Karbon targets ‘greater impact’ with partnership

A North East housing association has strengthened its commitment to regional economic growth and community investment by becoming the latest Partner member of the North East Chamber of Commerce.

Karbon Homes has joined the Chamber partnership, bringing together two organisations focused on creating jobs, developing skills, supporting the transition to net-zero and ensuring communities benefit from economic growth.

Formed in 2017, Karbon owns and manages around 34,000 homes across the North East and Yorkshire and supports more than 60,000 customers.

The organisation employs more than 1000 people, builds hundreds of new homes each year and invests millions of pounds through regional supply chains.

Paul Fiddaman, chief executive of the Karbon Group, said: “We see housing as a real driver of inclusive economic growth. 

“Building and maintaining homes creates jobs in construction, trades and housing, as well as a wide range of back-office functions, while our investments support businesses right across the region.

“Skills are also critical. 

“We’re committed to helping our customers and local communities develop the skills needed across our sector, strengthening both our workforce and the wider regional supply chain.

“We’re very proud to be a North East business and becoming a Chamber Partner gives us the opportunity to amplify the voices of our customers and colleagues and contribute to conversations that influence regional and national policy, shaping the future of our region.”

Its latest partnership comes as Karbon continues a significant programme of housing investment.

It is part of a consortium alongside believe housing, Bernicia, Durham Aged Miners’ Housing Association and Livin that recently secured £350 million of Government funding to develop more than 2500 affordable homes across the region over the coming years.

Karbon is also investing in improving the energy efficiency of its existing portfolio, with plans for all its homes to reach EPC Band C by 2030 and net zero by 2050.

Alongside housing, the organisation provides employment support, financial advice, sheltered housing and community programmes.

Its recently launched Karbon Foundation will further expand that work, focusing on improving social and financial wellbeing and supporting community investment.

Through its new Chamber partnership, Karbon will work alongside businesses and organisations across the region on shared priorities designed to support a stronger and more inclusive North East economy.

Paul added: “We already collaborate with many Chamber Partners and have seen the value those partnerships can deliver. 

“Together with our contractors and suppliers we helped unlock £5.7 million of social value through apprenticeships, community investment and charitable initiatives. 

“We’re excited to build on those relationships and create even greater impact across the North East.”

John McCabe, chief executive at the North East Chamber of Commerce, added: “Karbon Homes is an organisation that demonstrates how economic success and social impact go hand in hand. 

“Its investment in quality homes, local jobs, skills and community wellbeing reflects many of the priorities set out in our Unlocking the North East Economy policy plan.

“We’re delighted to welcome Karbon Homes as a Chamber Partner and look forward to working together to strengthen regional collaboration, champion inclusive growth and ensure the North East remains a place where people and businesses can thrive.”

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