Housing MP Ian Austin applauds Peabody's community services

Tuesday 9th March 2010

Junior Housing Minister Ian Austin gave Peabody a glowing report after visiting the Gateway Centre earlier this week to see how we are tackling worklessness.

During his visit Ian met Peabody residents and staff and saw a range of our community services in action, including the Care to Work and Gateway to Work programmes.

He also presented certificates to students who had completed the 'Personal Best' programme, gaining basic IT, literacy and numeracy skills.

Following the visit, Ian Austin said: "Peabody is a great example of the key role housing associations can play, not just in helping social tenants find a home but also in providing training and support to help them get the skills and knowledge they need to realise their potential.

"We want to see as many housing associations as possible offer the kind of support that Peabody offers to improve life chances and tackle disadvantage. That's why we've announced an extra £1.2 million for councils and housing associations to run test schemes to improve the job prospects and financial situation of hardworking tenants affected by the recession."

Posted by Kim for Peabody Trust