Introducing our Social Justice Strategy

At whg our commitment to addressing economic and social inequalities has always been at the heart of our work. As a social landlord managing 22,000 homes across the West Midlands we see every day how deprivation, limited opportunities and social stigma affect the lives of our approximately 55,000 residents.

Today I’m pleased to introduce our Social Justice Strategy – a new framework designed to build on our past successes and set out clear strategic aims for the future.

Why social justice matters

In the West Midlands, the challenges are very real. Nearly 90% of our homes are situated in the top 30% of the poorest neighbourhoods in England and 46% are in the top 10% – figures that far exceed the national average for social housing. With these communities facing rising living costs, health inequalities and ongoing skills shortages, fostering an environment where everyone has a chance to succeed is essential for sustained community resilience and economic growth.

As an anchor institution deeply rooted in place we believe our actions can level the playing field for our communities.

What our strategy does

Our Social Justice Strategy is built around four interconnected aims. Each aim is supported by detailed initiatives that together form a comprehensive approach to making real change:

• Tackling economic inequality
  We will take a proactive approach to reducing economic disparities through targeted support, helping our customers with robust debt and money advice and financial and digital upskilling. Local partnerships will create employment pathways through skills development. Our initiatives will help unlock access to better employment and economic security.
• Strengthening communities and creating opportunities
  We are deepening our partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, health and public health organisations and community groups. By mobilising community insight through initiatives like Life Matters, You Matter and improved social prescribing programmes we are actively reducing health and social disparities and building more connected, resilient neighbourhoods.
• Investing in our homes to build social justice
  Every pound we invest in our homes creates far-reaching benefits. Using data-driven tools like our SHAPE system we target our investments where they are needed most. Our work in property enhancement – from energy efficiency to maintenance – not only improves living conditions but also generates local jobs and challenges outdated stereotypes about social housing.
• Developing a strong and influential voice
  We are committed to amplifying our customers’ stories and using their experiences to influence policy and reshape perceptions of social housing. By partnering with national bodies and research institutions and actively engaging in government consultations we ensure that secure, quality housing is recognised as essential for a fair society.

A thoughtful approach for the future

Our Social Justice Strategy isn’t about quick fixes – it is built on a strong evidence base and years of experience from initiatives like H Factor and Work4 that have demonstrated the transformative impact of comprehensive support on communities. While resources remain finite our strategy charts a clear path forward that leverages our strengths and deepens our partnerships for maximum impact.

At whg social justice means creating the conditions in which every person has the chance to succeed – whether through improved financial security, better health outcomes or access to meaningful employment. It is my hope that by sharing this strategy we will inspire our partners and customers and invite a broader conversation about the future of our communities.

We’re looking forward to sharing more about our work as we deliver on our strategy. Please make sure you are following us on LinkedIn for regular updates along the way.

Fay Shanahan

Corporate Director of Operations and IT, whg