Staffs Housing
Keeping your home free of damp and mould
Take a look at our new approach and what you can do to help us prevent damp and mould in your home

Serving our customers and creating great experiences that make you smile are the most exciting part of our job. At Staffs Housing, you and your home matter.
Affordable housing: A home for all.
Whether it's for rent or ownership, Staffs Housing has a home built around you.
Our news
Welcome to the Staffs Housing News hub. Take a look at all of the ways we are working to make sure you all have a house that you're proud to call home.
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Important update about the managed migration affecting people who claim Working Tax Credits, Child Tax Credits, income-related ESA, Income Support, income-based JSA or Housing Benefit.

Resident describes how moving to Rowan Village saves her hundreds of pounds each month and means she can now have a better quality of life.

Staff from across Honeycomb Group visit your home and community to hear your feedback.

This year our housing and compliance teams are working together to replace fire doors across our schemes and communities. It’s just one of the ways we’re committed to making sure you remain safe at home. If you have a fire door in your home or scheme here’s some important information you need to know.

This September our compliance team completed a water works project at a scheme in Stoke thanks to feedback from residents.

The Government is reviewing the current standards that housing providers like us have to follow. They need your feedback to make sure the new standards include the things that matter most to you.

The results are in! Take a look at the winning gardens of 2023.

This 'Starts at Home Day' we celebrate the achievements of our money advice team, who last year secured £1.4m in additional income for residents. It's the third year the service has surpassed the £1m mark, Money Advisor Mick shares why and how the team can help.

If you live in one of our apartment buildings, villages, or schemes you may have heard of a clear door policy. It’s something that’s been introduced to help keep you safe at home and has been recommended by our latest fire risk assessments.

This month travel enthusiast resident shares how he replicated his wife's favourite destination after a health condition prevented the couple from travelling abroad.

This month Housing Officer Vicki stepped in to support a tenant who was struggling with their mental health which was impacting their ability to look after themselves and their home. Vicki shares how she supported the resident with their living situation and wellbeing to help them manage their tenancy for the long term.

This week we've been busy helping a local community to improve their neighbourhood.

This week our independent living village, Bradeley Village is calling on local people to help and support their team of volunteers to run essential services for older people. Can you help?

As part of our ongoing commitment to resident safety, this month we’re raising awareness of gas safety. Compliance Administrator Ruth shares why it's so important to complete an annual gas service.

This month we visited a revamped greenspace called ‘Nutty Nook’ that was created by residents in Meir using little money, and just their time and donations from the community.

This June we're raising awareness of fire safety to help keep you safe at home. We've released chilling footage that shows the devastating effects of a fire and just how quickly it can spread. Fire Compliance Administrator Wendy shares important information that she says could save your life.

This June resident Mal is taking on the Potters ‘Arf with his four comrades to raise money for Stoke-on-Trent veteran’s charity. The challenge is no mean feat as Mal has a below-knee amputation after having his toes crushed on a bus five years ago but is doing it to raise money for a cause that’s close to his heart as he served in the British Military for over 25 years. Read his story.

A local resident has spent more than a decade supporting residents in her community by volunteering to run a lifeline local shop to people over 55. Our Bradeley Village team share their appreciation for her support.

This year we've expanded our compliance team and are investing an additional £1.1m to keep you safe at home. We spoke to Interim Director of Housing, Steve Wilson and Compliance Administrator Deborah Birks who say they're committed to keeping you safe.

This month we spoke to our Compliance Administrator Deborah Birks about the importance of electrical safety in your home. She shares some essential tips to help keep you safe.

Bradeley resident shares what it was like to witness Queen Elizabeth’s coronation 70 years ago.

West End Village couple to celebrate another coronation this May. Excited about the event, they share memories and experiences in preparation.

Resident Trudy donates her time each week to help run the bar that gives residents in the village and in the community a place to socialize and come together. She's now asking her community a very important question, click to find out what it is.

This month we've issued new figures that showcase a local increase in the number of people looking for an affordable home. Housing Manager Laura predicts the increase is due to rising costs and a national increase in private rent. Read what she had to say.

