As a subsidiary of Sanctuary, Charter will have its own board and management structure to deliver promises made to tenants when Charter Community Housing was formed from the Housing Department of Cherwell District Council in March 2004. Local accountability will be backed up by high level support from the Group.

Andrew Lovegrove, Chair of Charter, said Sanctuary was chosen because it aligned closest with the aims and values set out in Charter’s business plan.

“We are delighted to be a part of Sanctuary Housing Group,” he said. “We are joining a highly regarded housing association with an excellent track record in providing quality housing services that meet the needs of its residents.”

“This gives us greater financial strength and will allow us to improve efficiencies which will ultimately benefit our residents. It will also open the way for staff development, training and career progression and create opportunities for much needed affordable housing in the Cherwell area.”

David Bennett, Sanctuary’s Group Chief Executive added: “Charter make a welcome addition to the Group and we are delighted to have them on board. Today marks the start of a bright new future for Charter and we are now working closely with their staff to help deliver a planned programme of improvements for residents.”

The merger brings Sanctuary Housing Group’s total units in management to 66,500. Other organisations which have joined Sanctuary during the past two years include Hereward Housing, Beth Johnson Housing, Asra Midlands and Shaftesbury Housing.

Charter will be moving to new purpose built offices on Banbury Business Park, Adderbury in September.

1 August 2007