News in 5

Paula completed our feedback survey in the summer edition of Shine and is very pleased to win one of five £50 shopping vouchers. Paula said: “This is fab, I’ve never won anything before.” Congratulations to our other winners too and thank you to everyone who took the time to fill out the survey – your feedback matters to us.

We know how crucial it is that your heating system works properly. After hearing that you were waiting too long for some repairs to be completed in your homes, we’ve made some changes.

Since September, two new contractors have begun carrying out all gas and oil services and repairs in your homes. Axis Europe will be servicing homes with postcodes beginning with CO, IP and NR. If your postcode begins with CM, CB or SS, then Gas Call Services will support you.This will ensure that engineers can provide services more locally and reduce response times.

Plus, from 2024, Axis Europe and Gas Call Services will also be completing more safety checks during the warmer months to ensure more engineers can respond to emergency call outs across the winter period.

We’ve also changed our contractor for your annual servicing and repairs to your Air Source Heat Pump. This will now be conducted by Ecolution Group.

To book any repairs, please call our Customer Services team on 0330 128 0330.

Our All In Alliances have been busy in the communities working closely with local people to find out how, together, we can make a difference to our towns and cities.

The alliances have been acting in Witham to tackle the issue of parking, and joining forces with local authorities to form a Community Hub in Braintree. They’ve also been supporting the community in Halstead and Colchester too. With your help, we can make our communities a lovelier place for us all.

The next meetings are planned for this winter. If you’d like to join an Alliance near you, head to www.weareallin.co.uk/join-all-in.

Last year, we built a record 324 new homes. We do this because there are thousands of people in our communities who cannot afford to buy or rent a home privately. At the same time, there are not enough affordable homes to provide a roof over the head of everyone who needs one.

Until recently they included Perry, who was living in temporary accommodation and struggling with his mental health until securing a new-build home in Feering.

Perry said: “Since Eastlight has been in contact, my entire life changed in a week. I cannot explain the significance of having a safe, affordable place to call my home. As a result of moving in, my mental health has dramatically improved. There is clearly a huge need for affordable housing, and I feel very grateful to have this opportunity.”

If you live in a flat, you should have recently received a personalised door hanger from us. These contain crucial information about ensuring your front doors can keep you safe in the event of a smoke or fire.

We’re sending these to you annually in line with new Government legislation, introduced following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Please read the information carefully, keep it in a safe place and contact us with any questions.