Last week our Property Services Team appealed to their contractors and supporters for donations to help children living in a local domestic abuse refuge.

Last month staff from across Staffs Housing and local councilor Lilian Dodd came together to clean up the streets of the Dresden area to improve the lives of residents.

This week Compliance Surveyor Jenna (pictured above) spoke to us about the importance of asbestos safety, read what she had to say.

See how our gardening team has been providing expert solutions to help keep your home free of damp and mould.

If your home no longer meets your needs, we’re helping to make it easier for residents to find something more suitable with a mutual exchange.

It’s understandable that you might be looking for ways to bring your bills down. With a lot of information around, housing manager Laura Dalton shares helpful guidance on using smart meters at home.

At Staffs Housing we’re now offering free annual safety checks for residents who have stairlifts to keep people safe in their homes.

We've launched a new scheme to prevent anti-social behaviour (ASB), and create happy homes and neighbourhoods in Stoke-on-Trent.

In England and Wales, 5% of adults experienced domestic abuse last year. Using those figures we estimate that more than 150 residents could be experiencing domestic abuse in their homes. It's why we've introduced vital changes to support you if you're experiencing it.

This edition includes a welcome to our new Chief Executive Julie, an update on our repairs service, improvements at Oakwell Court, a change to our contact hours and more!

Last year we took ownership of 100 affordable homes in Meir. Read about how we welcomed the residents with a coffee morning to introduce ourselves and bring the community together.

Year seven students from Haywood Academy in Burslem visited Bradeley Village to read a poem and give out flowers to residents to brighten their days.

We're breaking the norm when it comes to the male-dominated compliance sector. RICs stats show only 12.5% of construction team members and 33% of surveying professionals are female. At Staffs Housing, our new compliance team quash these stats with a 66% female workforce.

We provide over 3,000 homes to local residents across Staffordshire and beyond through affordable rent. Now, as people face increased challenges around home ownership, we’ve increased our offer to help those looking to buy their own home.

Meet Kathryn, Staffs Housing's Head of Compliance. She comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience and has big plans for 2023. Read to find out more.

A resident from Bradeley Village shares how her local community supported her when she lost her husband eight years ago.

This year our Housing Team have visited schemes and villages across our communities to meet and speak to residents over a cup of coffee.

After it’s huge success in 2021, we ran our second gardening competition earlier this year. We invited residents from across our communities to share their green spaces for the chance to win up to £50.

Housing Officer Katie joined us in October after working for over 10 years in the sector. Katie is part of the neighbourhoods team who makes sure residents have a home and community they’re proud to live in. We caught up with Katie to see how she was settling into her new role.

Resident selflessly supports her neighbours by providing meals, heating top ups and presents during the cost of living crisis.

If you've been to our various cafes and restaurants at Bradeley Village, West End Village and Rowan Village you might have seen a new face. Lisa Thursfield joined in September as our new Head Chef we caught up with her to see how she was settling in.

This winter, we're supporting a domestic abuse charity’s campaign to highlight the rise in domestic abuse cases during major football tournaments.

This year we've created 13 quality, affordable homes at the Bellway Cecilly Mills development in Cheadle. Eight homes have been allocated to local people on the council waiting list, with the remaining five offered as shared ownership.

Julie Guildford Smith has been appointed as Chief Executive at Stoke-based Honeycomb Group. Currently Strategic Director of Housing at Birmingham City Council, Julie will step into the new role next month (Monday 5 December 2022); taking over the helm from Diane Thompson who has served the business for over 30 years.

There’s been a lot of information recently about the rising cost of energy and you might be left wondering what does all this mean? Don’t worry we’ve read through all the information, so you don’t have to. Here’s a breakdown.

Jenna* moved into one of our latest developments, Cecilly Mills last month. After a turbulent three years she says her ‘beautiful’ new home will give her a fresh start.

Rowan Village resident Kath is proud to be a volunteer at the on-site shop and recently bought her own t-shirt to celebrate.

