Bernicia director appointed HENNE chair

Bernicia’s executive director of communities Jenny Allinson has been appointed chair of the Housing Employment Network North East (HENNE).

The partnership brings together 12 housing associations managing more than 186,000 homes across the region to help tenants overcome barriers to employment.

Jenny succeeds Tyne Housing chief executive Steve McKinlay, who steps down after four years in the role. 

During his tenure, the partnership secured more than £6 million in funding and supported 7755 people towards work, with 2539 moving into employment.

HENNE includes organisations such as Believe Housing, Gentoo, Home Group, Karbon Homes and Thirteen Group, and works with regional partners to deliver employment support for social housing tenants.

Jenny said: “I am delighted to take on the role of HENNE chair and I’d like to thank Steve for his leadership and passion in his time as chair. 

“I hope to build upon the solid foundations he has laid.

“It’s vitally important that as social housing providers deeply rooted in North East communities, we use our knowledge and expertise to work with partners, supply chains and employers to do all we can to help tenants and communities access employment.

“HENNE helps us do just that - by using our knowledge and influence, housing providers are supporting local people to access skills and opportunities that lead to good work, meaning that regional growth is fairer growth.”

Steve added: “I’m proud of our achievements together and grateful that the close working partnership we have formed has delivered so many good news stories for tenants and local communities.

“Jenny is an incredibly capable leader and just as importantly, is totally invested in helping our tenants be the best that they can be.”

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