Nick’s blog: “The homes we deliver provide a safe, warm and secure environment for our tenants”

Coming back to RWP

“I originally joined New Fylde Housing in 2002 as a trainee before becoming a Development Officer and leaving in 2007. I then returned to Progress Group in 2018 as Head of Development, leaving in 2021 to work for a housing provider in the private sector. I returned in April 2025 as the Head of Development for RWP, so it’s third time round for me!

“After two years as a housing management trainee, I became a development officer with my first project  developing supported living scheme. To return as head of development for RWP over 20 years later feels like everything has come full circle.

“I take pride in working at RWP as we live our corporate values and the difference we make to so many people’s lives.”

Career in development

“My degree was related to development, so I was always keen to work within the built environment. It has always interested me that you need to know a little about a lot – from gas boilers to emerging government policy in the housing sector.

“Although I have worked in development for over 20 years, there are always changes in areas such as technology or government policy which often have a major impact on the sector. It’s important to be aware of how those changes can affect how we deliver our services. Although I have gained skills and knowledge throughout my career, I know there will always be more to learn which is why a career in development is so varied and exciting.

Making positive change

“It is already clear that my team is passionate about delivering our business plan targets and finding solutions to problems that crop up. One of my first tasks is to streamline the delivery process. This will allow the team to more easily deliver those homes that are so desperately needed across the country.

“I have only recently started in the post and so far, no two weeks have been the same. The team are often busy ensuring that new opportunities are appraised, site visits are undertaken across the UK and properties are assessed for suitability. I have already had discussions with many developers and investors who are interested in partnering with RWP, so there is a lot going on at any one time.

“In the supported living sector, there are many challenges , such as rising labour and material costs and emerging and challenging legislation. However, the acute need for the type of housing we provide is very much still prevalent. 

Delivering supported living

“The homes we deliver provide a safe, warm and secure environment for our tenants. My role is to ensure that the team have all the tools and resources to be able to deliver our business plan. No two projects are ever really the same.”