A man from Meir has become an advocate for the deaf community and now teaches others British Sign Language after having personal experience of hearing loss.

After the success of last year, we’re bringing the gardening competition back. Residents can now enter online for the chance to win upto £50 for their prize-worthy green spaces.

Two years ago, we built adapted homes at Swallows Nest, Dresden to support children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. One of the families to move in were Poppy, Wayne and their two sons, read their story here.

This summer we're launching our very own community clean up week called The Big Green Summer Clean. It’s a week of action that’s helping to transform local spaces in the communities residents call home.

Volunteer Mal has been invited to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee in style this weekend thanks to an anonymous nomination. It means he’ll be able to attend the Trooping of the Colour as well as an afternoon tea celebration in London.

Our residents have been able to complete free live and learn courses. These course have helped boost CVs, gain college or university spaces, rebuild confidence and discover new hobbies. Here's how resident Jasmine made the most of them and is now looking forward to an exciting career in Environmental Science.

Hard-working resident Tony has been tidying up his community by litter-picking everything from cans to bulky bags of clothes and shoes.
22/04/2022
Catering success - putting the needs of residents first
Over the last twelve months the Catering Team at Staffs Housing have been working hard to make sure what's on offer meets residents’ needs.

This month we’re launching a new wellbeing hub at West End Village. The hub will help residents and the wider community regain confidence and improve their health and wellbeing after the pandemic.
22/03/2022
Update on our repairs service
Like many other housing providers across the country, we’re struggling to repair our customer’s homes in our usual target times. Read our update to find out the best way to report a repair.


Village residents have been busy taking part in weekly falls prevention classes to help them regain strength and avoid falling at home.

Housing Officer Sarah is taking on a huge challenge to run 50 miles to raise money for people affected by their mental health.

Residents joined us at our West End Village coffee morning last week to meet different teams, share feedback and help us improve our services.

Residents and staff at Rowan Village and Lime Tree Court, Meir welcome new hairdresser Pat as she takes over the on-site hairdressers.

Bradeley Village resident Carol moved to the village over five years ago. This Valentine’s Day, she shared how catering staff Elaine and Sylvia went out of their way to make residents feel special.

Running a home can be expensive, especially with rising fuel costs. That’s why our Money Advice Team is here to help you make the most of your money and help with any money or debt worries that you might help.
11/02/2022
Could you benefit from money towards your fuel costs?
Running a home can be expensive, especially with rising fuel costs. That’s why our Money Advice Team is here to help you make the most of your money and help with any money or debt worries that you might help.

After the success of Oliver Lodge we’re pleased to announce that we’re going to be hosting coffee mornings throughout 2022, and we could be coming to your scheme soon!

Resident Bert moved into his home in 1978. Nearly 44 years later, he is still very happy in his Dresden home and recently celebrated his 98th birthday. Here’s his incredible life story and his plans for 2022.
10.01.21
Cutting your energy costs could save money and the planet too.
Energy bills are forecasted to rise by 30% in 2022. More than two million UK households are in arrears with their energy suppliers. Therefore, it's important now more than ever to look at how you can reduce the cost of your gas and electricity to save money.

Karwan, and his wife, moved into their Burslem home in 2018. They didn’t feel safe in the neighbourhood they had been living in and after living with family, wanted a place of their own.

Sisters Molly and Lauren bought their shared ownership home earlier this year after both wanting independence. They were both living at home with their mum, but wanted a place to call their own.

Earlier this year we finished transforming the once derelict Station Hotel Pub in Meir into brand-new affordable homes for the over 55s. The former hotspot for anti-social behaviour is now home to 18 residents who share communal facilities such as café, restaurant and gym at neighbouring Rowan Village. Find out what new resident Elizabeth has to say...
15/12/2021
Update on our repairs service
As we approach the winter break, we wanted to update you on our repairs service.
Unfortunately, as we approach the end of the year, we’ve had an increase in winter-related repairs, ICT issues as well as a shortage of staff and materials. So, like many other housing providers across the country, we’re struggling to repair our customer’s properties in our usual target times.

