YHN commended but is aiming for excellence

Sep 1 2010 The Journal

A LEADING North East housing association has been commended for its diversity policies.

Your Homes Newcastle (YHN) was assessed by officials from the Improvement Development Agency (IDeA) in a Diversity Peer Challenge and the social housing provider was awarded the level two ‘achieving’ status of the Equality Framework for Local Government.

The officials made their assessment after spending two days at YHN conducting focus groups and interviews with stakeholders, partners, staff and board members.

The organisation, which employs more than 800 staff in the region, was praised for several aspects of its equalities and diversity agenda.

In particular, the assessors said they were impressed by the proactive approach taken by board members.

YHN chief executive John Lee said it was the latest accolade the organisation had received in recognition of its commitment to equal opportunities.

“The board members have tried to lead from example but this success has only been achieved by all of our staff working together in harmony,” he said.

“The accreditation is another milestone in YHN’s development but, of course, there is always room for improvement.

“One of our key priorities for the next 12 months is to increase the number of people in our workforce from the BME community, create further opportunities for women to access senior management positions and hire more people with disabilities.

“We are far better placed to serve our customers by having an accredited equalities and diversity agenda and our focus is now on working to secure level three ‘excellence’ status.”