Two Jewish housing associations in Liverpool and Manchester announce merger, creating an organisation with 310 homes and assets worth almost £8m. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool Jewish Housing Association and Manchester Jewish Housing Association have merged to form the North West Jewish Housing Association.
This enlarged organisation will manage 310 homes and have net assets worth almost £8m. Liverpool is the bigger of the two entities with net assets of almost £5m and an annual turnover of £1.4m. Manchester has net assets of £3m.
Portfolio of the new entity includes sheltered, supported, affordable and general needs accommodation for single people, couples, families and older people, as well as the Hillel House student accommodation in Liverpool.
It will be led by chairman Phil Geller and chief executive David Mintz, who previously held the same roles at Manchester Jewish Housing Association. Regulatory approval for the merger, including from the Financial Conduct Authority, was granted last month.
Phil Geller said: “This merger is one of the most significant developments in Jewish social housing in the North West for many years. MJHA was founded in 1959 and LJHA in 1975, and both have long histories of serving their communities and providing housing that reflects their needs and values.
“The housing needs of their respective communities have changed significantly over the years, and a merger at this time makes sense. Bringing them together is a natural and positive step.
“Manchester’s Jewish community continues to grow, increasing demand for affordable and supported housing. While Liverpool’s Jewish population is smaller than it once was, LJHA’s assets, history and contribution remain hugely important.
“By joining forces, we are creating a stronger organisation with the scale, expertise, operational resilience and resources to invest in homes, support residents and meet future housing needs across the region.”
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He added: “For residents and stakeholders, the message is clear – the high-quality, personalised service that people have come to expect will remain at the heart of everything we do.
“Existing commitments continue unchanged, and our experienced team remains focused on delivering safe, well-managed homes and excellent support.
Alan Tinger, former chairman of LJHA, added: “Liverpool Jewish Housing Association has a proud history and an important legacy. This merger ensures that legacy is protected and carried forward within a stronger regional organisation.