What is a Housing Association?
Housing associations (also called Registered Providers or Registered Social Landlords) are not-for-profit organisations regulated by Homes England and the Regulator of Social Housing. They own and manage social and affordable homes, often working in partnership with local councils and the NHS. Unlike local councils, housing associations operate independently and can set their own tenancy policies.
How to Find a Housing Association
The Housing Ombudsman and Regulator of Social Housing maintain lists of Registered Providers. You can also search the National Housing Federation's member directory at housing.org.uk. Local councils will also be able to tell you which housing associations operate in your area and whether they accept direct applications.
Major Housing Associations in Staffordshire
Several major housing associations operate across Staffordshire, including Aspire Housing (based in Newcastle-under-Lyme), Midland Heart, Bromford Housing, and Platform Housing Group. Each has its own application process, allocation policy, and areas of operation. Axient Housing works with many of these organisations as a referral and accommodation partner.
Major Housing Associations in Cheshire
Key housing associations in Cheshire include Onward Homes, Orbit Group, ForHousing, and Guinness Partnership. They operate across Cheshire East, Cheshire West, Halton, and Warrington. Working with your local council's housing team is the best way to find out which associations have availability in your area.
How Axient Housing Works with Housing Associations
Axient Housing Limited works as a complementary provider alongside housing associations. We receive referrals from housing association partners, provide accommodation for individuals on housing association waiting lists, and work together to ensure appropriate placements. If you are referred to us by a housing association, the placement process is straightforward and supported.