Anchor Hanover becomes first older people’s specialist to achieve ‘Pledge Plus’ status

Anchor Hanover is among the first housing associations to gain the highest level of accreditation possible under the HouseProud Pledge Scheme, which recognises a commitment to LGBTQ+ resident equality.

The HouseProud Pledge is a scheme that all housing providers can to sign up to, to demonstrate their commitment to LGBTQ+ resident equality and support. 

As a member of the scheme, the housing and care provider, is one of only two housing organisations and the first older people’s specialist to have achieved ‘Pledge Plus’ status. 

The pledge was developed by HouseProud and the University of Surrey in association with residents, staff members and sector leaders to address the issues raised by the findings of ‘No Place Like Home?’ the largest study ever undertaken to understand the experiences of LGBTQ+ people living in social housing.

As an early adopter of the scheme which was introduced as a result of this research, Anchor Hanover has actively championed equality and diversity. 

To have achieved ‘The Pledge Plus’ status reflects a firm commitment to delivering substantial change for LGBTQ+ residents. 

Recognising ways in which LGBTQ+ residents can continue to receive support; Anchor Hanover will also be marking LGBTQ+ history month this February through a range of different activities. A resource pack has been created for colleagues to help them host events at their locations for residents and support meaningful engagement.

The Rainbow network will be sharing profiles of LGBTQ+ figures from history, the stories of colleagues and residents and sharing the support available within Anchor Hanover.  With work currently underway to also highlight the importance of using individual’s preferred pronouns. 

Jane Ashcroft CBE, Chief Executive of Anchor Hanover said: 

We are delighted to have been awarded ‘Pledge Plus’ status in recognition of our work with LGBTQ+ residents. We encourage dialogue at our communities and strive to provide an environment where residents can share experiences and raise concerns. We believe strongly that making sure diverse voices are heard will help us meet the needs of current and future residents. 

John Stevens, co-chair of HouseProud said:

Anchor Hanover have responded to the HouseProud research ‘No Place Like Home?’ call to action for housing providers to change the way they deliver services to reflect the needs and preferences of LGBTQ+ residents. They have agreed objectives with their engaged LGBT+ residents around their Hate Crime policy and moving forward, around how LGBT+ resident lives can be integrated across the board in colleagues learning and development. It’s great to see such positive steps forward.

Visit anchorhanover.org.uk/guides-and-support/diversity to find out more about support offered to LGBTQ+ residents.