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.”
The Impact of Home: A home where repairs don’t cost you
After losing her husband at just 38, Doreen raised her two boys on her own with grit, determination and love. She built a life for her family, but years later when her sons had grown up and moved out, the weight of maintaining her home became too much. Repairs piled up and costs soared making Doreen worry about the future.
That changed in 1988 when Doreen became one of our customers. From day one, she found peace of mind knowing repairs were handled quickly, efficiently and without the hefty bills that can come with being a homeowner.
Now at 98 years old, Doreen lives in one of our high-rise apartments and enjoys the freedom of staying independent. With her mobility scooter, she’s zips off to the shops, the doctors and church, confident her home is always safe and well maintained. 
Doreen said: “Everyone at Vico Homes has been so kind from the Customer Experience Team to the caretakers and tradespeople carrying out repairs on my home. I love where I live and as a landlord Vico Homes acts quickly, kindly and professionally.”
Social homes mean customers like Doreen can live with confidence, not stress. With repairs handled efficiently and no surprise bills to weigh her down, she can enjoy the freedom and focus on what matters most – her independence, community and living well in a home that supports her.
The Impact of Home: Cherishing the small things
After fleeing the war in Syria, Fatima and her family had no home for almost six years, only a tent, and a dream of one day having a house. Through a resettlement programme, she arrived in the UK in October 2018. At Manchester Airport she was greeted by the director of the refugee office and an interpreter, and their warm welcome gave her an immediate sense of safety and belonging.
She said: “I vowed to myself that I would live up to their expectations of me, be loyal, and teach my children to cherish and be faithful to this country that planned our arrival here and created a good life for us.
“I have a memory that has stayed with me throughout my life. When I arrived at this house, my young son was very tired from the journey from Iraq to Turkey and then to Manchester.
“He fell asleep on the bus on the way to Wakefield. When I arrived at my house, it was late at night and he was asleep. He woke up in the morning, and the first question he asked me was, ‘What is this?’. He meant the window and the door because he had lived his whole life in a tent.
“What comforts me most now is knowing my children are safe and their home is beautiful. I truly consider this house my own. I work on it and renovate it; it feels like it belongs to me. I repaint it every year and I love keeping this house clean, it has brought so much joy to my family and me. I will never forget to be grateful for this.”
The Impact of Home: A home that shapes lives
Colin became a Vico Homes customer in 2000 after wanting more independence and the freedom to live the life he chooses.
Colin has Muscular Dystrophy and was looking for a place to relax knowing the care he needs is provided in a safe and secure home of his own.
Colin said: “I was 27 years old when I decided that it was time to leave the family home and start a life of independence and I knew I would have challenges along the way. I was eventually offered a bungalow on an independent living scheme, and it was the start of an exciting new chapter in my life.
“My home has given me independence and helped me learn lots of skills. My home has literally shaped me to be the person I am today.
“My little bungalow means the world to me, I’ve gone through many hard times, but my home has always been my safe space that I can come back to. It enables me to have my care team with me, rather than being in a care home or other facility.
“The best thing about my home is it’s a place where I have security and peace of mind knowing that I have a fantastic landlord who cares about me. My home is a place where I’m building forever memories.”
The Impact of Home: A place to create
Musician Tony made the move to Vico Homes in 2022 after wanting more independence and a solid start to his young adult life. And he’s still loving every moment, especially the joy of having his own space to be himself and do the things he loves.
He said: “This is my first home since leaving my family home. I wanted independence and a solid start to my young adult life. My home has become my place of peace, I’ve grown more secure in myself living here. From managing bills myself, getting the DIY jobs done, and even having a place my family and friends can stay and feel safe, it all means so much to me. It tells me I'm responsible and has given me confidence.
“The best thing about my home is my living room. I'm an artist and my living room is where all the magic happens. Sometimes it looks like a mad scientist lives here and I love that. My own personal space where I can just be me is great.”
The Impact of Home: “home is more than a place, it’s the people”
Jayne’s story with us began in 1982 when she moved into her first home looking for independence at 18. Over the years, her home has been a constant through every stage of her life, from young adulthood to now looking forward to retirement.
What makes her home special isn’t just the bricks and mortar, but the community around her. Jayne lives in a neighbourhood that makes her feel valued, included and supported.
Even though she lives alone, Jayne has never felt lonely. Her neighbours have become friends, always ready to lend a hand. During Covid and illness, their support made all the difference, reminding her that home is more than a place, it’s the people too.
Jayne said: “My home is my sanctuary from the outside world, especially during tough times. I feel safe and joyful living on such a wonderful street, where neighbours always look out for each other.”
The location of her home couldn’t be better. Just a 10-minute walk takes her to work, shops, pubs and cafés giving her the freedom to enjoy life. And behind it all, we’ve been there every step of the way. Repairs are handled quickly and efficiently, giving Jayne peace of mind and saving her from the stress of expensive bills.
For Jayne, home is more than stability it’s pride, peace and belonging.
The Impact of Home: Where freedom begins
A home is more than four walls and a roof. It should be a safe place. A place of opportunities. A place you feel you belong.
Three years ago, Jasmin was looking for just that. Her mental health was suffering, she wanted to be closer to family, in a place she could feel safe, supported and independent. When we offered her a fully accessible bungalow in Pontefract, it was a turning point. The move made an instant difference to Jasmin’s life.
Jasmin said: “My home is my sanctuary - a place where I feel safe, comfortable and independent. It’s adapted to meet my needs as a disabled person, which makes an enormous difference in my daily life. The wet room allows me to wash and move around safely without the fear of slipping or struggling with barriers that most bathrooms have.
“My home is more than just a place to live - it’s a space that supports my wellbeing and enables me to live life on my own terms.”
We know that having a home that suits your needs can mean freedom and independence starts at your front door. A home then becomes a place to thrive.
The Impact of Home: a place to grow
When Jonathan picked up the keys to his first home in July 2025, he wasn’t just stepping into a new space, he was stepping into a new chapter with his partner. After years of navigating challenges with his mental health, their home became the place where everything began to change.
They’ve created a place that feels safe, offers comfort and stability. With his partner by his side, Jonathan has built a home filled with love and the kind of peace that makes it easier to switch off, relax and take care of themselves.
Jonathan said: “Our home shows me every day that I’m growing, I’m capable and I’m never facing life on my own.”
With the support of his partner and their home Jonathan now has the strength to give back. He volunteers six days a week at a local mental health charity, supporting others who are walking a path he understands.
For Jonathan, his home represents more than independence it’s a reminder of how far he’s come, the strength he’s found and the life he’s building with his partner.