In March 2020, when the country went into lockdown, those shielding without family nearby struggled to reach essentials like food and medication. Residents at Staffs Housing’s Stirling Close came together to make sure this wasn’t the case for those shielding at their scheme.

Our latest shared ownership development, Cecilly Mills, is due to be completed next summer. The development of two and three homes has proved popular, with only two homes remaining. The homes, that start from just £92,500 for a 50% share, have spacious living areas, fully turfed gardens and private driveways. Take a look at our 7 reasons to move to Cecilly Mills, Cheadle here…

We’re celebrating our green-fingered residents who transformed their outdoor spaces during the pandemic. Residents across our 3,000 homes were invited to enter a gardening competition to find the best plant displays, communal gardens, individual gardens and allotments. This month, Housing Manager Laura Dalton congratulated the six winners and three runners-up including resident Brian who won the ‘nicest garden’ prize.

Single buyer Michelle bought a brand-new home at Saxon Gate, Crewe this summer. She needed a home for herself and daughter Casey to live in after a relationship breakdown. Shared ownership helped Michelle buy a brand new home with a smaller deposit and monthly payments, read her story here.

This international men’s day we’re appreciating Dan our village handyman who brings positive change to his community and workplace. He was nominated by his colleagues for always going above and beyond and helping others where he can.

This Remembrance Day West End Village residents are celebrating the lives of those sadly lost in the last 18 months.

Emma bought her first home with shared ownership in last year at our Saxon Gate development in Crewe. She was able to move from a two-bedroom, first floor flat into a three-bedroom three storey home at Saxon Gate, without breaking the bank. In fact, Emma’s outgoings have stayed the same. What could shared ownership mean for you?

Shared ownership customer Jamie bought a home for himself and his girlfriend at Saxon Gate, Crewe and was amazed at the quality of home he was able to afford... and you can too. Read more to find out how.

Wildflowers help improve resident’s wellbeing and bring back wildlife during the pandemic.

Shared owner Stuart was a first-time buyer who bought one of our phase four homes. Which were a mix of two 3-bed and two 2-bed semi-detached homes. He bought the house for him and his small family after getting tired of renting, read his story.

We're developing family homes in Bentilee to address a city shortage in Stoke-on-Trent

After a traumatic amputation, determined resident Mal will take on the challenge of walking a brutal 13 miles across different terrains at this year’s Potters Arf on Sunday 26 September. With plans to raise money for veterans who have been through a similar journey.

We’ve developed a customer voice document that sets out how you can use your voice as a customer to ensure you’re heard for both your own benefit and for the benefit of all our other customers. We've summarised what we said in that document into easy-to-read digestible chunks click to read more.

We are excited to announce Ian Williams, one of the UK's largest independently owned property services companies, will now provide our responsive repairs and voids contract. After listening to feedback and involving residents in the contractor selection process, we set a quality and cost criteria. Ian Williams scored the highest and were the best for both quality and value for money.

It was heartbreaking closing our much-loved facilities following government guidance, but we’re happy to say we’re now back open! West End Village resident Heather was more than ready to get back in the hairdresser’s chair once restrictions lifted, read her story.

We know it's a bit of a rubbish topic but we need your help. Only 42% of household waste is recycled in the UK. And we want to increase this percentage to stop more natural habitats from becoming landfill sites.

Scams, whether they're online or over the phone, there are plenty out there. We're sharing some quick and simple tips to stop you, your friends and your family from falling victim to scammers.

Bill and his wife have lived at Rowan Village for over nine years and love being surrounded by a community of people. When the Covid-19 pandemic started Bill was forced to shield and everything changed. Bill found it really tough not seeing his family and friends. Luckily he had a passion that could help: photography. Bill discovered photography later in life but it soon became a favourite hobby. When the New Homes and Growth Team began work at Lime Tree Court they hoped Bill could capture the site transformation and create a photo montage of the once derelict site.

