CEO John Verge celebrates his 20 year work anniversary at Golden Lane Housing.

John continues to be a driving force working alongside colleagues and partners to develop and innovate housing solutions to change the lives of people with a learning disability.

What does the work anniversary mean to John?

I am immensely proud and thankful to have worked for Golden Lane Housing for the past 20 years. Over that time I have seen the real difference our work in providing housing solutions at the heart of communities makes for people with a learning disability and their families.

I joined a young, energetic housing charity set up by Mencap back in 2000 that clearly wanted to make a lasting impact and tackle the huge shortage of quality supported housing for people with a learning disability. I recently found a copy of the job advert and I can see why the role first attracted me. It described a charity that put tenant’s welfare and satisfaction first, and asked for applicants with a caring nature. Importantly, we continue to place the welfare and satisfaction of our tenants at the heart of our work today.

There have been so many highlights over the last 20 years. Working with individuals and their families to deliver bespoke housing solutions that vitally meet their needs. Seeing people move into adapted homes close to family after years of living in poor institutional settings. Leading the sector in raising innovative social impact finance, and continuing to campaign for adequate welfare funding in supported housing.

Staff continue to be the beating heart of Golden Lane Housing and I’ve had the true privilege to work with some inspirational, values driven colleagues who have supported us house over 4,500 people and become one of the leading specialist housing associations.

There have been numerous events bringing tenants, staff, trustees and partners together to support our continued growth and development and importantly celebrate and share our impact. A real delight for me was co-hosting with tenants our 20th anniversary celebrations two years ago. It brought together so many of the Golden Lane Housing family from across the UK to celebrate our work and share our future plans.

The need to provide new housing and ensure the wellbeing of our tenants is as great as ever. I am lucky to work with such a wonderful group of staff and trustees who continue to inspire me with their passion and commitment to transform lives.