Residents and employees have come together to celebrate local accredited contractors who have gone the extra mile as part of Housing 21’s Outstanding Contractor 2026 initiative, which received 406 nominations.
The initiative encourages nominations for accredited contractors who have gone above and beyond in delivering exceptional maintenance, day-to-day running, and support services that contribute to the wellbeing and high-quality standards of resident's homes. This initiative plays a vital role in gathering resident feedback and reaffirming Housing 21’s dedication to delivering safe, quality and affordable housing, supported by local services.
One of the nominations from a resident at Retirement Living scheme, Dening Court on behalf of their local contractor, stated: “He can turn his hand to most things and knows both the scheme and residents very well, always thorough and polite, is trusted by the residents, who are all comfortable to have him working in their homes.
“He has turned up many a time outside of working hours for emergencies and will always make safe and reassure residents if needed.’”
Nominated contractors receive a certificate for each nomination recognising their outstanding contributions. These certificates serve as a token of appreciation for their commitment to ensuring that the schemes continue to run smoothly and that residents are provided with high-quality homes.
Gill Brown, Head of Procurement at Housing 21, said: “We are very proud of our local devolved repairs model ensuing our residents are at the heart of local decision making and that 92% of our contractor pool are small and medium enterprises (SME’s).
“This initiative is designed not only to highlight the crucial role local accredited contractors play in maintaining the schemes but also to encourage a sense of community. It has received an enthusiastic response from contractors, and residents and employees at each scheme, ensuring residents play a key part in these local contract awards.”
This year brought 70 additional nominations, building on last year’s rise and highlighting the essential contribution contractors make to the schemes and the wider community. The initiative was warmly welcomed by contractors, and Housing 21 residents and employees, strengthening relationships across its 650 Extra Care and Retirement Living schemes.