Karbon Homes joins Chamber Partners to build a stronger North East
The partnership brings together two organisations with a shared ambition to unlock the North East’s potential by securing quality jobs of the future, developing skills, capitalising on the net zero journey and ensuring the benefits of growth are felt by everyone.
As one of the region’s largest employers, housing association Karbon Homes plays a significant role in the North East economy, building hundreds of new homes each year, supporting more than 1,000 colleagues and more than 60,000 customers, and investing millions of pounds each year in regional supply chains.
Paul Fiddaman, chief executive of the Karbon Group, said: “We see housing as a real driver of inclusive economic growth. Building and maintaining homes creates jobs in construction, trades and housing, as well as a wide range of back-office functions, while our investments support businesses right across the region.
“Skills are also critical. We’re committed to helping our customers and local communities develop the skills needed across our sector, strengthening both our workforce and the wider regional supply chain.
“We’re very proud to be a North East business and becoming a Chamber Partner gives us the opportunity to amplify the voices of our customers and colleagues and contribute to conversations that influence regional and national policy, shaping the future of our region.”
Paul added: “We already collaborate with many Chamber Partners and have seen the value those partnerships can deliver. Together with our contractors and suppliers we helped unlock £5.7m of social value through apprenticeships, community investment and charitable initiatives.
“We’re excited to build on those relationships and create even greater impact across the North East.”
Karbon Homes is part of a consortium of housing associations, including believe housing, Bernicia, Durham Aged Miners’ Housing Association and Livin, which has recently secured £350m funding from the government to develop more than 2,500 new affordable homes across the region over the next few years.
Karbon Homes is also investing significantly in the region’s net zero future, with plans to ensure all of its homes achieve EPC Band C by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. The programme will improve the energy efficiency of thousands of homes, helping customers reduce energy costs while supporting the transition to a greener economy.
Beyond housing, the organisation continues to expand its community impact through initiatives including the recently launched Karbon Foundation, which will focus on improving people’s social and financial wellbeing and delivering community investment.
John McCabe, chief executive at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “Karbon Homes is an organisation that demonstrates how economic success and social impact go hand in hand. Its investment in quality homes, local jobs, skills and community wellbeing reflects many of the priorities set out in our Unlocking the North East Economy policy plan.
“We’re delighted to welcome Karbon Homes as a Chamber Partner and look forward to working together to strengthen regional collaboration, champion inclusive growth and ensure the North East remains a place where people and businesses can thrive.”
Formed in 2017, Karbon Homes owns and manages around 34,000 homes across the North East and Yorkshire. Alongside providing affordable, safe and high-quality homes, the organisation delivers a wide range of services including employment support, financial advice, community programmes and sheltered housing, helping more than 60,000 customers build secure and fulfilling lives.
