Solihull Community Housing

Scheme: Refurbishment of 8,100 homes

Client: Solihull Community Housing

Description: At Frank Haslam Milan we specialise in delivering innovative solutions for the refurbishment & construction of public sector housing. We are currently working in partnership with Solihull Community Housing to deliver their Decent Homes Programme.
The contract is valued at approximately £64 million over eight years & covers the refurbishment of 8,100 Council-owned homes to the Decent Homes Standard & associated regeneration works. The extensive programme of works includes full kitchen & bathroom replacements, full central heating replacements, full re-wires & subsequent plastering & decorating. On average we are handing over a rate of around 30 homes a week.

A major avenue for employment & training opportunities on this scheme was created through Pathways Training Facility, the aim of which is to engage those in the local community seeking an opportunity to enter the Construction Industry & target long term unemployed & Intermediate Labour Market. Referrals are taken from the Job Centre Plus & Construction Employment Alliance for suitable candidates to undergo an intensive 12 week training programme including - plastering, painting, decorating & plumbing. The Partnership endeavours to place all successful candidates in full time employment. Many are now in full time permanent employment & working towards NVQ Level 2 in their chosen trade.

As a partnership we are particularly proud that we have been able to have such an impact on the lives of the people who live in Solihull. Not only have we been able to refurbish their homes to a modern standard but we have also been able to create training & employment opportunities for young people who want a career in the construction industry.

Value: £64 million over eight years