This winter, a powerful partnership between SureServe and NHG helped ensure that some of our most vulnerable residents stayed warm, safe, and supported during the coldest months of the year.
When temperatures drop, the impact is felt most sharply by those who are older, isolated, or already struggling to make ends meet.
A partnership built on social value
SureServe – NHG’s heating and hot water contractor – stepped forward with a generous £2,000 contribution as part of their social value commitments to us. Together with our tenancy sustainment team’s match funded contribution through the hardship fund, this doubled the pot to £4,000 offering meaningful, practical help to as many residents as possible.
This collaboration is a clear example of social value in action directly investing in the wellbeing of our residents – demonstrating a commitment not just to service delivery, but to community impact.
Delivering support where it was needed most
Once the funding was secured, the initiative moved quickly. Frontline teams were briefed, referrals were verified, and support was distributed to residents identified as being in the greatest need.
Residents were offered a choice of practical, immediate help:
- £50 supermarket voucher
- Energy voucher for prepayment meter users
- Winter essentials pack, including socks, thermal accessories, a fleece blanket, and a gilet
Running from 21 November 2025 to 23 February 2026, the scheme was perfectly timed to cover the harshest part of winter.
Reaching our oldest and most vulnerable residents
The initiative delivered support to 80 residents, with a strong focus on those aged 80 and over – the group most at risk from cold homes and rising living costs.
- 93.8% of all vouchers went to residents aged 80+
- The oldest resident supported was 102 years old
- Residents under 80 were helped only in cases of exceptional hardship
- Support reached households across 11 boroughs, ensuring wide geographical impact
This targeted approach meant the funding reached exactly who it was intended for: older residents who often face the greatest challenges during winter.
A model for future winter support
This initiative shows what can be achieved when contractors, social value teams, and tenancy sustainment colleagues work together with a shared purpose. By combining resources and expertise, we delivered meaningful, practical support that improved comfort, safety, and wellbeing for some of our oldest residents.
It also highlights the importance of social value partnerships – demonstrating how suppliers can play a vital role in strengthening communities and supporting residents beyond the core services they provide.
