Direct Works Group highlights a number of upcoming events that focus on key issues such as skills shortages, Awaab’s Law and efficiency in social housing repairs and maintenance.
Russell Thompson, CEO of Direct Works Group, tells us more:
“As a sector we’re under immense pressure. Preparing for upcoming legislation changes whilst still trying to do the ‘day job’ in delivering a good, cost-effective housing maintenance programme. It’s tough for everyone, which is why we’re working with the Direct Works Group network to support several different events over the coming months.
Operative Efficiency in June
“In partnership with Procure Plus, Direct Works (part of Direct Works Group) is hosting the first of a series of Round Table events to discuss Operative Efficiency & Working Smarter on Wednesday 4th June. Efficiency is a running theme for the Group this year and this event provides the opportunity collaborate on how we can break down barriers to efficiency.
“This first event is being held in the Northeast, with Thirteen Group as host. Steph Lawlor, Director of Repairs & Maintenance at Thirteen Group, will be our keynote speaker, discussing Industry Trends & Challenges, leading to a round table discussion. Get in touch with Matt Jarrett via matt.jarratt@procure-plus.com or Russell Thompson via russell.thompson@direct-works.co.uk if you would like to join us on 4th June, or to register your interest in us bringing this event coming to your area.
Awaab’s Law: Transforming Social Housing’s Approach to Damp and Mould in June
“Awaab’s Law is an important change in law will improve the quality of life for millions – but are we prepared for it to take effect?
“TIC Mould control is hosting an event around Housing 2025 (on Wednesday 25th June) that seeks to answer that very question, discussing the ways in which we currently address damp and mould, the challenges we are facing as individuals and businesses, and how we can each offer improved safety for our teams, and our residents. Direct Works is pleased to be supporting this event, that’s being held at such a critical time, and I will be amongst the speakers.
“Tickets to this event are free but limited; definitely one to build into your Housing 2025 itinerary: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/awaabs-law-transforming-social-housings-approach-to-damp-and-mould-tickets-1359880040809?
The AI Opportunity in July
“Our next Direct Works seminar is online on Wednesday 2nd July. Building on our March event and the Procure Plus joint roundtable, we’ll be exploring operative efficiency & the AI opportunity to be smarter, faster, better. This event is free to members and invites will be circulated shortly. If you’re interested but not a member of Direct Works, get in touch with membership@direct-works.co.uk to discuss attendance options.
Workforce Challenges in July
“Aimed at collaboratively shaping the future of learning and development in housing, we’re delighted to be working with PfP Thrive to host an open day event at their new training academy in Derby. The event, which is happening on Tuesday 9th July is aimed at Housing Repairs and Maintenance professionals and leaders who are interested in exploring how we can collaborate to grow talent, share skills, and support progression across this area of the sector. We’ll also get a guided tour of the new training facility and meet the team behind it. Register your interest: https://bit.ly/4mholzH
Better Asset Management
“Following its inaugural meeting in March, Direct Asset (part of Direct Works Group) will be holding a series of meetings around their key theme of the shifting landscape in asset management, touching on navigating regulation & safety, talent development and mentoring, and investing in the future for Net Zero, Major Works & Long-Term Strategy. Direct Asset is actively seeking new members and people looking to be part of the steering committee for this new group. Get in touch with membership@direct-works.co.uk if you’d like to get involved.
October Gathering
“The last date for your diary, for now, is the final Direct Works seminar of the year, taking place on the 9th of October in Birmingham. We’ll be bringing our work on operative efficiency to a conclusion during this final session, exploring workforce challenges and how we can grow talent, share skills, and support progression across this area of the sector. Again, this is event is a key part of the Direct Works membership and it’s free for members to attend. Visit https://direct-works.co.uk/become-a-member/ for more information on becoming a member of Direct Works and get access to these events and updates firsthand.
“All these events are designed to support the sector in overcoming some of the key challenges we’re collectively facing. We hope you can join us.”
For more information about Direct Works Group, visit: https://directworksgroup.co.uk/
