Social responsibility is no longer a buzzword that businesses can ignore or take for granted. The rise of social media and our “always on and always listening” culture means all organisations, whether they like it or not, play a vital role in cultivating positive change within their own communities and beyond.
Social value, a concept that goes beyond the idea of profits and brand value to encompass the broader benefits an organisation provides to society, is now a metric we should all be paying attention to. Nowhere is this truer than for housing associations that deal with some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
Of course, there is an inherent social value in any housing association. It is, after all, providing a necessary service for the community and for people who might otherwise be left to fall through society’s cracks. There are, however, more things all housing associations could be doing to maximise their social value in a manner that feels natural and scalable.
1. Follow the UK Housing Data Standards by HACT
The UK Housing Data Standards developed by HACT provide a structured framework for data collection, management, and reporting, allowing housing associations to gain deeper insights into their impact on the community. Adhering to HACT means, amongst other things, the collection of more consistent and accurate data, which leads to better-informed decision-making and more transparent reports. All of this, together, leads to a greater social value.
2. Engage with the Community
By actively involving tenants and residents in decision-making processes, housing associations can ensure that their initiatives align with wider community needs. This approach not only improves the general relevance of their services but also promotes a sense of ownership and pride within the community. Make them feel like they are helping, rather than hindering, those around them and it’ll make a great difference to the mental well-being of residents too.
3. Invest in Sustainable Practices
Embracing sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also contributes to social value. Housing associations can reduce their carbon footprint by implementing energy-efficient technologies, promoting recycling, and creating green spaces within their properties. These initiatives enhance the quality of life for residents while also demonstrating a commitment to a sustainable future and setting a precedent for others to follow.
4. Educate and Develop Skills
Providing access to educational opportunities and skill development programs can be a transformative way to boost social value. Housing associations can offer workshops, training sessions, and resources that empower residents to improve their employability, financial literacy, and overall well-being. These initiatives not only create immediate positive outcomes but also have a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families.
5. Try the ECCO Solution
For the millions of people in the UK in supported accommodation, the digital world offers immense potential to enhance operations and tenant experience in a way that provides inherent social value. With a strategic approach, the right tools, and a focus on security, even smaller providers can reap the benefits of digital transformation, ensuring they remain competitive and efficient in an increasingly digital world.
ECCO has built a digital management software package designed specifically for the supported housing sector that is engineered to make life better for the millions of people in the UK in shared living facilities. It’s a smart, approachable, and flexible system that brings all data points together into a cohesive package and allows staff more free time to focus on what really matters – the people.
Contact us today and our team will get you sorted with a free ECCO demo and explore exactly what the software can offer your enterprise.