environmental sustainability

We recognise the impact our business activities can have on the environment and how, as a responsible organisation, we can take significant steps to reduce our carbon footprint.

Driving Environmental Change Across in our communities

As one of the largest housing associations in the north east of England, we know we have a responsibility and opportunities to help tackle climate change and look after our environment.

This ranges from reducing the environmental impact of our business activities and housing to helping customers and staff make informed decisions that fit into their own lives.

Thinking about the planet also supports our core value to do the right thing for our customers, colleagues and business.

We offer an extensive community investment programme and one of its key themes is to support ‘a greener, fairer future: by reducing, reusing and recycling’. This has resulted in tens of thousands of pounds in grants being awarded to environmental initiatives, from community gardens to a food recycling and redistribution centre.

We also have a community allotment near our office in Seaham, which we encourage tenants and the general public to be a part of, and benefit from.

Upgrading our existing homes

Working with partners, believe housing secured £10.26m from two rounds of the government’s SHDF to support £18.8m in energy efficiency upgrades.

Together with RE:GEN Group, they’ve improved over 3,000 homes, benefiting residents, the economy, and the environment.

Over 10,000 upgrades have been installed so far, including loft insulation in 2,795 homes, cavity wall insulation in 810, and solar panels on 276. Other improvements include external wall insulation, better ventilation, low-energy lighting, and air source heat pumps.

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Building homes for the future

Alongside upgrading existing homes, we’re proud to be delivering high-quality, energy-efficient new builds across County Durham. Designed with our customers and communities in mind, these homes offer warmth, comfort, and sustainability. From air source heat pumps and solar panels to enhanced insulation and EV charging points, we’re integrating smart, eco-friendly technologies that help reduce energy bills and support more affordable living—without compromising on quality.

Supporting the community

At believe housing, we’re all about helping local communities grow greener and fairer. That’s why we offer grants to support local projects that focus on reducing waste, reusing what we can, and recycling more. Whether it’s funding solar panels for a community church or helping set up a shared allotment space, we’re proud to back ideas that make a real difference to our region.

community Funding

Energy advice

Looking to cut down on your energy bills and do your part for the planet? Our easy, practical energy-saving tips can help you reduce your carbon footprint while keeping more money in your pocket. From smart thermostat settings to efficient lighting choices, discover simple changes that make a big impact—both for your home and the environment.

energy saving tips

The believe housing allotment

As well as supporting local community groups, believe housing has it’s very own allotment in Seaham.

It features a diverse array of herbs, fruits, vegetables, and native wildflowers, all cultivated with care. A combined shed and greenhouse has been installed, offering both storage and growing space, as well as a welcoming indoor communal area.

All produce grown on-site is donated to local projects and foodbanks, helping to support those in need and promote sustainable living.