Spring 2026 newsletter hits the (digital) news stands
Our spring 2026 newsletter is now out, just ahead of the Easter break.
This issue covers a special event at Islington town hall for a group of tenants who have stuck with us since moving into our first homes 50 years ago or longer, plus a few born and raised in a Barnsbury Housing Association home.
Our guests were joined in spirit by BHA co-founder and first board chair David Baker, who sent a personal message to his former tenants, read out on his behalf by current board chair Richard Hill.
‘At 95 travel is not always easy,’ David apologised, adding: ‘I take 50 years as a great compliment, that you have found living in what we built agreeable enough to stay for so long.’
Our thanks to Islington mayor Cllr Jason Jackson, who graciously took part in our celebration, handing out a bouquet and shopping voucher to each of our guests.
We also report in this issue on our first ever repairs blitz, and definitely not our last one.
January’s two-day mix of repairs on the dot and a free disposal service for bulky waste saw new repairs contractors Twin Peaks start and finish 43 repairs and get work underway for other more complex tasks.
By popular demand we’ll now be making this a twice-yearly event, with the second to be held over the summer.
On a more sombre note, we have worked intensively over the past few years to bring all our properties up to the more demanding building safety standards now rightly being enforced by statute.
Where the law sadly has less control is human nature. A one-page feature in our newsletter explains why safeguarding is such a huge issue for us.
For too many people, the home that should be their sanctuary is the very place where they are most in danger.
Our article explains the many different ways a vulnerable neighbour might be at risk, the tell-tale signs to look out for and who to report it to.
One point we make very clear: do not step in yourself. Tackling abusive behaviour is always a job for Islington Council’s professionals.
Our newsletter to tenants is published three times a year, with the next issue scheduled for summer.
If you have an idea or something you’d like to contribute to issue No 24 email us on info@barnsbury.org