A significant part of the research involved conducting a comprehensive mapping exercise based around SNG’s core community investment themes to identify local community and voluntary sector services available to local residents.
Sovereign Network Group (SNG) is a housing association with stock located in London and throughout the south of England.
The Project
Mobilise was appointed by SNG to help develop a deeper understanding of some of the historic Network Housing stock areas following the merger between the two organisations (Sovereign and Network Homes). The work was designed to support incoming Community Investment leads by identifying needs, and community investment opportunities and priorities. SNG selected three of their housing stock areas – East Hertfordshire, Brent and Lambeth – as the areas of focus.
Our Approach
We initiated our work on each study by analysing key data about the area and population. A significant part of the research involved conducting a comprehensive mapping exercise based around SNG’s core community investment themes to identify local community and voluntary sector services available to local residents. This involved identifying key not for profit organisations, compiling details on the services they offer, and analysing any gaps in service provision in SNG’s themes. We worked in partnership with our tech partner Plinth to deliver elements of this mapping exercise, demonstrating the role AI can play in efficiently analysing large amounts of data to meet defined criteria. To help inform our insights, we also undertook interviews with a selection of local stakeholders (residents and organisations) and members of SNG staff working within those areas or on specific estates. Following workshops with local stakeholders and residents, Mobilise developed a Community Investment Plan for each of the areas.
Impact
Based on the multi-method research we undertook, we provided SNG with a series of recommendations for community investment in each area as well as valuable feedback from staff, residents and local organisations that reflected both local challenges and priorities.