A big welcome to Housing Manager Laura who joined us in October 2020. Laura brings a huge variety of experience and knowledge having worked in community development, specialised homes for over 50s, anti social behaviour teams and lots more. Laura also brings a passion for making a real difference to residents and is excited to share our brand new community fund project. Read on to find out more.

Last year we built 10 bungalows on the derelict Swallows Nest pub in Newstead. Two of these bungalows were specially designed for families supported by the Donna Louise Trust. Emma and daughters Violet and Ivy; who has hypoplastic left heart syndrome (or a special heart as Ivy calls it) moved in last April. They had been living in a home that no longer met their needs and after a separation, Emma was living in her friends spare room with Violet and Ivy.
18/06/2021
Loneliness awareness week: how village living helped customer John feel less alone
Since the pandemic began in 2020, more people have been affected by loneliness. It's been particularly tough on those people who’ve lost a loved one. Like customer John, who moved to the Rowan Village after his wife sadly passed away. He now doesn't feel so alone, read his story.

We wanted to celebrate all of our amazing volunteers by sharing some of their stories. We spoke to volunteers from Bradeley Village who gladly offer up their spare time to help out and here's what they had to say

This mental health week we spoke to resident Ivy. She told us all about how the communal gardens have been her saviour throughout lockdown and after losing her husband to COVID-19.

We’ve created a £2,000 community fund to ensure we're investing in the things our customers care about.

We've built affordable homes for over 55s, bringing life back into once derelict site

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we spoke to Jo Andrew our Asset and Compliance Manager. She tells us all about her 31-year career at Staffs Housing, how she challenges gender stereotypes in her career and advice for any woman looking to start their career.
09/02/2021
Apprentice chef to Royal engagements at the Savoy
This apprenticeship week we’re celebrating by sharing Catering Manager Brian Watt’s extensive career story that started as an apprenticeship over 40 years ago.
04/02/2021
Celebrating time to talk day with our customer service team
This #TimeToTalk day we're celebrating the amazing work of our customer service team who have been getting in touch with customers to make sure they're okay and coping with pandemic

10 reasons to live at Saxon Gate, Crewe

Residents at a Stoke-on-Trent retirement village have been getting ‘crafty’ making and selling items for local charities during the COVID-19 pandemic and countrywide lockdown.

A new food delivery service of residents at West End, Bradeley and Rowan villages has been set up during lockdown.

New wildflowers areas have been created at two Staffs Housing schemes to help boost the local wildlife.

Local, leading housing provider Staffs Housing has begun work to transform the former Goldenhill Working Men’s Club site into much needed affordable homes.

Social housing has never been more important than it is now, especially in cities like Stoke-on-Trent where people on average incomes can’t afford mortgages and some who claim benefits find themselves refused by the private rented sector.

An appeal has been launched to raise awareness of loan sharks to stop them taking advantage of people’s hardships during the COVID-19 outbreak.

This Apprenticeship Week, we're sharing the stories of our apprentices. Dan Kemp started as an apprentice in 2000 and this year he's celebrating 10 years of working with us.

Over the next month, we’re celebrating all our volunteers across Honeycomb Group. This week the spotlight is on our volunteers at Staffs Housing and Viv who helps out at Bradeley Village.

Staffs Housing has developed two adapted bungalows to help support children with life-limiting illnesses and their families, whose homes are no longer suitable for their needs.

This week is Big Energy Saving Week, is a national campaign to help people cut their energy bills and get all the financial support they are entitled to.

We’re proud to be a member of ‘Homes for Cathy’ - a national alliance of housing associations charities dedicated to help end homelessness.

The campaign is calling for housing associations to work alongside local MPs to make sure social housing is a priority at the next general election.

Building work has started at the former Station Hotel in Meir to create 18 new apartments for over 55s, just across the road from Rowan Village.

After 12 months of asking lots of questions to our customers, partners and staff we are making a change.

Today is starts at home day, a campaign to celebrate supported housing and the positive impact it has on thousands of lives. It’s making sure that people who need extra support will always have a safe home that meets their needs.