TV Spotlight to Benefit Housing

Published by New Charter for New Charter Housing Trust Group in Housing and also in Communities

A popular BBC One documentary featuring the work of housing associations is returning for a second series.

“Neighbourhood Watched” is a series of four 45-minute programmes showing the work of housing officers from north-west landlords New Charter Homes (Ashton-under-Lyne), Aksa (Oldham), Housing Pendle and First Choice Homes Oldham.

Filmed during 2010 by independent production company Raw Television, the series follows staff as they work on the commonplace and unusual tasks facing social housing providers. Each episode of the first series (originally shown in August 2009) attracted over 2.3m viewers, encouraging the BBC to commission a second series.

There's topicality with issues such as overcrowding, downsizing and making the best use of the social rented housing stock.  Family tensions surface, and pets of several varieties test the patience of neighbours and staff.

Stories are told from residents' perspectives as well as by the staff.  Most reach a conclusion as filming took place over eight months.

New Charter’s Group Chief Executive Ian Munro said: “There's an overall shortage of accommodation, but no shortage of stories to tell.  The economic pressures on most public bodies, housing benefit changes and fundamental changes proposed for new tenants combine to make this a significant time for housing.  It's more important than ever the public understand what good housing providers are doing and what they can add to neighbourhoods.

"The skill and feeling that the filmmakers invested in the series capture the commitment and dedication of staff working in housing. Some may think television is a risky medium to show our services, but I'm confident viewers will be informed as well as entertained.”

Executive Producer for Raw Television, Lucy Willis said: “The last series of “Neighbourhood Watched” was not only popular with viewers.  Those working in housing confirmed the observational documentary techniques we use gave an accurate picture of the pressures and opportunities on modern day social housing.   We've been delighted to be welcomed back to make a second series, and I can promise some thought-provoking and emotive television.”

Each programme in the series is self-contained. The first programme is broadcast on BBC One on Tuesday March 1st at 10.35pm.