What’s the impact of a social home?
Home is where life begins. It’s more than just a roof over your head, it’s a place to feel safe, to grow and to build your future. Social housing isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about creating spaces that offer security, affordability and the freedom to truly make it your own - something private renting often can’t offer.
And we know that social homes don’t just impact the person in them, there’s a much wider benefit in improved health and wellbeing, fewer people facing the uncertainty of temporary housing, less pressure on government and public services and better education outcomes for children.
Our homes transform lives, strengthen communities and create better futures, that’s why we’re so passionate about growing and building more homes to help more people.
Our new campaign focuses on the Impact of Home and over the next few weeks we’ll be spotlighting real stories from across our communities, hearing directly from customers like you about how their home has transformed their lives.
Follow along, get inspired, and see how home can be the start of something extraordinary.
Impact of Home: A home full of love
We’re proud that our homes create safe and welcoming foundations where people can thrive.
Eleven years ago, Debbie took a leap toward independence. She moved out of her parents’ house with her two young boys, searching for a home that could offer stability, space and the freedom to grow. That’s when she became a Vico Homes customer and everything began to change.
Since then, Debbie’s life has flourished. She met her husband, welcomed a daughter, and built a loving family of five. Her home has been the backdrop to it all.
Debbie said: “My home gave me the freedom to build the life I dreamed of. It’s where my children feel safe, where we laugh, relax and make memories every day.”
For Debbie and her family, home is more than a place, it’s a feeling. It’s the warm hug from her children at the end of a hard day at work, cuddling up together on the sofa or cooking a delicious meal.
Debbie’s story is a powerful reminder that home can be life changing. It’s not just about having a roof over your head; it’s about having the space to build a family and a future
Impact of Home: A home that changed everything
Back in 1991, Alec became a Vico Homes customer. Originally from Pontefract, he’d spent a decade in Leeds, where life took a difficult turn. After facing homelessness, Alec’s world shifted overnight when he was granted custody of his newborn son at just one day old.
He didn’t just need a place to live. He needed a fresh start. A safe, stable home where he could raise his son and rebuild his life. That’s exactly what he found with us.
For the past 34 years, Alec’s home has been the heart of his journey. It’s where he raised his son as a single dad, filled the rooms with love, laughter, and the occasional meow from Princess, his pampered cat. It’s where he found his footing again.
When Alec was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, his home became even more vital, it’s a place of comfort, independence and peace. With his son now living just 10 minutes away, support is never far.
Alec said: “My home gave me the space to rebuild my life, raise my son and face the challenges of life. It’s not just where I live - it’s where I found myself again.”
Today, Alec’s home is a warm, welcoming hub. Friends and family know they’re always welcome to pop in for a cuppa and a chat. It’s a place full of heart and hope.
Alec’s story shows us that a home isn’t just about walls and windows. It’s about second chances, new beginnings, and the strength to keep going. Because when you have the right home, anything is possible.
Impact of Home: A home that feels just right
At every stage of life, having the right home makes all the difference. Whether you're just starting out, raising a family, or embracing a new chapter, we’re here to help you find a place that truly fits.
For nearly 40 years, Jayne made memories in her three bedroom home in Wakefield. It’s where she raised her children and built a life. But as her family grew up and moved on, the house began to feel too big, and not quite right for the life she was living now.
Jayne knew it was time for a change. With our support, she found her perfect fit: a beautiful, cosy apartment at Merrifield Manor.
She said: “I’d been looking to move to a smaller home for a while and, honestly, I would never have expected I’d choose an apartment but as soon as a I saw photos of Merrifield Manor I knew this was somewhere I could call home. My apartment is just so cosy and the right size for me. That’s what everyone says when they visit, that it’s just beautiful here.
“Living on my own in a bigger home had made me nervous, especially at night. I feel really secure here, it was instant peace of mind.”
Now happily settled, Jayne takes comfort in knowing her former home is ready for a new family to grow into - just like hers once did.
Our homes should evolve with us. Because home isn’t just a place, it’s where life happens – whether that’s raising a family or enjoying retirement.
The Impact of Home: Providing security and room to grow
Home is the starting place for every journey, family and person. We’re building more than houses - we’re building futures.
Denise knows this firsthand. Her family used to live in a cramped, aging two-bedroom flat. With three growing children, space was tight and repairs were constant. But four years ago, everything changed when Denise moved into a brand-new home with Vico Homes.
Denise said: “Our old home needed a lot of work and there wasn’t enough space for all of us. Here, there’s room for my family to grow. I know my tenancy is secure, and we even got lucky with a bigger garden for my children to play.
“My home means everything to me. It’s security, family, and a place to be together.”
We believe every family deserves that feeling. That’s why we’re committed to providing 1,500 new affordable homes across the north in the next three years. Because when people have a place to call home, they have a place to dream, to grow, and to thrive.
Impact of home: A place that’s yours
We’re proud to offer places that feel like yours from day one. A home isn’t just bricks and mortar, it’s a place where new chapters can begin.
Over a year ago, Julie was homeless and everything changed when she got the call to say she was being offered a flat.
Julie said: “It wa
s such a relief when I was offered my home. I could feel the weight come off my shoulders – I was going to have somewhere to call home.
