Posted 25/05/2021

Somewhere to Feel at Home - Key Worker Accommodation

The vital - and often life-saving - services delivered by NHS staff and other frontline workers has been brought to the fore this past year because of the Covid-19 pandemic. These workers make a huge difference in our communities day-in, day-out and at Swan, we aim to make their lives a bit easier by providing them with somewhere to feel at home.

We have three Key Worker Accommodation Schemes that have been specially developed in partnership with the NHS to provide high-quality, affordable rented housing to NHS key workers and those working in the emergency services and public sector. Our schemes are conveniently located in Colchester, Broomfield, and Oldchurch, with the former two on site at their respective hospitals, and the latter a five-minute walk from Queen's Hospital and the shuttle bus to King George's Hospital.

All accommodation is fully furnished to a high standard, and ranges from studio and one bedroom flats to shared accommodation and three bedroom family houses.

 “It was an amazing experience to live there,” one customer said. “The accommodation was neat, tidy, clean and furnished with nicely maintained furniture. All the appliances were in good working condition and all the repairs were timely. The housekeeping and administration staff were very cooperative and accommodated our concerns. It was my first home in the UK, where I could always enjoy my extra bit of sleep in the morning and not think about having to commute for work.” 

During the Covid-19 pandemic, this accommodation has been vital for NHS key workers by keeping staff on site, reducing commute time and providing a comfortable home for those wishing to isolate from shielding family members, demonstrating how Swan improve lives and communities. Everyday.

“Thank you for all your help this year,” said Chris Randall, Associate Director of Finance – Financial Governance. “Your accommodation and support meant that we could keep nurses and doctors in the hospital to save patients’ lives; so much more to us than just four walls.”

The key worker accommodation goes beyond simply being temporary housing; Swan provides excellent customer care to ensure that it becomes a great place to call home.

“This flat was just perfect for me,” one customer said. “It was reasonably priced and excellently furnished. Great facilities and very, very secure. I will miss living here. I have made lots of fond memories in this flat. I am grateful for the efficiency at which Swan housing responded to my requests, whether it was for repairs or extra amenities.” 

“It’s sad that we had to leave,” one departing customer added. “On behalf of my wife and I, we would like to say a very special thank you to you guys at the Swan Housing Association. It’s been nearly two years since we got to know you guys and you  are all truly amazing individuals. You all made us feel like family; so kind and friendly with great customer service. We want to thank you all for everything you have done for us, you will always remain close to our hearts.”

To find out more about our key worker accommodation visit, including the current properties that we have available to rent, click here.