London Borough of Hillingdon

With Heathrow airport within its boundaries the London Borough of Hillingdon is one of the main gateways to inward immigration to the UK and as such has an untypically diverse client group. The demands on housing and related services are probably one of the most challenging and complex within the UK.

Commencing in August 2002, the private sector leasing contract with the London Borough of Hillingdon was one of the first contracts of its kind to utilise Housing Benefit subsidy to fund the provision and management of properties in the private sector and effectively end the use of B&B accommodation.

One year after accepting the first property onto the scheme, Orchard & Shipman had processed 2,186 landlord enquiries and had moved 486 families into self-contained flats and houses. Working with Orchard & Shipman the London Borough of Hillingdon was able to get all families with children out of Bed & Breakfast by April 2003 - one year in advance of the national target set by the ODPM (Office of the Deputy Prime Minister).

In August 2003, the partnership between London Borough of Hillingdon and Orchard & Shipman was also cited as an example of ‘Good Practice’ by the ODPM:

“Orchard & Shipman was able to demonstrate a solid knowledge of the local property market, with property management experience, an excellent database of contacts and a sound financial business.”

- ‘Reducing B&B use and tackling homelessness – What’s working: A Good Practice Handbook’ pages 64 & 65 published by The Homelessness Directorate, ODPM.

Orchard & Shipman achieved the ceiling of 900 properties set by the Council by January 2005. The Hillingdon contract was due to run for a minimum of 5 years and was extended in 2007 by a further 3 years. In addition, Orchard & Shipman were successful in tendering for another PSL contract with the authority, and now procure and manage over 1,000 properties in total. This second contract involved the successful novation of the PSL portfolio from the previous RSL provider.

Orchard & Shipman work closely with LB Hillingdon in developing working practices designed to promote an efficient partnership between both the tenants and the local authority.