Housing People, Building Communities (HPBC) was founded to create affordable homes through a unique combination of sweat equity and shared ownership.
Introduction to HPBC
Housing People, Building Communities’ (HPBC) initial aim was to build 32 affordable homes in the Granby-Toxteth area of Liverpool using a unique model which combines sweat equity and shared ownership.
In doing so we hoped to engage with the local community, offer volunteer and training opportunities, and facilitate the growth of a diverse, cohesive and sustainable community.
The HPBC Approach
HPBC combines self/community build, volunteering, and corporate partnerships to create lasting affordable housing solutions. Beyond homeownership, participants develop valuable skills boosting their confidence, improved employability and health and well being as well as long-term financial security. The charity’s aim is more than houses. It helps to create loving, supportive and sustainable communities through the home partners and people from all walks of life coming together to work towards a common goal. That of providing safe, decent and affordable homes for everyone.
Building Innovation Awards 2024, Most Innovative Affordable Housing Project, Most Innovative Partnership
National Recognition & Awards
Our impact has been featured in reports by Lloyds Banking Group, the Centre for Housing Policy at the University of York, and the National Custom & Self-Build Association (NaCSBA).
We also receive support from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Self-Build, Custom-Build, and Independent Housebuilding. More recently, HPBC has been featured on The One Show, BBC Breakfast, Northwest Tonight and appeared in The Guardian, Sunday Times and numerous other publications.
Home Partner Story: Adam and Rebecca
Adam and Rebecca faced increasing rent costs and uncertainty in private housing. For years, Adam had rented privately with the total amount spent on rent exceeding what could have bought a home outright. However, the high cost of renting made it impossible to save for a mortgage deposit.
Their landlord raised the rent by 42% over just two years despite the flat suffering from poor maintenance, leaks, and mould. One major incident saw a leak in the ceiling left unfixed for nearly a year until the ceiling collapsed from the water weight.
Rebecca, who has autism and physical disabilities struggled significantly with the instability of their housing situation. Uncertainty about where they would live next and the fear of further rent increases caused heightened stress and anxiety making it even more urgent to find a stable home.
After learning about HPBC’s Sweat Equity Scheme through a family connection, Adam and Rebecca saw an opportunity to break free from the cycle of high rent and insecurity.
By contributing up to 500 hours of labour, including tasks such as painting, transporting materials, and assisting with on-site work they were able to secure a £10,000 deposit contribution towards their new home.
The process not only provided them with an affordable path to homeownership, but also connected them with a community of like-minded individuals working towards the same goal.
Alongside other home partners, Adam and Rebecca learned valuable new skills and formed friendships that will carry into their new neighborhood. Despite initial challenges in securing a mortgage due to lender limitations, Adam and Rebecca persisted with the help of HPBC’s support and advocacy.
Now, since they have moved into their new home in the St William’s project Adam and Rebecca reflect on the journey with gratitude. The Sweat Equity scheme has given them stability, security, and a sense of belonging—something they never thought possible in the traditional housing market.