Accent Housing’s Independent Living Group has successfully secured £120,000 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through the government’s Social Housing Innovation Fund.
The bid for funding was written by members of Accent’s Independent Living Group, supporting a customer-led project to strengthen community engagement.
The funding, awarded to just 20 organisations from 183 bids, will enable Accent to install digital screens in its independent living communities nationwide. The screens will provide Accent customers with real-time updates on local events, community activities, housing information and services, while also creating new opportunities for customers to share feedback and shape their communities.
The successful bid was led by Accent customers Lyn Nelson, from Camberley and Chris Lynn, from Peterborough, whose idea was developed in partnership with the organisation. They presented the proposal directly to Accent’s Board and Executive team, demonstrating the power of customer-led innovation benefitting the wider community.
Chris Lynn, said: "This project, titled ‘Beginning Belongs’, is about making sure everyone feels informed, included and connected. These screens will make a real difference to how we communicate and engage as communities."
Lyn Nelson added: "We wanted something practical that would bring people together and make information accessible to all. It’s fantastic to see this idea become a reality and I am proud to have worked on the bid alongside Chris and with Accent’s encouragement and support."
Accent’s independent living schemes are purpose-built or adapted developments that accommodate the needs of older customers (over 55s). The independent living schemes provide the freedom and independence of your own home alongside benefits like 24-hour security, accessibility adaptations, and regular activities, plus great communal spaces where customers can meet, relax and socialise.
Tanya Scott, Assistant Director of Housing Services and Safeguarding lead at Accent, said:
"We are incredibly proud that this customer-led idea has been recognised at a national level. This funding allows us to invest directly in our communities, improving communication and ensuring our customers have a stronger voice in shaping the services they receive."
The Social Housing Innovation Fund, delivered by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, supports projects that enhance tenant engagement and strengthen resident influence in social housing.
Installation of the digital screens is expected to begin in the coming months.