Television spotlight falls on housing associations at critical time for staff and tenants

Published by Jon Land for 24dash.com in Housing

The television spotlight shines on the important work of housing officers next week as a popular BBC One documentary featuring the work of housing associations returns to our screens.

'Neighbourhood Watched', which follows frontline staff at Greater Manchester landlords City West Housing Trust (Salford) and New Charter Homes (Ashton-under-Lyne), is back for a third series from next Thursday, August 16.

Filmed between September 2011 and June 2012 by independent production company Raw Television, the series follows housing officers as they work on the day-to-day and unusual tasks facing social housing providers.

Previous programmes attracted up to 2.5m viewers, encouraging the BBC to recommission. Retaining the Thursday late evening slot, this series has been extended to six episodes.

There is topicality with issues such as overcrowding, underoccupation and the problems caused by hoarding. Family troubles and noisy neighbours test the patience of residents and staff. There is also an unlikely parking problem to resolve, and a trespasser gives one housing officer the runaround.

Stories are told from residents' perspectives as well as by the staff.

New Charter Homes has taken part in all three series. Executive director of neighbourhoods Tony Powell said: “There are significant pressures on social housing now, and plenty of changes to come.

"The shortage of homes nationally coupled with high house prices and rising private sector rents mean more people are looking for good quality accommodation at a fair price.

“So it's more important than ever the public understand what good housing providers are doing and what they can add to neighbourhoods. Housing is about people, not buildings; I'm sure these documentaries show the human side of both challenges and successes."

For David Cummins, director of communities and neighbourhoods at City West Housing Trust, this was an ideal opportunity to showcase the valuable work his staff do every day.

He explained: "City West staff are hardworking and committed to going the extra mile for our customers, which I think really shines through in the programme.

“We participated in the programme to highlight some of the challenges and opportunities that there are in social housing today. I hope viewers will be informed as well as entertained.”

Executive producer for Raw Television, Lucy Willis said: "We know 'Neighbourhood Watched' has been popular with viewers and those working in housing, and were delighted to be commissioned to make this extended series.

"Our observational documentary techniques capture stories from several viewpoints, and we are careful not to be judgmental. It's been rewarding to work with City West and New Charter, who gave us access to everything they do."

The programme will be shown every Thursday evening on BBC One at 10.35pm.