access to the same facilities as established bands.

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

Baul music set to reach new audiences in Bradford and Keighley

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has secured funds for a project to revive, preserve and promote the writing of Baul music in Bradford and Keighley. 

Originating in Bangladesh and the neighbouring Indian state of West Bengal, Baul music was especially popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

As well as a form of folk music, it is a distinct philosophy of life embedded in music.

The term Baul is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Batul' or 'Baur,' meaning a devotee who could merge with divinity through music.  

Bradford district is home to numerous writers of Baul music, but most of their work has never been published.

The grant support from the Leap Pioneer Programme, Bradford Council Arts, Culture and Heritage Fund and National Lottery Heritage Fund will now enable this to happen.

More than 100 original songs will be promoted in local communities by translating the lyrics into English and incorporating them and the accompanying sheet music into a book due to be launched in Bradford later this year.

Some of the songs will also be performed by professional musicians at a large community event.

Sadar Uddin, MHA Community Partnership and Investment Manager, said: “Baul music writers who live and work in Bradford district class themselves as ordinary people.  At Manningham Housing Association, we see them as talented people who deserve recognition.

“This project will increase greater awareness of Baul music and motivate individuals to learn, write and perform at public events in venues easily accessible by local communities. 

“I have met with several highly qualified Baul song writers who have published some of their works, but there are many others in the communities of Bradford and Keighley who have spent most of their lives writing Baul folk songs which have never been shared publicly.  We want to put that right.”

Sadar Uddin, MHA Community Partnership and Investment Manager (second from left), with local Baul songwriters

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, said: “This is a non-housing added value project with major cultural value.  

“The project will target beneficiaries living in hard-to-reach neighbourhoods which face multiple deprivations and disadvantages.  Almost 99 per cent of the targeted participants are from poor economic or unemployment backgrounds or low-income families. 

“Long term, we would like this project developed into a learning hub for Baul music, creating a vibrant forum for writers and enthusiasts.” 

Barrington Billings, MHA Chair, said: “I congratulate Sadar for his hard work in securing the funds which will allow this exciting new project to fly.

“It will promote Baul music to a wider audience, enabling different communities in Bradford and Keighley to come together.

“MHA likes to do things differently.  We warmly welcome the faith the Leap Pioneer Programme, Bradford Council and National Lottery Heritage Fund have shown in our ability to deliver by providing this support.” 

Leeds women urged to ‘Be Unstoppable’ with launch of free business course

Women aspiring to start up a business in Leeds are being invited to sign up for a free course designed to place them on the path to entrepreneurial success.

Beginning on 22 May and taking place over six successive Mondays for two hours each week, the ‘Be Unstoppable’ programme will provide expert guidance on a series of topics including developing a business idea, deciding on a target audience, devising a marketing strategy and achieving maximum impact from the use of social media.        

Held at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown with support from Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund, the sessions will be led by communications and brand strategist Maria Dakova.

Communications and brand strategist Maria Dakova who will lead the ‘Be Unstoppable’ course at Unity Business Centre

She said: "’Be Unstoppable’ is something I felt drawn to creating for a long time, especially after years of navigating starting and running different businesses.

“It is the manual for a start-up the female way.  A way that doesn't have to cost lots of money and doesn't lead to overwhelm and burnout - a step-by-step guide that eliminates the guesswork.

“With this course, I want to spare other women from feeling lost, not knowing where to start and procrastinating on the action out of fear.

“I want to create a community of women who support each other and grow together while we hold each other's hands each step of the way."

Unity Business Centre is one of three sites operated by Unity Enterprise, the not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, to support entrepreneurial activity in Leeds. 

Richard Aitoro, Unity Enterprise Business Adviser, said: “Maria is a leader in her field with an abundance of experience across many aspects of business life.  She is also a first class communicator who will quickly connect with the women who choose to ‘Be Unstoppable’ by signing up to the course.

“There is a lot of untapped female entrepreneurial talent in Leeds. 

“We are proud to be playing an active and ongoing role in finding and developing it.”   

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Unity has an absolute commitment to driving inclusive growth by enabling local people to set up and grow their own sustainable business.

