The housing association’s Annual General Meeting heard how the team had supported 318 households across Ayrshire to gain benefits they were entitled to but were not claiming.

The Wellbeing Team helps tenants with Information and advice regarding benefits entitlement, assistance applying and with disputes, debt management and household budgeting.

“With the ongoing cost of living crisis a cost our Wellbeing team are a crucial resource in helping our customers access what they are entitled to and in helping them make the most of their money,” said Ayrshire Housing’s chief executive, Lesley-Anne Junner.

The meeting heard a progress report on the first year of the association’s 2025 to 2030 Business Plan, which has people, properties, places and processes as priorities. Board Chair Georgina Dawson reported progress across all four areas. 

“We have continued to invest heavily in our homes. During the year, we strengthened our understanding of the condition of our housing stock through ongoing surveys and planning work, helping us ensure our homes remain warm, safe and well maintained.

“We completed innovative Net Zero retrofit projects in Crosshill and Barr, supported by Scottish Government funding, helping to improve energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact,” he said.

“At the same time, we continued to grow. Work commenced on 32 new affordable homes at Green Street in Ayr, a development that will provide much-needed housing and contribute to meeting local need while supporting our longer-term growth ambitions.”

Ayrshire Housing was established in 2003 through the merger of Carrick Housing Association and South Ayrshire Homes. Since then it has grown rapidly to become one of the area’s leading providers of high quality, affordable rented housing, managing 1,700 homes in both urban and rural environments.

“One of the highlights of the year was the completion of our independent Customer Satisfaction Survey,” added Lesley-Anne.

“The results were extremely encouraging and provided clear evidence that the investments we have made in customer service and tenant engagement are making a real difference to the quality of our customers’ lives.

“Overall satisfaction with Ayrshire Housing rose to 91%, while satisfaction with communication increased to an impressive 99%. Participation opportunities were also rated at 99%, and satisfaction with repairs increased significantly to 88%. These are achievements that everyone connected with Ayrshire Housing can be proud of.”

Auditors speaking at the AGM approved the association’s accounts.