Hundreds of homes and thousands of people given support and opportunities, with plans for more in 2026

As 2026 begins, we’re reflecting on a year of achievements that go far beyond providing a place to live.

Whilst investing in homes and building new ones remains at the heart of what we do, we’ve also made a real impact on people’s lives, thanks to the support of customers, partners and colleagues who make it all possible.

Last year, we handed 800 keys over to families moving into our existing homes, as well as completing over 220 new homes, with another 150 underway. From the regeneration of Ashtree Close in Belton to the transformation of the former Ashby Market site in Scunthorpe, and rural bungalow developments in South Killingholme and Hibaldstow, these projects are helping to create neighbourhoods in which people are proud of.

Looking ahead, major developments in Grimsby, Scotter and Scunthorpe will kick off this year, driving our commitment to growth and delivering more homes for social rent.

But being a landlord is just the start. We invested £7.7 million in 2025 to upgrade kitchens, bathrooms, roofs, windows and more, making homes modern, safer, warmer and more comfortable. We are also leading the way on sustainability, on track to exceed our target of 88.5% of their homes at EPC rating C or above, aiming for over 90% by April.

Through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, 203 homes have also received energy efficiency improvements, helping tenants save money and reduce carbon emissions.

Supporting people through tough times has continued to be a priority. Our Hardship Fund has helped around 200 people with rent credits, vouchers and essential household items.

Behind those numbers are real stories, like one tenant who secured Universal Credit and increased their income by £1,000 a month, or the family escaping domestic abuse who now have a safe space.

Our homelessness service supported 66 vulnerable individuals over the last 12 months, with 68% moving into secure accommodation.

Employment and training has been another big focus, with hundreds of clients and tenants accessing support, completing training and moving into sustainable work.

Mental health services have reached over 170 people, and volunteer opportunities have been on the up with one client, Robert Suma who lives with cerebral palsy, saying his placement was the ‘perfect fit’ and he’s now confident to apply for jobs.

Our community hubs have been buzzing with activity, from warm meals to over 50 people a week and events which hundreds have attended, to projects to stop smoking and strengthened partnerships with agencies including the Police and local councils.

We’ve given out thousands of tickets to local sporting clubs such as Scunthorpe United, Doncaster Rovers and Lincoln City football clubs as well as Scunthorpe Rugby Club. Ashleigh, a single mother who benefitted said the initiative ‘helps families like mine feel included and gives us the chance to enjoy quality time together without the financial pressure’.

Our community grants project awarded £35,000 to 27 grounds and we’ve continued social value projects including growing fresh produce at ourallotment.

Reflecting on the year, Steve Hepworth, Chief Executive here at Ongo, said: “2025 has been a special year of growth and real impact. I feel like this year we’ve really taken time to refocus on what matters to tenants, making huge improvements to our repairs services and making sure our core services are where they need to be, so that we can deliver on the rest.

“We’ve built homes, yes, but more importantly we’ve built hope, opportunity, and stronger communities. Everything we’ve achieved, from supporting people through financial or mental health struggles, to helping them into work, is down to the incredible support of our colleagues, customers, and partners.

“Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re making a difference that goes far beyond housing, and for that I’m extremely proud.”

As we look to 2026, our focus remains the same, creating homes and communities where people can thrive. We’d like to thank everyone who has helped make this possible and look forward to another year of making a difference.

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