To help us work more efficiently, we’ve changed the structure of how we operate. Here are some more details about what that means and how it may affect you:
We have recently been making changes to our legal structure in order to create further efficiencies and strengthen our customer focus. You may recall that we asked for your feedback about this through a formal consultation letter we sent out back in the Autumn of 2019. Since that time, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to implement the change and ensure that all our systems and processes are set up correctly to enable the change without any interruption in services to you.
What has changed?
Since 2008 we have been managing our properties through two separate housing associations – Orbit South Housing Association (covering the East and South East) and Heart of England Housing Association (covering the Midlands). We have decided to combine those two housing associations and create a single legal entity, ‘Orbit Housing Association Limited’ (OHAL), to be responsible for the monitoring and oversight of all our landlord services and operations. This change took place with effect from 1 April 2021.
This change will also create efficiencies and consistency in terms of our governance, replacing two existing Boards with one and therefore, reducing the number of meetings and the bureaucracy that comes with that. This will allow us to invest more time and resources into improving your homes, neighbourhoods and communities. OHAL will continue to have four residents on its Board and they will review our performance and help shape and influence how we deliver services to you in the future.
What does this mean for you?
If you pay your rent or other charges by Direct Debit or payment card you don’t need to do anything.
If you pay your rent or other charges by BACS or standing order payments, the account you pay your rent or other charges into will need to be changed to the following:
Name
Orbit Housing Association Ltd
Account
NatWest Bank
Sort Code
60-14-05
Account Number
07238525
We will be contacting those customers affected directly. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please just let us know by completing the ‘contact us’ form on our website by visiting orbitcustomerhub.org.uk/contact-us/ or by calling 0800 678 1221.