01/05/2007   D5/07   Downland

BHT becomes a subsidiary of Downland

Following on from the successful transfer of BHT’s general needs homes to Downland, BHT will today become a subsidiary of Downland Housing Association.

BHT is a specialist housing association that focuses on supported housing, helping the homeless, working with the private rented sector, mental health and addiction problems and advice services including legal advice.

Previously a subsidiary of William Sutton Homes, BHT works predominantly along the South coast, and given this geography the move to Downland, with their strong local presence there, was a natural one.

This move will also allow BHT to continue focus on providing their specialist services, which in the last year alone saw:

• BHT’s Legal Services team deal with 3,617 new housing cases in Brighton and Hove and Eastbourne.
• Give advice and representation to 9,947 individuals through their housing/immigration solicitors and advice workers.
• 1,089 different people benefit from the services provided at the First Base Day Centre.
• Provide addiction services to 132 residents.
• Floating support given to 434 residents.

Andy Winter, Chief Executive of BHT commented; “As a small and specialist housing organisation we will really benefit from Downland’s excellent local reputation, allowing us to focus on overcoming the whole range of difficulties and obstacles faced by the people who use our services.”

The transfer of BHT to Downland is one of a number of steps that has been taken following the merger of William Sutton Group and The Affinity Homes Group, to strengthen services provided to residents by providing them through the organisation best placed locally to deliver them.

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