Beyond Data: Designing Services That Work
21/10/2025
In this episode of Making Housing Better, host Lee Reevell, Co-Founder of Healthy Homes Hub, speaks with Professor Richard Harding, at the Hartree Centre and Visiting Professor at UCLan. Richard has spent over two decades at the forefront of digital innovation, spanning AI, quantum computing, and health and housing.
In this, part one of two, they explore:
Why housing must be seen alongside health and care, not in isolation.
The challenge of “data swamps” and why strategy must focus on insights, not stockpiling information.
Lessons from early assistive technology projects and the importance of redesigning services, not just plugging in new devices.
How housing’s voice can be amplified in national programmes dominated by health, and why collaboration across sectors is vital.
Analogies from Royal Mail’s rapid shift from letters to parcels, showing what true digital transformation can look like.
Read Richard’s blog Data is Not the Answer on GOV.UK.
Explore frameworks on social determinants of health and digital social care.
Practical steps for housing providers
Invest in service redesign before procuring new technologies — ensure they fit your strategy and culture.
Push for shared data infrastructure with health and social care to avoid blind spots and inefficiencies.
Amplify housing’s voice in regional and national innovation programmes by sharing lived realities and challenges.
Seek cross-sector partnerships, including with universities and tech organisations, to bring in fresh skills and perspectives.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Member of the Healthy Homes Hub?
Industry Recognition and Networking:
Connect with a thriving network of over 350 housing organisations, including decision-makers, innovators, and leaders. Build partnerships that enhance your professional growth and create lasting business opportunities.
Showcase Your Expertise:
Demonstrate your impact by participating in exclusive case studies, webinars, and events. Highlight your contributions to creating healthier, sustainable homes, reaching a broad audience across the sector.
Influence Policy and Advocacy:
Be part of shaping housing policy through direct engagement with policymakers and advocacy efforts. Stay at the forefront of discussions driving meaningful change in the housing sector.
Access to Market Insights:
Gain access to Healthy Homes Hub’s regular newsletters, expert analysis, and resources. Stay informed about trends, regulations, and innovative practices that affect housing professionals.
Specialised Events and Workshops:
Take part in events like the Immersive Study Tours, offering hands-on learning and networking opportunities. Visit groundbreaking projects and facilities to explore real-world solutions for healthier and more sustainable homes.
Exclusive Tools and Resources:
Only members can upgrade to Housing Sage, a cutting-edge AI assistant tailored to social housing professionals. Benefit from personalised insights, regulatory guidance, and innovative ideas to enhance your operations.
Collaboration Opportunities:
Contribute to Healthy Homes Hub’s mission by sharing best practices, participating in action learning programmes like the Retrofit Society, or co-developing solutions with academic and industry leaders.
