A new era for 18,000 social housing tenants got underway this month, as three landlords in Housing Plus Group — South Staffordshire Housing Association, Severnside Housing and Stafford and Rural Homes — joined together to become Homes Plus.
The launch of Homes Plus was celebrated with the unveiling of a new look for repairs and maintenance vehicles, including some limited edition versions featuring artwork specially created by Jon Stiff, who is Director of maintenance and commercial services at Housing Plus Group and a successful artist.
Jon, who has transformed his house into an art gallery, has produced an eye-catching abstract design in the new Homes Plus colours of blue and pink. The boldly painted vehicles have already been spotted on the area’s roads, on their way to improve and repair local homes.
“It’s a great opportunity to put art on the road,” said Jon. “The Homes Plus colours inspired me to create something vivid. I like to get a sense of movement on my canvas and this time, the canvas is the size of a van, which is absolutely immense! I hope people enjoy looking-out for them in the coming weeks.”
The creation of a single landlord took place after consultation with customers, earlier this year.
Chief Executive Sarah Boden said: “The new name for our landlord service makes it clear that the provision of safe and well-maintained homes is what defines us as a values-driven organisation. Homes Plus is also a reminder of our drive to do more, providing essential ‘plus’ services like employment and money advice as well as support and investment for our communities.”
Homes Plus will create high quality employment and apprenticeship opportunities for local people and will support grass roots community projects and volunteering through its sponsorship fund.
“The things that matter most to customers will stay the same,” said Sarah. “Rents and tenancies will not be affected, and services will continue to be delivered locally in Staffordshire and Shropshire. Our vision to make a positive difference to homes, lives and communities is just as important and our values are unchanged.”
Header image shows Jon Stiff pictured alongside one of the limited-edition Homes Plus vehicles featuring his artwork.
