Working together for stronger communities

Local MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, Debbie Abrahams, recently met with our chief executive, Mark Gifford for the first time and they have pledged to work together and build stronger communities in the borough.

Ms Abrahams visited Mark Gifford at FCHO’s Union Street offices earlier this month for a wide-ranging discussion.

During their meeting, the pair talked about repairs to FCHO’s homes, improved communication with customers and stakeholders and the issue of land supply so the homes Oldham needs can be built.

“It was really important to meet with Debbie and talk about some of the challenges and opportunities we must face and deliver here in Oldham to improve our town," said Mr Gifford.

"One of my priorities is for FCHO to further embed itself as an anchor organisation working with stakeholders like our MPs and councillors to develop the stronger communities we need.

“I know Debbie undertakes great work in her constituency to address inequality and promote opportunity for our young people through her annual summer school and I said FCHO will do all it can to help and support those priorities because they are our priorities too.

“A huge issue also is how we find the land to build the good-quality, affordable homes Oldham needs while promoting skills and apprenticeships for our young people. I am pleased she said she will work with FCHO to see how we can achieve that together."

He added: "As the new chief executive, I hope to meet with many more of our elected representatives over the coming months to hear their views about FCHO and their ideas too on how we can all make Oldham better while we continue to undertake our core work of building and managing the very best homes across the town for our customers.”

Ms Abrahams, who is the MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, said: “I was delighted to meet FCHO's new CEO, Mark Gifford last week to discuss FCHO's plans in my constituency including the delivery of hundreds of new social homes in Oldham as well as the work it is doing to improve customer service and experience.

“I am encouraged by his commitment to make FCHO part of building stronger communities and look forward to seeing these plans coming to fruition. I will continue to support and work with important housing associations in Oldham like FCHO, who have an important role to play in delivering for the constituency but will also always hold them to account on behalf of my constituents."