Dear Residents,

I’m delighted to introduce myself as the new Chief Executive of Housing for Women.

Even before officially starting, I’ve been struck by the organisation’s proud history and the real, lasting difference it has made in women’s lives for more than 90 years.

It is a legacy built on determination, compassion and a commitment to tackling the inequalities women face, and it is a mission I am deeply proud to continue.

Throughout my 25-year career across social housing, local authorities and charities, one lesson has stood out above all others: the importance of listening. Listening to residents, listening to staff and listening to the communities we serve.

What matters most to me is that the women who rely on Housing for Women feel genuinely heard, whether they live in our homes or access our supported housing services.

Your experiences, insights and perspectives are central to shaping the future of our organisation. You know your homes, neighbourhoods and communities better than anyone, and I want to learn directly from you.

I also want to acknowledge that there are areas where we need to improve. Being open and honest about that is important to me. My commitment is to listen carefully, work together with residents to identify where change is needed, keep you informed about the steps we are taking, and work collaboratively to deliver positive outcomes for our communities.

Over the coming months, I will be spending time getting to know Housing for Women, learning more about what makes it a special organisation, and identifying where we can strengthen, improve and grow.

As part of this, from 25 September, I will be holding 30-minute telephone appointments on the last Friday of every month, giving you the opportunity to speak with me directly. Whether you would like to share a good experience or an experience that did not meet expectations, raise a concern or suggest an idea for improvement, I would be pleased to hear from you.

You will soon be able to find details of how to book a slot on our website and social media channels, in Connect, our resident newsletter, or by letter.

I’m truly looking forward to meeting you, hearing your views and working together to shape the future of Housing for Women.

With my very best wishes,

Alison Muir