ABOUT THE SOCIETY
BHSE is a "not for profit" housing provider with charitable status. The Society was formed in 1944 by Alderman Jabez Richards (a former Mayor of Bournemouth), to meet the housing and support needs of the older people of Bournemouth following the Second World War.
Since that time, the Society has prospered and thrived and has an excellent reputation as a provider of high quality flats and support services at affordable rents.
WHAT IS OUR AIM?
Our basic aim has not changed since the Society was formed - to provide good quality affordable accommodation and support to people over 55, who have a connection with Bournemouth. We strive to promote positive images of older people, and offer a "home for life" in a comfortable and community orientated environment.
HOW DO WE WORK?
The work of the Society is governed by Shareholders and a Board of Management, all of whom have a variety of suitable skills and serve in an entirely voluntary capacity. 25% of Board vacancies are reserved for residents and are voted on by residents. This ensures the views of residents are considered at the highest level. The day-to-day work of the Society is carried out by paid staff, covering all the administration, finance, property and resident services.
ROLE OF A SHAREHOLDER
A shareholder receives a copy of the Society's Annual Report and is entitled to attend and vote at the AGM. They can also stand for election to the Board of Management if they wish. The sum of £1 is required to be paid. As a "not for profit" organisation, shareholders to not receive a financial dividend when the Society performs well! Shareholders' liability in the (exceedingly unlikely) scenario of losses is limited to £1.
It is crucial to the Society's ongoing success that we maintain an up to date register of shareholders; people with strong connection and loyalty to the borough of Bournemouth, or an interest in the welfare of older people, whose motives are altruistic and who wish to support an organisation with such noble origins and a dynamic future, which contributes so much to the lives of older people in Bournemouth.
ROLE OF THE BOARD
The Board decide the overall policy and strategy of the Society and monitor staff performance and customer satisfaction.
If you are interested in becoming a Shareholder or a Board member of BHSE, to be part of our ongoing success story for the future, please submit a brief CV with your reasons for applying and what you feel you can bring to the organisation to info@bhse.org.uk.
The Society is regulated by the Homes and Community Agency and the Tenant Services Authority (as a Registered Provider) and the Financial Services Authority (as an Industrial and Provident Society). BHSE is also a fully accredited provider of housing related support for Bournemouth Borough Council Supporting People and is also a member of the National Housing Federation and the Sheltered Housing Network. See links tab at top of this page to access their contact details.
EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY POLICY
Other than our founding objectives (to provide for older people with a connection to Bournemouth who are in need of our services), BHSE is committed to treat everyone (whether customer, supplier, applicant or employee) completely equally regardless of gender, disability, race, ethnic origin, sexual orientation or faith and will meet all our legal obligations in doing so.
* We strive continually to make our buildings and services as accessible as possible.
Contact us for specific details of each scheme.