Good news stories in August 2026
Dogs Trust Visit Following Summer Event Fundraising
Branksome Hall Drive tenants, along with Housing Services staff members Loraine, Linda and Sara, were invited to Dogs Trust Darlington at Sadberge to present a cheque following the fantastic amount of £1700.00 raised at the recent summer event.
The group was welcomed by Gordon from Dogs Trust, who provided a tour of the centre and shared information about the work carried out to care for dogs awaiting their forever homes.
During the visit, residents learned that the centre could accommodate around 100 dogs. The kennels have been carefully designed to help keep dogs calm and relaxed, with all kennels facing the same direction and barriers in place to reduce stress and prevent reactive dogs from becoming overwhelmed by visitors.
A particular focus of the tour was the importance of animal wellbeing and mental health. Dogs Trust provides enrichment activities throughout the day to keep dogs mentally stimulated and engaged. Enrichment can be found throughout the entire centre, including on the on-site dog walking areas, which are filled with flowers, plants and sensory experiences for the dogs to enjoy. The centre also boasts 15 specialist enrichment areas, designed to encourage play, exploration and positive behaviour.
Residents were interested to hear how sustainability has been incorporated across the site, with recycled materials used for equipment and features such as solar panels helping to reduce the centre's environmental impact.
Cheque presented to The Dog's Trust
Housing Services and tenants at Darlington Dog's Trust
Neasham Engagement Day
The final Summer Engagement Event took place on Tuesday 25 August at the new homes on Neasham Road, next to the Butterfield Park development.
The event welcomed new tenants to the community and gave residents the chance to share their views, raise concerns, and learn more about local services available to them.
The Housing Team were joined by local councillors, Civic Enforcement, and the Move More Team. This allowed residents to access a range of information and speak directly to the organisations present.
One resident said:
"These types of events encourage conversation and help bring people together. As there isn't a specific community hub on the estate, it's important that tenants have opportunities to be heard. For me personally, it was great to speak with Civic Enforcement about some of the concerns I have."
The event was well attended and provided valuable feedback from both new and existing residents. Following its success, more engagement events are being planned for the winter months, including seasonal and Christmas-themed events that will continue to bring the community together.
Housing Services at Neasham Road event
Housing Services at Neasham Road event
Apprentice Recruitment in Housing
We are delighted to be recruiting for two Business Administration Apprenticeships within our busy and dedicated Housing Services team.
These opportunities are ideal for anyone looking to begin their career in business administration while gaining valuable practical experience in a professional environment. You'll work alongside experienced colleagues, develop skills and knowledge that will support your future career.
As part of the apprenticeship, you will work towards an NVQ in Business Administration. This combines workplace learning with a nationally recognised qualification. This "earn while you learn" approach provides hands-on experience and the chance to make a real contribution to the team from day one.
Our apprenticeships offer more than just a qualification. They provide an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills, and gain insight into the housing sector. There is also the potential for future full-time employment for those who successfully complete the programme.
If you're enthusiastic, willing to learn, and looking for a rewarding career, we'd love to hear from you.
Join our Housing Services team and take the first step towards a successful future.
For details on how to apply, please visit our vacancies page. Darlington BC - Current vacancies
Jade has completed her level 3 In Business Administration and has enjoyed her time within Housing Tenancy Management.
Jade said:
‘I was struggling to find what it was I wanted to do, that was when I saw the Apprentice role advertised. Initially I thought due to my age that I would not be allowed to apply however that was far from the case, your age will not stop you and there are many mature apprentices within the council. I am very thankful for the time that I have had in the role alongside the opportunity to do it, it has been very helpful in developing not only my skills but also who I am as a person.
I believe that the skills that I have learnt from the course and being in the office is what led me to be able to secure a full-time role in the council. While I am not staying in my team, I am moving elsewhere in the housing sector and the skills and knowledge that I have learned I can continue to develop in my new role.’
Local Resident Mike Recognised by TPAS for Outstanding Community Contribution
We are delighted to share that Mike has been nominated by the Housing Team and recognised by TPAS (Tenant Participation Advisory Service) for his outstanding and valuable contribution to his local community.
Mike has consistently gone above and beyond to support fellow residents, helping to create a stronger, more connected neighbourhood. Through his dedication, positive attitude and willingness to give his time, he has made a real difference to the lives of those around him.
His commitment to improving the community has not gone unnoticed. The recognition from TPAS highlights the impact of his efforts and celebrates the important role residents play in helping neighbourhoods thrive.
The Housing Team is incredibly proud of Mike's achievement and would like to congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition. His passion, enthusiasm and community spirit continue to inspire others and demonstrate the positive difference one person can make.
Branksome Community Fun Day at Branksome Hall Drive
What an amazing day it was at Branksome Hall Drive for the Summer Community Fun Day, with funds raised in support of the local Dogs Trust in Darlington.
The generosity of residents and visitors was truly outstanding. Housing Manager Linda and Scheme Manager Lorraine were overwhelmed by the support shown and the kind donations received for the day.
There was something for everyone to enjoy, including a tombola, carnival stalls, and a bric-a-brac sale. The Housing Team was on hand to answer tenants' questions, alongside colleagues from the Income Team, Civic, and Lifeline services.
