Executive summary

We’re pleased to share this report which focuses on our progress across the 12 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) themes outlined within the Sustainability Reporting Standard for Social Housing (SRS). Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), these themes cover 48 ESG criteria, including zero carbon targets, affordability and safety standards. During the 2022/23 financial year, we’ve continued to provide a range of affordable housing across our areas of operation in the Midlands and East of England, building 578 new homes with 83.7 percent of these being affordable rent or low-cost home ownership properties. We’re delighted with the progress we’ve made in the last 12 months and our successful application for the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund programme will enable us to do even more. Access to this funding will mean that we can improve around 600 of our existing homes, helping to reduce carbon emissions and running costs for our customers. We’ve also seen significant improvement in our Building for Life commitments with 96 percent of homes now reaching minimum standards across these areas. The safety of our customers remains paramount, and this is underlined by our safety and risk compliance remaining extremely close to 100 percent. We’ve also continued to provide additional support and services to help our customers to sustain their tenancies by enhancing their economic resilience and boosting their health and wellbeing. While the progress made has been pleasing, we remain focused on our environmental responsibilities and fiercely committed to improving the lives of our customers and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the neighbourhoods and communities we serve.