The Co-operative Bank agrees £50 million funding partnership with Fairhive Homes

Funding will support the delivery of new affordable homes with the investment expecting to benefit residents across Buckinghamshire and the surrounding counties.

The Co-operative Bank announces a new £50 million long-term funding partnership with Fairhive, enabling the Buckinghamshire-based housing association to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes for residents across the region.

In Buckinghamshire, the demand for housing outstrips supply with some families having to wait three years for a three-bed home. Currently, there are over 400 families in temporary accommodation with over 500 children. The provision of housing has significant social value through the opportunities and stability it provides. The provision of housing meets a fundamental human need for shelter. It provides generational opportunities for families to both work and provides stability for their children’s education.

The partnership reflects The Co-operative Bank's commitment to supporting projects that deliver long-term social impact and address the continued demand for high-quality affordable housing in communities across the UK.

Fairhive currently provides homes and support services for over 25,000 residents across Buckinghamshire and surrounding counties, including towns such as Aylesbury, Milton Keynes and Leighton Buzzard. The additional investment is expected to benefit residents and communities alike through the delivery of sustainable future-fit homes.

Irfan Javeed, Commercial Banking Manager at The Co-operative Bank, said:

“Housing is just one aspect of the cost of living crisis and many low-income families are being forced into dire situations, waiting over a year for adequate housing. This £50 million partnership reflects our commitment to financing projects that deliver meaningful social value. By combining financial strength with a shared ethical vision, The Co-operative Bank and Fairhive are demonstrating how responsible finance can catalyse meaningful change, improving lives and strengthening local communities.”

Izabela Falinska, Executive Director Finance and Resources, Fairhive, commented:

“At Fairhive, we are committed to putting residents at the heart of everything we do. By supporting the delivery of new affordable homes, this partnership with The Co-operative Bank will help more people access safe, secure and energy-efficient housing, while enabling us to build sustainable communities where residents can thrive now and in the future.

“This is an important step in delivering our ambition to provide more affordable, high-quality homes for current and future residents. Demand for affordable housing across our region continues to grow, and this investment will help us accelerate the delivery of much-needed, energy-efficient homes for local people.”