Social housing funding problems continue in 2021
2020 was certainly full of challenges, with the Covid-19 pandemic hitting us all broadside at the same time as further obligations were placed on the social housing sector in the wake of Grenfell in an attempt to raise standards and ensure that every voice is heard.
A pity then that the Government has so far resisted calls to increase the levels of funding needed significantly, both to build more social housing and to bring older properties up to current standards. Worryingly, it is coming to light that housebuilding targets are set to be missed by almost a decade, with much of the blame attributed to the coronavirus lockdowns.
The pandemic has also shone a harsh light on increasing social discrepancies in the sector with a predicted 3.8m people currently on the social housing waiting list and many more locked down in unsafe and neglected homes. After decades of underinvestment, I would maintain that the Government must step up to the plate to ensure that every home meets the highest standards of safety and energy efficiency. Every person has the right to home that is safe and secure and investment is vital to achieve this.
Thank you from metroSTOR
Whether or not this commitment and investment materialises, the team here at metroSTOR would like to extend our sincere thanks to all in the housing sector for their dedication and hard work particularly in these challenging times! We are here to support throughout 2021 in every way we can, helping you continue to provide safe and secure homes.
On a Personal note, I truly believe that social housing is essential for the social and economic wellbeing of the nation, as thousands of families depend on it for shelter and security. It is vital that government investment continues to progress despite the very real challenges brought about by the pandemic.
We are here to support you
As the construction and manufacturing industries remain open during this third national lockdown, we would like to reassure you that our operations are continuing in accordance with all current COVID-19 guidelines to keep our colleagues and customers safe on site and in the workplace.
Please reach out if you are looking for proven solutions to fly-tipping around bin stores, or have any urgent FRA actions involving bins, bikes or mobility scooters. Our team of specialist consultants are here to support you in maintaining safe homes and neighbourhoods, with initial much of the initial fact finding and site specific consultations being progressed via video conferencing.
New for 2021
We are in the process of launching a series of training webinars over the coming weeks, covering day to day issues in housing such as the safe storage and charging of mobility scooters, methods for calculating bin safety distances from dwellings and the planning waste and recycling hubs that minimise side waste, encourage recycling and enhance neighbourhoods. Further details will be available on our websites shortly and we look forward to the valuable discussions that will result!
Lastly, I am really looking forward to the launch of our new Streetspace Group website in the coming weeks. The website will bring together our Streetspace and metroSTOR brands for a seamless experience, introducing many new products and enabling us to better serve our customers. Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates.
Nigel Deacon
National Account Director
