Big is not always better. Merger between L&Q, Hyde and East Thames Housing Associations

Press release "UNISON HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS BRANCH RESPONSE – MERGER BETWEEN L&Q,

Over 4,000 workers employed by L&Q, Hyde Group and East Thames will be affected by the plans announced today to merge the three Housing Associations. The new ‘super’ Housing Association is expected to become one of the largest social landlords in Europe.

Commenting on the merger, John Gray, Branch Secretary of the UNISON Housing Associations branch said: “We are seeing more and more of these mergers as social landlords try and shore themselves up against an uncertain future. Conservative policies like Right to Buy, Pay to Stay, and the cut to social rent are forcing the social housing sector into turmoil.”

“The housing crisis in London affects all our members and we welcome increased investment in social housing. But the three associations must recognise that big does not always mean better and that residents and staff will have real concerns about this proposal.”

“Employers must recognise that the success of their plans relies on the efforts of their dedicated workforce. UNISON is the union which speaks for workers in East Thames, Hyde, and L&Q and our priority in talks with all three employers will be to ensure that jobs and working conditions are protected.”

For more information contact Josephine Grahl, UNISON Housing Associations Branch Manager/Organiser, on 020 7697 4030/4031 or info@unisonhablondon.org

Notes for editors

· UNISON represents 1.3 million workers employed in the public sector, by private contractors and in the not-for-profit sector, including over 20,000 members in housing associations. The UNISON Housing Associations Branch represents over 3,000 workers in social and supported housing across Greater London.

Update: check out Redbrick view on merger news https://redbrickblog.wordpress.com/2016/04/07/grand-plans-but-tenants-just-an-afterthought-and-worse/