Bromford pilots ‘place-based working’ approach to services in Staffordshire

“By directly involving the locally based teams, like our gas team to address residents’ boiler issues or fast-tracking solutions for condensation and mould, we’re able to resolve problems quickly and reduce complaints,” Ms Minchin added.

The association said the model also involves working in collaboration with local councillors and businesses on community projects in South Lichfield, such as improving its outdoor spaces and making them more welcoming. 

Bromford has already trialled the PBW approach in Staple Hill in South Gloucestershire, and intends to roll out the model to more areas, continuing to “prioritise resident well-being and strengthen local communities”.

Mark Willis, economist at Bromford, said: “By engaging with communities directly and understanding their concerns, we can create tailored solutions that have a real impact. Our work in Lichfield is just the beginning, and we’re committed to continuing to make the area a better place to live.”

Bromford is not the only landlord looking for place-based solutions to service delivery.

In a comment piece for Inside Housing last month, Rahul Patalia, head of urban regeneration at engineering consultancy WSP, revealed how a place-based approach enables local contexts to shape solutions, allowing communities to engage in the regeneration process. 

In September 2024, Matt Corbett, director of the L&Q Foundation, shared that being geographically focused allows the organisation “to go further to meet the evolving needs of communities in our core areas”.