From homelessness to housing hotshot: A Social Housing success story

After a turbulent time in her personal life led to a period of homelessness, in 2016 Raz was allocated social housing by Watford Community Housing. Today she’s a valued board member with a Level 3 certificate in housing practice and is pursuing a career helping those in a similar situation. This is her story.

So, Raz, how did you first encounter Watford Community Housing? Could you tell us a little about your situation at the time?

I became a Watford Community Housing tenant in February 2016 following a rather difficult time in my personal life which had led me to homelessness. 

Having previously never needed Social Housing and with no prior knowledge of the application process I was completely clueless to the challenges I’d face and the length of time it would take to finally be offered a home. Throughout this process I spent time in temporary accommodation, and I was assisted by charities I never even knew existed. 

Prior to becoming a mother, I had a successful career in Banking and Finance and was on my way to achieving great things, but I suddenly found myself at the complete opposite end of the spectrum, in need of help.

And what happened next?

I was lucky enough to be offered a new build home on the Rembrandt development in West Watford. This home gave me a sense of stability that I obviously hadn’t had for a while. Overall, my tenancy with Watford Community Housing has been a happy one and although there were occasions when things didn’t go right, they were always put right, and I felt that the general consensus of their staff is to help achieve this. 

Once I’d moved in, I decided to look for some form of work which might help others struggling to find homes or improve their own situations. With a young child at home, I could not commit to full time work and I needed something flexible and part time. It was at this time I visited the Watford Community Housing website and applied for the Tenant Board Member position. I was successfully appointed just 4 months after having become a tenant!

What’s it been like being a board member of a housing association?

Being a board member for Watford Community Housing has really been a revelation and an honour! I have always felt supported and valued. I’ve been offered opportunities to gain knowledge in key areas where I felt I could use some support, and both the executive management team and my fellow board members have been approachable and helpful throughout. 

There’s been a wealth of opportunities for me – contributing to tasks, working alongside high-level staff members and the GMT to improve quality of living for customers, and Watford Community Housing has even fully funded my Level 3 Certificate in Housing practice.

Further to this, I have been able to gain insight into the challenges many housing associations face, both from an economic and political perspective.

And you’re now pursuing a career in housing, correct?

Absolutely. Watford Community Housing could not be more supportive. I feel that the qualifications they’ve funded, along with my own life experience and time as a board member have given me a unique perspective whereby, I understand the challenges and complexities facing both housing associations and tenants.

Any ideas on the job role?

This is a trickier question to answer! I’m not entirely sure of the specific role but a year ago I became Chair of the Customer Experience Committee, and the more I think about it the more I’m drawn to Housing Operations. It would be brilliant to have the chance to apply the skills from my CIH qualification and my own personal experience to improve services and processes for other customers. 

Finally, do you have any advice for someone considering a career in housing?

Go for it! Over my time as a tenant and a board member at Watford Community Housing I’ve formed a deep love of all things housing. My only qualm is that I didn’t start sooner!