We’re introducing new technology for 2022 – Aareon
In April 2022 we will be launching Aareon, our new technology, bringing together the functions of the existing Great Places and Equity systems into a single, more effective system - to provide better services for our customers.
This is a major project as part of our integration programme and there is lots of work happening in the background as we prepare for the major milestone of the launch next year.
How will Aareon benefit you?
A hugely exciting outcome will be the roll-out of a whole new suite of mobile and digital products for all Great Places customers.
- The self-service customer portal will provide access to the most frequently used services - to check your account balance, review your transactions, request a refund, a link to Allpay and most significantly, the ability to log and appoint your own repairs.
- All information relating to customers’ tenancies and property details will sit in one place, enabling us to provide you with more concise information the first time you contact us.
- 1st Touch is Aareon’s mobile and digital solution. It provides our colleagues with customer information ‘on the go’. This allows us to resolve any queries you might have, such as how to log on to the portal, face-to-face there and then, rather than directing you to our contact centre.
The launch of the new Aareon system is on course for April 2022 and we’ll keep you all updated on progress and what the changes will mean for you over the coming months.
The Greater Manchester Housing First pilot is continuing to change lives
At the time of publication, the pilot, which is nearing the end of the three-year initial phase, has rehoused 283 people across 10 boroughs.
People and their lives are being changed forever thanks to the work of our frontline staff.
Take Kirsty’s story. She had overcome a traumatic and often chaotic early life to lead a “normal” life. She had a busy life including managing her business and enjoyed horse riding and breeding dogs. But a relationship that turned violent began a series of events that led her to lose her tenancy and she became homeless.
After periods in temporary accommodation and staying with family and friends; her mental health deteriorated which led to hospital admissions and an attempted suicide.
She was housed in the homeless hub, then in a bed and breakfast before she was referred to the GM Housing First pilot.
From there, she was able to start rebuilding her life.
She started to address her mental health issues and decided to quit smoking and has become a model tenant. Due to her love of horses, she was referred to Stable Lives, which provides mental health support to people recovering from traumatic episodes by allowing them the opportunity to volunteer working with horses.
Most happily, she is building bridges with her children and is in regular contact.
GM Housing First has been there every step of the way and is helping her to realise her aspirations of getting back into education to pursue a career as a veterinary nurse.