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From the frontline

Amanda Irving, a neighbourhood place officer at Helena Partnerships, talks to Simon Brandon about inspiration from the community, and travelling through time

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AMANDA IRVING 643px

How did you get into housing?

I studied criminology at university and learned about housing and homelessness.

I then carried out some volunteer work, which involved reintegrating ex-offenders back into the community by helping them to find accommodation.

I came to understand how fundamental housing is and the impact it can have on individuals’ lives. My career in housing started from there.

How long have you been working in the sector?

Around four years now.

What has changed in that time?

External factors have had the biggest influence, with the most prevalent being the effect welfarereform has had on the lives of our customers.

What does your jobinvolve?

I am responsible for overall tenancy and property management, overseeing any issues in the neighbourhood and liaising with different agencies and departments to sustain tenancies.

What motivates you at work?

The variety, the challenges, and seeing the influence housing can have on people’s health, well-being and aspirations.  

“Never underestimate the impact you can have on an individual’s life.”

What was your best day at work?

My best days are when I see opportunities for people in the community increase. It’s also great to help people into employment.

What was your worst day at work?

There are days which do not always go according to plan, but I learn a lot from those days as well as the good days which is all good experience.

What has the job taught you?

Empathy, self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

If you could be prime minister for a day, what law would you pass?

I’d make sure every child was able to have the best start in life.

What would your superpower be?

Time travel – I’d be interested to go back 50 or 60 years to see how differently we saw housing then and now, and how far we’ve come.

If you could pass on one piece of wisdom to someone starting out in your role, what would it be?

Never underestimate the impact you can have on an individual’s life - and be brave.


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