Amanda has been with Halton Housing since 2005, but I was former HBC from 1987 so it’s no surprise that Amanda has held a number of different posts over the years. Amanda has been a Leisure attendant, a Community Centre Supervisor, she has worked on the Town Hall Cash Desk, moving onto a post responsible for Garage Arrears, then Debt Recovery Assistant, Debt Recovery Officer, Housing Officer, Tenancy Support Officer, Senior Tenancy Support Officer .... now, the Neighbourhood Manager for Widnes! Phew!

“I now manage the Widnes area with anything to do with Tenancy Management. My amazing teams are, Neighbourhood Officers, Neighbourhood Safety Officers, Tenancy Support Officers, Leasehold Officer & Neighbourhoods Team Coordinator. We deal with all things safeguarding, ASB, Tenancy issues and Leasehold Shops & flats.

“I've often been asked what I enjoy about working for Halton Housing, my answer is always people! I’ve been very lucky to work with some amazing colleagues over the years. You can feel the support, from our People Team, to Line Management, to individual Teams. We all have that one goal of Improving People’s Lives. The people are what makes Halton Housing.

The theme for International Women's Day this year is 'Break the Bias'. It encourages us to imagine a gender equal world, a world that is, Free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. Diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. 

We asked Amanda ‘How important is this message and why?'

Extremely important. I have young females in my family who I hope to be a role model for. A friend's child identifies as non-binary, and seeing the obstacles that they have overcome is inspiring. Regardless of gender, race, we are all equal and deserve to be treated as such.

What steps (big or small) can we all take to 'break the bias?' 

Be accepting. Listen & if you don't understand, educate yourself.

What would be your personal pledge to helping to 'break the bias? 

To continue to be supportive of all of the people that I come into contact with. I’d encourage anyone to set your sights high and don't ever let anybody tell you that you can't. You most certainly can!