Bridge Housing Annual Report 2022 - Flipbook - Page 25
COVID-19 PANDEMIC
The 2021 COVID-19 lockdown occurred from August
to October 2021 dramatically impacting our service
delivery. The lockdown was particularly acute for
tenants and staff living in the 12 Local Government
Areas (LGAs) of concern in Western Sydney.
In response, Bridge Housing established a core roster
for front line staff to respond to priority tenancy and
asset management issues. We undertook over 1,800
wellbeing checks by phone for all residents in affected
LGAs, elderly residents and those with health issues.
This phone contact enabled us to identify residents
that required extra support including food hampers,
and medical supplies.
SHIFTING ECONOMIC
CONDITIONS
The period of historically low interest rates is ending.
The rising cost of inflation and supply shortages due
to COVID-19 have impacted our business, particularly
in relation to the delivery of repairs and maintenance
services. Bridge Housing has relied on its ability to
scope and forecast maintenance costs in detail to
ensure that priority works are completed.
We led the establishment of an award-winning
industry wide Schedule of Rates for repairs and
maintenance has assisted us to control budgets and
respond to cost escalation.
For many residents, Bridge Housing became their link
to broader assistance while navigating the COVID-19
pandemic, including food, medical and social support.
Bridge Housing, like most organisations, has pivoted
to hybrid working arrangements, reflecting the new
way of working post pandemic.
Improving lives, strengthening communities | 21