“A home means everything and I’m really thankful we have that now. Being homeless can have a massive effect on you mentally as well as physically, but a home is more than just a roof. It’s what you make of it too. You can have it how you want it. I can now use it as a stepping stone to be where I want to be in the next chapter of my life.”
Julie’s story is a reminder of how important it is to have a place to call your own and how your own front door can open so many more opportunities.
The Impact of Home: A fresh start
We’re proud that our homes provide so many of our customers with the opportunity to make a fresh start.
After a family separation, Tony moved into his daughter’s home in Leeds but needed a place of his own - somewhere affordable, safe and close to work. In 2017, Tony became a Vico Homes customer and now lives in one of our homes in the city centre, the perfect location for him with everything he needs on his doorstep. 
Living in the city has made Tony’s life much easier, he’s got shops and transport links within walking distance, giving him independence and a buzzing social life. He’s found friends, confidence and community.
When he lost his job as a Machine Operator in 2024, we helped him retrain, rebuild his confidence and as a result he’s now got a permanent role with us.
Tony said: “Having a safe and secure home gave me the stability I needed to make a fresh start after a difficult time. Now with a home I’m proud of and a career I enjoy, I feel like my life has truly turned a corner.”
The Impact of Home: Being part of a vibrant community
Natalie grew up in Pontefract, but life changed when her parents split up and she moved to Skegness with her mum. At just 15, she became homeless and spent years without a place to truly call her own. 
Fast forward a few years and Natalie moved back to West Yorkshire ready to start her new chapter and became a Vico Homes customer in 2008. With her husband, they built a family and when baby number four was on the way, they knew it was time for a bigger home. They found the perfect home with room for their growing family to fill with love, laughter and memories.
Natalie said: “Moving into our current home was the best decision we’ve ever made.” Because not only did it give them space and stability, but it also came with a warm and welcoming community.
After years of instability, Natalie now has a safe and comfortable home her family can thrive in surrounded by lovely neighbours and community spirit.
From homelessness to a safe and happy home filled with love, laughter and support, Natalie’s story shows how being part of a vibrant community makes you feel right at home.
The Impact of Home: An anchor in good times and bad
Frank moved into his home 63 years ago when he was newly married and with a young baby.
He settled his family only minutes from the house his parents had lived in when he was a boy. That closeness to his roots gave him not only familiarity but also the reassurance of knowing his family had a safe and stable place to grow.
Over the years, his home has adapted to modern life, but its role as a foundation for his wellbeing has never changed.
Today, the impact of having a social home is clearer than ever. Frank told us how it continues to shape his life, providing comfort and stability even as he faces challenges with his health and the sad loss of his wife two years ago.
Frank said: “My home means everything to me, especially at the moment. I’ve been in this house long enough to remember when we had a little hot plate, when there were gas fires in the bedrooms and everything like that. I’ve seen it change over the years and I’ve seen a lot of change while I’ve been here.
“I can’t get out so much now, I have to be taken places which has been a bit of a shock for me. Last year, I got very sick, I was in and out of hospital right up to April that year with various things and I actually passed away and had to be brought back.
“I’ve got my grandsons who live with me, they’re a blessing to be honest. Without them and the rest of the family it would be really difficult for me, especially after my wife passed away.
“But I keep going, I’m still here and this is still my home. And I’m proud to say it is and has been for so long.”
The Impact of Home: A home that gives peace of mind
Two years after becoming Vico Homes customers, Sonia and Mick are still loving every moment, especially the joy of having a garden they can truly call their own. Sonia shared that, after the loss of her mum, the move came at just the right time. She told us they feel safer, happier and more at ease without the worry of stairs.
Now, alongside their lively little terrier, the couple enjoy pottering around their garden, soaking up the tranquillity and freedom of their new lifestyle. 
Sonia said: “My mum lived close to us and so when we lost her, moving away was a fresh start away from any reminders of my grief. We’ve lived here two years now and we feel a big weight has been lifted. We live in a lovely peaceful area, and we love being in our garden.
“When we first moved here, I immediately began to sleep better, our wellbeing is so much better, the stairs were a challenge for many reasons including health and we both feel we can relax now.”
The Impact of Home: Safety, friendship and freedom
Home offers different things to different people and our independent living schemes are perfect for those who want to still live alone but the security and peace of mind of having support on hand if it’s needed.
Back in 2014, Vanessa was ready for a change. After living with her mum, she knew it was time to find a home of her own that offered not just independence, but the security she needed. Living completely alone wasn’t the right option for Vanessa but when she discovered one of our independent living schemes, her life was transformed. 
Her new home gave her the independence she longed for and so much more! Vanessa quickly built friendships with her neighbours and a social life that sparkles. Afternoon bingo lights up her week and when her neighbour sets up his DJ decks for a monthly music evening in the shared lounge, the whole community comes alive – dancing, laughing and enjoying life together.
With beautiful walks on her doorstep and easy ways to get around, Vanessa has the best of both worlds. Whether it’s connecting with nature or heading out for a shopping trip, her home is the perfect base for both relaxation and adventure.
Vanessa said: “Moving here was the best decision I’ve ever made. I have my own space and independence, but I never feel alone. There’s always a friendly face and I feel safe knowing support is there if I need it.”