The event also provided a valuable opportunity to engage with residents and gather feedback. It was great to hear from tenants about how safe they feel within the local community and to discuss any issues or concerns they may have had.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, supported the event, and contributed to making the day such a success. The grand total raised was £1700.00. Your generosity will make a real difference to Dogs Trust Darlington.
Housing team at Branksome Hall Drive event
Branksome Hall Drive event
Residents enjoying the event at Branksome Hall Drive
Branksome Hall Drive scheme manager
A New Home, A Better Future for Michelle and Arthur
Moving home can be life-changing. For Michelle and Arthur, moving to Skerne Park has made a huge difference to their daily lives.
They previously lived in a one-bedroom ground floor home in Copley. While the home had served them well, it was no longer meeting their needs. The property was not wheelchair accessible, and the limited space made day-to-day living more difficult.
With support from Housing Officers Amanda and Donna, Michelle and Arthur were able to move to a home that better suited their needs.
Their new home offers the space and accessibility they need both now and in the future. The wider doorways allow easier wheelchair access throughout the property. The extra space has given them more independence and comfort. Importantly, the home has been chosen with their future needs in mind, helping them to live safely and comfortably as circumstances change.
Michelle and Arthur have already noticed the positive impact the move has had on their quality of life, describing it as "life changing."
Michelle and Arthur said:
"Our new home has made such a difference to us. We now have the space we need, and moving around the property is much easier thanks to the wider doorways. We feel more comfortable, more independent we love seeing the local wildlife and we love it! We’re really grateful for all the help and support we received."
Amanda and Donna, Housing Officers, said:
"We are delighted to see Michelle and Arthur settled into their new home. Finding the right property can make a huge difference to a person's independence and wellbeing. It's wonderful to know they now have a home that meets their current needs while also providing flexibility for the future. We wish them every happiness in their new home at Skerne Park."
This successful move shows how important it is to provide homes that meet residents' individual needs. It also highlights the value of helping tenants find a home where they can thrive, maintain their independence and enjoy a better quality of life.
Community activities at Red Hall are making a real difference, thanks to funding secured through the Red Hall Partnership
Stacey, who is part of the Red Hall Partnership, has helped bring opportunities and activities to local residents. The funding has been a fantastic boost for the community. It has given children and young people the chance to take part in a variety of activities during the school holidays.
The holiday activities has helped children stay active, make new friends, and take part in a range of enjoyable sessions. Parents have welcomed the programme, knowing their children have positive and safe activities to enjoy during the break.
The good news is that the support will continue after the summer holidays. A range of after-school events and activities are planned for the coming months.
Stacey and the wider partnership have made a huge difference to the Red Hall Estate. They have helped to create opportunities for residents and helped bring the community together.
These activities have been made possible through funding from organisations including;
- Sport England
- EE
- Green Hub.
Their support has helped deliver great opportunities for local children, young people and families.
Heighington community event brings residents together
Residents in Heighington recently came together for a successful community event. It celebrated the things that makes a neighbourhood grow and thrive including:
- connecting and meeting new people
- conversation and sharing ideas and experiences
- building a sense of community spirit
The event was made possible with the support of Tenant Panel Member Tanya. Her enthusiasm and commitment helped create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who attended. Her contribution played a large role in making the day such a success.
A range of organisations were on hand to provide advice, information, and support, including
- Civic Enforcement
- Move More
- Lifeline
- Income Housing Options
- Tenant Involvement
- North Star Housing.
Residents had the chance to speak directly with these services, ask questions, and learn more about the support available in their area.
An important part of the event was gathering feedback from residents and they were asked to complete a community survey. This gave them a chance to share their views on their neighbourhood and help shape future improvements to services and local initiatives.
While adults took the chance to have meaningful discussions and access support, children enjoyed a variety of activities, creating a fun and inclusive event for families.
The event showed the strength of the Heighington community, with residents coming together to share ideas, make connections, and celebrate their neighbourhood. It was fantastic to see so many people getting involved and helping to shape the future of their community.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, supported the event, and helped it such a positive experience. Together, we're building stronger communities and ensuring residents' voices are heard.
"Events like this show the power of community. It was wonderful to see residents connecting with each other, engaging with local services, and helping to shape the future of their neighbourhood."
Housing staff with tenants
Housing staff and Tenant's Panel member
Move More activities with the children
Tenant success story
A tenant contacted their Housing Officer, Rachel, to request a stairlift as they were finding it difficult to access their first-floor flat.
After assessing the situation, Rachel found that a stairlift could not be fitted because the staircase was part of a communal area. Rather than stopping there, there, Rachel looked at other housing options that would better meet the tenant's needs, including looking for a suitable ground-floor property.
During this process Rachel identified a home at Ted Fletcher Court. The property offered easier access and the opportunity to become part of a vibrant community. The scheme hosts a range of social activities, including coffee mornings, bingo sessions, and many other events.
The move went ahead successfully, and Mr Martin said that it had "changed his life." His new home allows him to access his property more easily and has also transformed his social life. Through the activities and community spirit at Ted Fletcher Court, Mr Martin has become more socially connected and enjoys a much better quality of life.
'I have recently moved into Ted Fletcher Court and have been made very welcome the people are lovely and made me feel at ease straight away. As a mobility impaired person the facilities are first class and they have given me a new lease or life I feel that I have got a certain degree of independence back and I am so called I had this opportunity to move in such a nice place.'