The HIP: The Housing Industry Podcast
The housing crisis looms large. The UK’s crying out for housing stock, and new builds can play a huge role in the recovery. Diversity and inclusion is finally getting the attention it deserves at a strategic level. Although there’s plenty of work still to do. And environmental concerns are taking centre stage, with time running out to reach ambitious targets in net zero carbon emissions. Suffice to say, the UK housing sector is going through a period of great change right now. With everything developing at such a pace, it can be hard to keep your finger on the pulse. That’s why we’ve launched The Housing Industry Podcast. Featuring lively conversations with key leaders in the housing sector, The Housing Industry Podcast will provide real value to anyone working in the UK housing market who cares about making a difference.
The HIP: The Housing Industry Podcast
The Truth About Housing Marginalised Communities With Paul Smith
What can the housing sector do to better support marginalised communities and
build a more inclusive society?
In this episode, Chief Executive of Elim Housing Association, Paul Smith, shares his
work with diverse communities, the challenges of overcoming prejudice, and the
importance of creating inclusive housing opportunities.
Paul has 35 years of experience in housing, including roles in youth homelessness
and local government. As Chief Executive of Elim Housing Association, Paul leads a provider specialising in supporting Traveller communities, the homeless, and people with complex needs.
We dive into the important role small housing associations like Elim play in bridging gaps, advocating for fair resources, and reshaping housing for marginalised communities, all while navigating the challenges of limited funding and entrenched stigma.
Paul’s approach focuses on collaboration, bold partnerships, and an unwavering
commitment to delivering the support every community deserves.
In this episode, we cover:
● How to equip housing staff to support the needs of the Traveller community.
● Why integrating diverse communities into mainstream housing matters.
● The role of small housing providers in addressing community gaps.
● How to build lasting relationships with vulnerable communities.
● Spotting and overcoming prejudice and discrimination in housing practices.
● How partnerships and collaboration can help to deliver better outcomes.
● The challenges of balancing funding with the need for specialist services.
● How to adapt housing policies to meet the needs of all communities.
● What’s being done to create fair housing opportunities for the Traveller
community.
Paul Smith’s passion for inclusivity and drive to create real change is nothing short of inspiring. Listen in to hear how Elim is proving that being small doesn’t stop them from making a mighty impact.
LEARN MORE
A guide to providing and managing sites for Gypsies and Travellers -
https://www.elimhousing.co.uk/media/1601/places-were-proud-of.pdf
Elim Housing - https://www.elimhousing.co.uk/
Andersen James - https://www.andersenjames.com/
CONNECT
Paul Smith on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/housingpaul/
James Leighton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-leighton-65023b11/
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1JHMfNs33BK4UTOgaYt3cB
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/the-hip/id1576686644
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7vH1zt3GSm3_B_-OhDSlRg