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From the frontline – Ndubuisi Okoye
Ndubuisi Okoye, chargehand caretaker at Lewisham Homes, talks about the need to make more single dads aware of their rights when applying for social housing
What does your job involve?
I’m a chargehand caretaker based at the Milford Towers Estate in Catford, south-east London.
My job includes cleaning and maintaining the estate, deputising for my supervisor when needed, and liaising with local authorities to discuss different health and safety issues and instances of anti-social behaviour.
How did you get into the sector?
I previously worked in construction, specifically demolition and refurbishment, but the work wasn’t consistent and I was looking for something steadier.
Luckily, a vacancy became available at Lewisham Homes and I got the job.
What’s the best thing about your job?
It’s mostly the satisfaction I feel when tenants and colleagues show appreciation for what I’ve done.
The support I get from management is also very much appreciated.
To top it off, I live on the estate so there isn’t a long commute to work.
And the worst?
Having to deal with tenants who dispose of their household rubbish in the wrong places. It’s also tough dealing with drug users, alcoholics and rough sleepers.
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What would you change about the housing sector?
I’d make more single dads aware of their rights and of the resources available to them when applying for social housing. In my experience, single dads often don’t feel they are as much of a priority as single mums and I’d like to change that perception.
If you could be prime minister for the day, what would you do?
My top priorities would be to focus on building more affordable housing developments, making private rent more affordable in London and making it easier for first-time buyers to get on the housing ladder.
What would your dream job be?
I would love to become a qualified personal trainer one day.
What’s the most private thing you’d be willing to admit to your colleagues?
You’re not going to catch me out that easily! There’s nothing I’d be willing to admit at the moment – that’s why it’s private.