“We have placed particular emphasis on encouraging more women to become entrepreneurs.

“The launch of ‘Be Unstoppable’ will help us to increase the momentum already generated.”      

More information about ‘Be Unstoppable’ including how to sign up is available from Richard Aitoro on Tel: 07395 328123 or email: Richard.Aitoro@unityha.co.uk

Major award for Leeds Jewish Housing Association in anniversary year

The 70th anniversary celebrations of Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) have received a huge boost after it won the trophy for Supported / Sheltered Housing Scheme of the Year at the Northern Housing Awards 2023.

Jayne Wynick, LJHA Chair, receiving the Northern Housing Award accompanied by the association’s Chief Executive Mark Grandfield (second from left) and Director of Operations Craig Simons (second from right)

The £14 million development at Queenshill Avenue in Moortown is the biggest in the association’s history.

It encompasses two buildings, Cherry Tree House, home to 51 sheltered housing apartments for those aged 55 and over, and Hillside, comprising 34 general needs flats.

They were officially opened in July last year by National Housing Federation Chief Executive Kate Henderson and Lord Mayor of Leeds Cllr Robert W Gettings.

The sheltered apartments are attached to 130 properties in three other buildings to form a sheltered village of 181 apartments for older people with secure access to the Ziff Community Centre.

In their adjudication, the Northern Housing Awards judges described the development as: “A scheme that reflects the close relationship between the provider and its community, showing the benefits of vision and perseverance.

“Their determination to build this scheme has paid off as clearly shown in the testimonials by the residents.  Fantastic work!”

The trophy was presented to senior LJHA representatives at an evening ceremony in Manchester.   

Mark Grandfield, LJHA Chief Executive, said: “70 years ago, LJHA was born out of a desire to support the Leeds Jewish community by providing good quality affordable homes.

“This development sits on the site of the very first homes built in 1953 and reiterates our commitment to another seven decades of supporting the community to come.

“The award is a testament to the years of forethought, great efforts and drive of staff, engaged tenants, designers, contractors and board members. 

“They not only had the initial vision to develop this scheme to complete our sheltered village but ensured the ultimate result fits perfectly in the surrounding neighbourhood, offers great comfort for residents and is visually and architecturally stunning.”

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

Jayne Wynick, LJHA Chair, said: “We are truly delighted to receive this award. 

“It is testament to the hard work of the whole team at Leeds Jewish Housing Association over many years planning, building and now ensuring that all our residents are settled and happy within their homes.

“Many thanks go to Acanthus Architects, Identity Consult and Equans for being our partners in the build.”

Craig Simons, LJHA Director of Operations, said: "I want to pay special tribute to our wonderful residents who were so supportive during the construction phase which had added challenges following the onset of the pandemic.

“It was a long journey getting the project to completion.

“Winning the Northern Housing Award in our 70th year makes the ambitious nature of the project and incredible amount of dedication required to deliver it even more worthwhile.”

Business leaders to share expertise with social enterprises and charities at Leeds summit

Renowned business adviser to social entrepreneurs Karen Leigh Anderson will headline a special summit in Leeds later this month aimed at boosting the profit margins of social enterprises and small charities.

Hosted at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown, she will give a presentation on board recruitment, social enterprise governance and social franchising.

There will also be a wide-ranging Q&A session led by the Realistic Business Consortium, an organisation which offers premium business expertise and advice to organisations that might not have the resources to access such support in the conventional market.     

Additionally, Key Fund, which provides funding options for sustainable community and social enterprises unable to secure support elsewhere, will be in attendance to answer questions about social investment.

Unity Business Centre is one of three sites operated by Unity Enterprise, the not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, to support entrepreneurial activity in Leeds. 

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise Manager, has urged local social enterprises and small charities to sign up for free to attend the summit.  

He said: “Unity is excited to host this networking and clinic session.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive (right), and Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise Manager

“We are grateful to Karen for offering share to share her expertise, particularly in social enterprise governance and constitution as well as social franchising and licensing.

“Representatives of Realistic Business Consortium and Key Fund will also bring a wealth of business knowledge and first-hand experience to share with attendees.”

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Hosting this summit underlines our absolute and ongoing commitment to support enterprise, endeavour and achievement in local communities.

