TLA welcomes new Chair of Trustees

WELCOME to Turning Lives Around’s new Chair of Trustees, Liz O’Connor.

Liz joins us with a 30+ year career in social housing and regeneration including experience in tenant engagement, asset management, repairs and maintenance.

She is currently a consultant on repairs, maintenance, asset management and customer service within social housing having previously worked her way from Engagement Officer with Wakefield Council to director level with Horton Housing, a not-for-profit housing association operating in West and North Yorkshire.

“Horton Housing provides support services and accommodation to tenants with complex needs around drugs and alcohol, similar to TLA, and trying to do the best for people who have very complex lives is something I am passionate about,” said Liz who has worked with TLA before through Chartford Housing (part of the Horton Housing Group).

“When I saw that TLA were looking for a new Chair, it sparked an interest in me. I knew the organisation quite well; its values align with mine and the staff I had met share the same goal and are passionate about making a difference. I was also interviewed by trustees for the role and it was great to hear how invested they are in TLA.”

An advocate for social housing, Liz is involved in a number of organisations providing advice, support and awareness raising for those working within the sector including the National Housing Maintenance Federation and, as Vice Chair, Women in Social Housing for Yorkshire and Humber.

Governance is a key part of the role of trustees and of the Chair in particular, ensuring the organisation remains sustainable and financially resilient. To achieve RP status, it also needs to be compliant with the new regulatory standards for registered social housing which relate to property and tenant safety, viability and communication with tenants – all something Liz is experienced in.

“The work TLA does is great and makes a real difference to people’s lives. There’s a keenness to grow and develop and a focus on achieving Registered Provider (RP) status which will bring so many benefits. I’m looking forward to playing a part in that, widening our audience, growing areas we are already working in and really making our mark,” said Liz.

TLA’s CEO Steve Hoey welcomed Liz’s appointment as Chair at the charity’s recent AGM. “Liz is a valuable addition to our Board of Trustees bringing with her a strong understanding of the social housing sector plus a wealth of experience. TLA is looking forward to taking this on board and harnessing it to tackle the challenges we face while maximising on opportunities,” Steve said.

“I’m confident that under Liz’s leadership as Chair, TLA will continue to thrive and successfully support those who are vulnerable and homeless, or at risk of homelessness, in West Yorkshire.”

Caption: Welcoming Liz O'Connor to TLA's Board of Trustees, Steve Hoey (left) and outgoing Chairman Martin Ford.