UP to 145 jobs are at risk at social housing group Torus, which includes Warrington based Golden Gates Housing, with a need to make £17 million savings following the Chancellor’s July budget.
While delivering great news for social housing tenants who will see their rent payments reduce by 1% year on year over the next four years from next April, it means housing associations throughout the UK, including Golden Gates Housing Trust, will now also see their rental income reduce each year.
As part of the Torus group, rather than an individual company, GGHT is in a better position than many to withstand the financial implications of the budget.
However, over the next four years, in line with the rent reduction, savings of around £17m need to be made.
As well as Golden Gates, Torus also oversees the Helena Partnership social housing group based in St Helens.
A group spokesperson said: “Operational costs are being reviewed across the entire group and inevitably changes will be made. Approximately 145 jobs are at risk across the whole of Torus and Voluntary Redundancy is being offered. We are working closely and openly with Trade Unions throughout.
“Over the coming weeks we will be talking in more detail to our key stakeholders, including Warrington Borough Council.
“The aspirations of the Torus board remain as strong as ever and the provision of more affordable homes remains central to our vision.”
Golden Gates has 387 staff, while Helena Housing has 549 and Torus 24. No particular group will be targeted and staff are continually being engaged.
