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From the frontline - Hilda Eduah
Hilda Eduah, independent living and community officer at Sovereign, talks about the importance of offering residents information
Tell us about your job.
I work with residents who are over 55, living in our supported housing schemes. A large number of these residents are on their own.
By getting to know them, I establish their common interests and help to arrange activities to help reduce isolation, providing them with opportunities to develop friendships.
I look for ways to build local networking opportunities and partnerships to offer residents access to a wide range of information and resources. A major part of my role is help to maintain independence and sustain tenancies by organising drop-in surgeries where residents are given one-on-one attention.
How did you get into housing?
My first role in housing was as a housing support officer. To be honest, I was more drawn to the support element of the role when I applied. Since getting into my previous and current roles, my understanding of the housing sector has improved.
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What is the best part of your job?
Some residents worry about quite simple things, so being able to answer their queries and see how appreciative they are makes my job worthwhile.
Being able to work collaboratively with other professionals to provide a positive outcome for residents also makes the job meaningful.
What’s the worst part?
I wouldn’t say it is the worst part but it can be challenging at times to find ways to engage with residents. I can offer options, but I can’t make people join in with things.
What would you change about the housing sector?
I would like to bridge the supply and demand gap in housing, so that a lot more working families can get on the housing ladder.
The government Help to Buy scheme is great, however raising 5% deposit on a home in certain parts of the country is not easy.
If you could be prime minister for the day, what would you do?
Perhaps explain what that the term “Brexit means Brexit” actually means.
What’s the most private thing you’re willing to admit to your colleagues?
I stumbled on a YouTube channel about a biracial couple with their six children that I have been binge watching. I don’t understand why people would want to put their lives out there for all to see, but I can’t stop watching either!
