Hanover Scotland, a pivotal player in the Scottish housing sector and one of the nation’s leading registered social landlords (RSL), has announced a strategic shift to concentrate exclusively on its core mission of providing essential social housing across Scotland.
With a portfolio exceeding 4,500 homes spread over more than 24 council districts, primarily serving the older demographic, Hanover Scotland’s decision underscores a commitment to enhancing the quality and availability of social housing.
Hanover Scotland will discontinue offering property factoring services as part of this focused strategy, affecting 34 privately-owned developments.
This decision impacts nearly 1,200 homes, and the association has proactively reached out to the residents and landlords involved, offering ample notice to secure new factoring services by September 27, 2024.
Residents (Credits: Hanover Scotland)
Angela Currie, Chief Executive of Hanover Scotland, expressed the weight of the decision, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to directing resources and efforts towards enriching its principal social housing offerings.
Recognizing the challenges this transition may pose to the communities involved, Hanover Scotland is committed to facilitating a seamless transition and providing extensive communication and consultation opportunities in person and online.
The decision aligns with Hanover’s 2022-2027 Corporate Strategy, reflecting insights gained from a thorough review of its non-social landlord activities spanning several years.
This refocused approach is poised to bolster Hanover Scotland’s robust housing operations. It aims to build on its achievement of having 89.9% of its homes meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard—more importantly, surpassing the national average of 79%.
Founded in 1963 as the Hanover Housing Association, the organization has been at the forefront of innovative housing solutions in Scotland, including pioneering the first sheltered accommodation developments for a housing association.
Building in Scotland (Credits: Scottish Housing News)
Undergoing various evolutions, it formally became Hanover Scotland in 1979. It has become a leading RSL committed to serving older residents from the Highlands to the Scottish Borders.
While transitioning away from property factoring, Hanover Scotland reassures its customers of its dedication to easing the process, although it cannot endorse specific new providers.
The organization also ensures that its factoring team members receive comprehensive support during this period and explores opportunities for internal redeployment within its broader operations.
As Hanover Scotland embarks on this strategic pivot, it remains steadfast in its mission to enhance social housing in Scotland, reinforcing its legacy of community service and housing excellence.
