Places for People and Elim Housing have confirmed they are in discussions over a potential merger that would see Elim and its 900 homes across Bristol and Gloucestershire join the Places for People Group later this year.
The proposals remain subject to a customer consultation and due diligence checks. Elim customers are being invited to share their views and ask questions as part of the ongoing consultation process.
Greg Reed, Group CEO of Places for People, said the move reflects the alignment of both organisations’ missions and values. “Places for People is really pleased to have started merger discussions with Elim Housing,” he said. “Both organisations have a proud history of supporting the City of Bristol and wider operating areas with the provision of social homes, as well as wider support such as homeless prevention. There is a great synergy in our missions and values as organisations and this relationship offers a really exciting opportunity for us to go further together.”
Elim Housing Chief Executive Paul Smith said the potential merger comes as the organisation seeks to safeguard and expand its services in a challenging operating environment. “Elim is an ambitious organisation with aspirations to deliver high quality homes and housing and support to a wide range of Customers,” he said. “However, the current economic environment has made it increasingly difficult for us to achieve our ambitions, including the improvement of our existing properties and the development of new projects.
“In order to strengthen and sustain the homes and services Elim provides, we considered the potential for Elim to merge with another organisation. After considering our options, we chose to progress with Places for People as our preferred partner. We believe it is an organisation with the scale, resource and a suitable geographical, service and cultural alignment to deliver hugely positive outcomes for all of Elim’s customers.”
