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From the frontline – social investment co-ordinator Natalie Pillinger

Natalie Pillinger, social investment co-ordinator at CCHA, on helping people overcome barriers to employment and why she would focus on mental health if she spent a day as prime minister

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From the frontline – social investment co-ordinator Natalie Pillinger #ukhousing

Tell us about your job.

I am responsible for employability services, community benefits, and targeted recruitment and training. I manage projects that support people experiencing poverty and enable them to overcome barriers to employment and have a more social and prosperous life.

How did you get into housing?

I worked in retail management. After the birth of my son, I took a career break and worked part-time at Cardiff Council, which led to admin work for a team of into-work advisors. I shadowed them and completed a level four qualification in advice and guidance. I was working on a European Social Fund project when I applied for the Lift employment programme. I got it and I’ve now been in housing for the past five years.

What’s the best part of your job?

The difference we make to people’s lives. I have the autonomy to create and develop projects and initiatives that make a real difference. I have a talented and passionate team that are very committed and all of us have the same values.


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What’s the worst part?

Seeing a great project that is doing amazing work having to end before it should due to funding problems.

What would your superpower be?

To click my fingers to build homes for those who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in abusive relationships. Homelessness and affordable housing is one of the most complex barriers to overcome when assisting people in our communities.

What would you change about the housing sector?

I would make getting a home simpler – it’s just too hard at the moment. The private rented sector is often the only option, which is too expensive and poorly regulated and doesn’t offer a secure home for people to settle and become part of the community.

If you could be prime minister for the day, what would you do?

I would put more money into mental health services, to reduce the number of people on waiting lists for counselling services. Low-level mental ill health, if not treated quickly or effectively, often worsens, making it more difficult and costly to treat. In addition, I would prioritise housing as a human right.

What’s the most private thing you’re willing to admit to your colleagues?

I would like to be part of a gospel choir, like in Sister Act. But I don’t think I would be accepted as a nun – much like Whoopi Goldberg!

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