“The level of business expertise on hand is immense and will make a positive impact on those who come along.

“We expect a strong turnout of local social enterprises and small charities for a first class event.”

The summit will take place at Unity Business Centre, Roundhay Road, Leeds on 25 May from 8.30-10.30 am.  

Limited places are available by calling Unity Enterprise on Tel: 0113 2425996.

Learning culture champion sought by Unity

Unity Homes and Enterprise has opened applications for a new part-time position with the task of championing a learning culture and positively impacting how the Leeds-based BME housing association operates.

Reporting to Resources Director Ann Marie Matson, the Human Resources and Organisational Development (HROD) Business Partner will work closely with directors and managers to ensure the skills and capacity of the staffing team meet Unity’s current and emerging needs.

The successful candidate will be a CIPD qualified professional (Level 5+) with experience of overseeing change management projects.

They will also be committed to Unity’s social purpose and possess a clear understanding of how to successfully combine efficiency with an organisation’s wider social and economic objectives.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “The role of HROD Business Partner is key to Unity’s continued progression and presents a wonderful opportunity to join our small and friendly Resources Team.

“We are seeking a determined professional wanting to make a difference and with a passion for achieving outstanding customer outcomes.

“There is an organisational focus on developing an innovative and creative culture driven by our values.  The successful candidate will work with the senior management team to ensure our staff are well informed, customer focussed and committed to tackling inequality in all its forms. 

“We want someone who will support us in delivering Unity’s ambitious corporate plan and a customer experience that raises the bar to a new height.”

Applications close at midnight on 8 May 2023.  

More information about the position, including a recruitment pack, is available on the Unity Homes and Enterprise website.

Manningham Housing Association tenants rewarded after gaining digital qualification

12 Manningham Housing Association (MHA) tenants have completed a Level 1 Digital Inclusion training course covering a range of modules including customer service, digital skills, and health and wellbeing.

The successful candidates gather in MHA’s boardroom in Bradford   

Each successful candidate received a certificate and a brand-new tablet - kindly supplied by Woodspeen Training - at an awards ceremony in MHA’s Bradford head office which hosted the course over several weeks.

Tassawar is one of the 12 tenants who passed the examinations to obtain her qualification.

She said: “I wanted to learn about computers, gain confidence and meet new people along the way.

“I heard about the course after a call from the Community Development Officer at MHA, and it worked out with the hours and days as my children were at school.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it. I made friends, I know more about computers and how to do IT tasks on my own.

"I would recommend to everyone I know to take up such an opportunity. I would love to sign up for the next level.”

Rosemary is another MHA tenant who successfully completed the training.

She said: “I am so grateful to take part in the IT course.

“For me it was a great opportunity to learn with them and they include lots of training which helps me to cope with today’s world.

“I now have experience in how to register in very important areas, such as my GP, applying for jobs and more in this life of technology.

“I am so thankful to the tutor who helped me through difficulties.”

MHA tenants with their tablets supplied by Woodspeen Training after gaining their Level 1 Digital Inclusion qualifications

Sadar Uddin, MHA Community Partnership and Investment Manager, who oversaw the training course, said he was delighted to see the first cohort of tenants receive their certificates and tablets.

He commented: “It was a wonderful occasion with everyone fully deserving their awards.

“The past three years, since the start of the pandemic, have been difficult for everyone.  However, there have also been positives with many people setting themselves new goals including a desire to learn different skills and take on new challenges.

“We are planning to launch further courses in the months ahead to give MHA tenants the chance to access new life opportunities.

“The first 12 graduates of the Level 1 digital inclusion course stand as role models for what can be achieved.”

A Level 1 Digital Inclusion training session underway at MHA

Ulfat Hussain, MHA Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations, presented the successful candidates with their prizes.

He said: “It was a really happy event.

“MHA is more than a housing association.  Investing in the communities we serve in Bradford and Keighley is at the core of everything we do, including seeking to improve life chances through the provision of training opportunities and other support.    

“We know these communities well and understand that so much talent resides there, but it must be nurtured and progressed.

“MHA is committed to working with our partners across Bradford district and beyond to do precisely that.”