A tenant’s perspective on investment work: “This is our home, and we’re proud to live here.”

Margaret and Tom Ramage, a married couple living in a bungalow in Scunthorpe, are delighted after receiving a brand-new, modern kitchen – an upgrade that has made a world of difference.

Both live with disabilities and ongoing health issues, so comfort, accessibility, and safety are essential in their everyday life.

This transformation was part of Ongo’s ongoing commitment to investing millions each year into improving homes for tenants. From kitchens and bathrooms to roofs and insulation, the goal is simple, to ensure every tenant lives in a safe, secure, and well-maintained home.

“This isn’t a council house,” Tom said. “This is our home, and we’re proud to live here. It means so much that Ongo invests in it as we do ourselves.”

Before the installation, Ongo carried out a thorough survey to assess the condition of the Ramages’ home. Margaret encourages other tenants to take part in these surveys, saying, “It can only benefit you, and it certainly has us.”

The kitchen installation took around three to four weeks, and the experience was positive. “The team from Matthews and Tannert went above and beyond to tailor the kitchen to our needs. Terry even repositioned a cupboard to make it easier for me to reach, knowing I struggle with fibromyalgia” Angela commented.

“You couldn’t wish for better people to do work in your house,” Tom added. “The guy who finished it was a perfectionist, he took real care, and it shows.”

One of the highlights for the couple was being involved in the design process. They were invited to choose everything, from the worktops and cupboards to the handles, tiles, and paint finish. They were even shown digital impressions of how the kitchen would look, helping them feel confident and excited about the final result.

Their old kitchen had become outdated and no longer fit for purpose. Over the years, they had added their own cupboards to make it work, but a full replacement was long overdue. Now, their new kitchen feels fresh, spacious, and welcoming.

“It’s a nice feeling to walk into a brand new kitchen,” Margaret said. “We now sit in here and spend a lot of time together. We’re so pleased with it and can’t thank everyone enough.”

This story is just one example of how Ongo’s investment is making a real difference in people’s lives. By listening to tenants and tailoring improvements to their needs, Ongo is helping turn houses into homes, places people are proud to live in.

To find out more about Ongo, visit their website, or if you’re an Ongo tenant and are interested in investment specific to your home, please allow surveys to be carried out when they are due.