Not-for-profit landlord believe housing has welcomed four new participants to its Board Trainee Programme, which supports the development of future leaders and aims to strengthen diversity in housing and public sector governance.
This is the second cohort to join the programme, which gives people from all backgrounds hands-on insight into how boards operate.
Over 18 months, trainees will take part in structured development, technical training, and learn how major decisions are made at one of the largest housing associations in the northeast of England.
The programme supports people with the passion and potential to make a difference, helping a broader range of voices move towards future non-executive roles. It aims to build confidence and strategic thinking, equipping trainees the insight and experience they need to take their next step in the housing or wider third sector.
Since completing their training in December 2024, several members of the first cohort have already taken up board roles, highlighting the programme’s impact.
Louise Taylor, Executive Director of Governance and Strategy, said: “The more diverse the thought and experience around a board table, the more informed the decisions and the stronger those boards become.
“That’s why we’re so pleased to welcome our four new trainees to our latest Board Trainee Programme. Each brings valuable insight and lived experience, and we’re looking forward to learning from them as much as supporting their development.
“The programme helps participants build confidence, capability and a clear understanding of how boards work, preparing them for future non-executive roles. And hopefully they go on to contribute to boards across our region and beyond; helping organisations make the best decisions for the customers and communities they serve.”
This cohort offers a wealth of lived experience, professional insight and a shared commitment to improving social housing.
Pauline Hardman joins the programme as a believe housing customer, former member of the organisation’s Customer Voices panel, and a previous employee. She is also active in national housing conversations through roles with the Housing Ombudsman’s Tenant Panel, the Stop Social Housing Stigma Campaign and Smart Works, where she is an ambassador and client champion.
Beverley Dean MBE, also a tenant, brings senior leadership experience from the technology sector and has worked for charity and not-for-profit organisations. She was awarded an MBE in 2018 for services to exports in educational technology for people with learning disabilities.
Elizabeth Whelan works at Stonewater Housing Association, where she leads service improvement. She has a background in research, economics and social policy, and holds a Level 4 CIH housing qualification.
Jordan Harlow has worked at Northern Trains since February 2022 and is currently an accessibility improvement manager. She has a background in customer experience and previous management experience in retail.
From Tuesday 27 January 2026, Ofgem (the energy regulator) will become the official regulator for all heat networks.
Read in full
If you live in a believe housing home and haven’t been working for a while, now could be a good time to look at the support available.
Read in full
believe housing and Karbon Homes have worked together to unlock government funding, paving the way for 115 new social and affordable homes in the northeast of England.
Read in full
Managing household costs can be challenging, especially during the colder months. If you’re worried about heating bills or need help with your finances, there are several types of support available.
Read in full
