National Gardening Week is coming up from 27 April to 3 May 2026

We know that many of our residents enjoy spending time in the garden. Whether it’s planting flowers, growing vegetables or simply enjoying the fresh air, our communal gardens are an important part of life across our schemes.

We also love seeing how you help make these spaces look so welcoming and colourful.

To celebrate, we would love you to share your photos with us. This could be pictures of your garden, or you and other residents enjoying time outdoors together.

We may feature some of your photos on our social media channels, with your permission.

If you would like to take part, please email your photos to: communications@housing21.org.uk

Let’s celebrate the great work you do to keep our gardens looking their best! 

For those who celebrate Easter or just like all the chocolate we wish you a lovely time over the Easter period.

We hope you enjoy the celebrations taking place across our schemes, whether that’s spending time with others, joining in activities, or simply enjoying the Spring season.

If your scheme is hosting an Easter event, we would love to see what you have been up to. You can send us your photos, and with your permission, we may share them on our social media channels.

Please email your pictures to communications@housing21.org.uk. 

The new year for the Housing Associations’ Charitable Trust (HACT) has now started, and this fund may be able to support some residents with their energy costs.

If you have a prepayment gas or electricity meter, you could be eligible for a PayPoint energy voucher of up to £49. This is available where you are responsible for topping up your meter.

If you think this may apply to you, please speak to your local manager. They will be able to let you know if you are eligible and support you with the next steps.

Each month, we’re highlighting the different benefits, grants and support that some of our residents may be entitled to.

Every year, billions of pounds in benefits go unclaimed. Many people think you need to be on a low income or not own your home to qualify, but this is not always the case.

Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP)

DHP is financial support to help with rent or housing costs.

You may be able to apply if you already receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit and need extra help.

Applications are made through your local council. If you would like support, please speak to your local manager or visit the GOV.UK website to find out more.

Help with energy costs

The British Gas Energy Trust offers grants to help with energy debt.

There are two funds available. The Energy Support Fund is for British Gas customers. The Individuals and Families Fund is for people with other energy suppliers.

Some suppliers, including Eon, Eon Next, EDF, Scottish Power and Octopus, have their own support funds. If you are with one of these, you can contact them directly.

Each fund has its own criteria, so it is best to check online or ask for support if you are unsure.

If you think you may be eligible for any of this support, it is worth taking a look on their website: www.britishgasenergytrust.org.uk

If you’re unsure whether you might qualify for support, please speak to your local manager.

We have plenty more information and resources to support you on our website: https://www.housing21.org.uk/residents/living-with-us/financial-support/  

Our Care Survey is still open for residents receiving care from Housing 21, and we would really like to hear from you.

Each year, we ask residents to share their feedback. This helps us understand what is working well and where we can improve.

The survey closes on 13 April 2026.

If you are an Extra Care resident receiving care from Housing 21, you should have received a survey pack from your local manager. This includes a letter, a paper questionnaire and a freepost envelope.

The letter in your pack also includes a QR code and web link if you prefer to respond online. This is quick, easy and goes straight to our research partner, Acuity.

If you would rather use paper, simply complete the form and return it in the prepaid envelope. You can post it in any Royal Mail post box or give it to your scheme manager to send for you.

If you have not received your pack, please speak to your local manager.

Please note, this survey is only for residents receiving care provided by Housing 21.

Did you know we publish our complaints reports on our website?

Our latest report covers Quarter Two (July 2025 to September 2025), and the next report will be available in April 2026.

We’re committed to making sure residents’ voices are heard. This includes listening to feedback in different ways, such as resident meetings and our national Residents’ and Care survey.

It also includes how we handle complaints.

By sharing our complaints reports, we aim to be open about what we are doing well and where we can improve. Your feedback helps us learn and make positive changes across our services.

If you would like to read the latest report, you can visit our website or ask your local manager for support.

Read our latest report here.

In April 2026 residents who claim Universal Credit will be sent a 'Confirm Your Housing Costs' form to complete. The following will guide you through how to complete it. 

If your rent is charged monthly, the change happens on 1 April 2026. 

You will be asked to confirm your rent charges (this does not include service charges, or other charges). This is highlighted in orange in the table at the bottom of the article.  

If your rent is charged weekly, fortnightly, or 4-weekly, the change happens on 6 April. 

You’ll be asked to confirm your service charges. This does not include meal costs, utility, or support charges. This is highlighted in blue in the table at the bottom of the article. 

Please see the table below for details of charges: 

If you have any concerns or need support completing this form, please speak to your local manager.

April is National Pet Month, a UK‑wide celebration recognising the joy, companionship, and wellbeing that pets bring into our lives. It’s supported by animal charities, veterinary groups, and pet‑care organisations, all highlighting the positive impact animals have on people.

At Housing 21, we know how important pets are. That’s why we are proud to be a pet‑friendly organisation, allowing many residents to keep their much-loved companions when they move into one of our schemes.

In 2025, the RSPCA recognised our commitment to animal welfare with a Silver PawPrints Award in the Housing category. This award celebrates housing initiatives that support pets and the people who care for them, creating environments where everyone can thrive together.

Pets bring more than companionship. Studies show they improve emotional and social wellbeing, help reduce loneliness, and may even slow cognitive decline in older adults. They provide routine, comfort, and connection, protective factors that are especially important in retirement and supported living communities.

National Pet Month is a great time to celebrate the benefits pets bring to our lives, and to share in the joy they give every day.

St George’s Day takes place on 23 April, and it’s a great chance to come together and celebrate. 

If your scheme is planning an activity or event, we would love to hear about it. You might be decorating the scheme, hosting a get-together, or simply marking the day in your own way. 

Please share your photos with us at communications@housing21.org.uk, and we may feature them on our social media channels, with your permission. 

Residents at Duke Bernard Court in Eastbourne recently took part in an air fryer cooking session. 

They learned how to make cheese and fruit scones, enjoying both the cooking and the chance to try something new. The session was funded through a Lottery grant secured by the Local Housing Manager. 

It was a great way to spend time together and share a tasty treat.

Do you have a question? 

We love sharing what residents are getting up to across our schemes on our website and social media channels. From creative projects to social activities, these stories show just how lively and welcoming our communities are. 

Here are a couple of recent highlights...

Maureen’s handmade donations: