Do we need to rethink how we work?
Many organisations will be granted permission to reopen from 15th June. Restrictions on how we are allowed to interact are soon to be eased and regular work streams can pick back up. Furloughed staff are already starting to return to work and there will undoubtedly be a big back-log to come back to.
The affordable housing sector is still seeing emergency repairs and external works taking priority as social distancing measures are predicted to be here for the foreseeable future. Planned works are also beginning to start back up, but we are still a way away from things returning to normal.
This is a key question for us all, “is returning to business as usual the right approach?” Organisations across the UK have been encouraged to adapt to the market and change the way they operate to adhere to a changing world.
- Operatives now ‘click and collect’ materials
- Management and support staff working from home
- PPE means much more than it used to
- How we work and interact in offices, customer homes and factories feels very different
COVID-19 has undoubtedly had a negative impact on the housing sector and particularly contractors and the supply chain, with development and asset management projects being put on hold. But it has brought with it some long-term benefits. It has proven that clients and service providers are able to adapt quickly to tough situations and some have been able to thrive. We are all having to reassess how our organisations operate and continue to provide great services, whilst ensuring the wellbeing of customers and staff.
The No Access Dilemma
Contractors are seeing an increased level of ‘no access’ properties. COVID-19 has raised understandable concerns for many tenants, who need to be reassured that access to works are safe.
Misinformation can be common whether this comes from the news, social media or word of mouth. Therefore, good and regular communication is key in ensuring that tenants know the procedures contractors are required to follow when undertaking internal and external works.
We are all ‘finding or way’. But to catch up on the backlog of repairs and to kick start planned investment, residents need to trust the operatives and the clients and contractors need to safeguard residents and staff.
If you would like to share how you are managing the access issues, please get in touch enquiries@chicltd.co.uk
