About Direct Works

We are a national network of maintenance specialists committed to reshaping the future of housing maintenance

Our members represent over 100 social housing organisations across the UK. Together, we maintain more than 2.2 million homes. Being a member gives you direct access to expert advice, training and events.

We tap into the latest thinking and innovation and have strong links with associated industry bodies.

Representing members at a national level, we offer our knowledge and experience of the sector to influence policy and provide a collective voice for our trades.

History of Direct Works

Direct Works was established, as Direct Works Forum, in 1999 to provide a professional platform for those delivering in-house repairs and maintenance services in housing associations.

Membership grew quickly to include local authorities and arms-length management organisations (ALMOs).

Over the years, our quarterly seminars grew in reputation and reach, attracting industry leaders and policy influencers.

Many founding member organisations are still members today.

In 2020, Direct Works Forum launched a new constitution and refreshed its brand, becoming, simply, Direct Works.

What we do

Inspiring excellence – We work with members to enhance knowledge and skills, seek new and innovative ways of working and build technical expertise, all with the aim of delivering excellent customer services.

Professional development – We provide opportunities for the professional development of members. Whether starting out in your career, or looking to step up into a leadership role, we are here to support you.

A national voice – We represent members’ views; speaking up for the sector and raising its profile. We drive up the standards of social housing and stand for excellence in quality and compliance, value for money, economic impact and environmental sustainability.

Our vision and values

Our vision is to further advance excellence in social housing maintenance by responding positively to change and exploring new and innovative ways to deliver our services.

Pragmatic. We solve problems in a practical way. Our decisions are based on years of experience in the social housing sector.

Genuine. Our strength comes from our knowledge and understanding of the sector. We promote work of the highest professional and ethical standards.