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Working with local authoritiesOne of the major challenges facing Trident is to find more cost-effective ways of developing housing and services. One response to this challenge has been the Zenith Development Partnership, established jointly with Mercian Housing Association. The result is a greater degree of flexibility and efficiency for both Associations in the development of new housing for local authorities. Another approach to efficiency was the Association's early registration with the Construction Clients' Charter. The Charter encourages a new approach to longer term agreements between housing associations and the construction industry and that will lead to greater cost effectiveness for clients and suppliers. |
Of course, all development work is not restricted to new building. Places for Living is an initiative that promotes the re-use of good quality existing buildings and has the full support of the Association. Adaptability and sensitivity are the key words here. The existing building must have the potential to serve the needs of the client group for which it is intended and cultural implications must be at the forefront of the planned conversion. Consultations with care group professionals and community leaders can have a very positive effect on the success of these projects.
This degree of strategic thinking is vital to the success of Trident in the next decade and beyond. It is, however, just a large-scale version of something that most sensible people have known for a long time. Two heads are better than one. It could be your co-worker, your carer or maybe your neighbour. Whoever it is, everyone gains when you work together.
Further evidence of a successful working partnership, can be found in the Supporting People programme developed by DETR, which transfers responsibility for the commissioning and funding of support services to local authorities. This enables the Association to provide a substantially improved service, with support provided and paid for independent of the housing benefit system. Older people form the majority of those who benefit from this new partnership, but not exclusively. Support for those with learning difficulties, mental health problems or some disabilities will also improve. Also Supporting People is not limited to those with health problems. Victims of domestic violence and young homeless people, who have no previous experience of a tenancy, are also included in the programme. This provides Trident with a great opportunity to develop its ability to provide support where it is most needed.
