New appointments for our board

Our board has appointed a new Chair, Graham Facks-Martin from Launceston and Vice Chair, John Walker from Totnes.

Our work is overseen by our board of four tenant members, four South Hams district councillors and four independent members. Graham is an independent member and John a tenant representative.

The role of board member is unpaid and they are all volunteers, committed to the aim of managing and providing affordable housing.

Paying tribute to the work carried out by his predecessor, Bob Hatfield, Graham said he was looking forward to his new role. “I have had a passion about housing for over 40 years and am committed to providing good quality housing for everyone.”

“The year ahead is challenging for all of us. As developers begin to hold back on building new homes, it is even more vital that housing associations work with land owners and local authorities to provide more housing.”

We have a development programme to build 300 new homes throughout South Devon over the next four years.

John Walker joined our board in 2004 and aims to make sure that the housing company is accessible to its tenants at all times.

John said: “I am very keen that we explore every avenue to help people in housing need.”

Graham Facks Martin has over 40 years of interest and experience in social housing. He is Chairman of North Cornwall District Council and has been a Housing Association Board Member for over 20 years. He is Chair of the Cornwall Community Land Trust, a founder member of Cornwall Rural Housing Association, a member of West Devon Homes and Riviera Housing.

John Walker is a retired farmer, and one time, Devon County, South Hams District and Totnes Town Councillor. He has just celebrated his 50th years as a licensed reader for the Exeter Diocese. A keen gardener, John plays in several local string ensembles and a special school governor.