About Us

Meridian Home Start is a Community Benefit Society founded by the Royal Borough of Greenwich to provide affordable rental housing for working families. Unlike traditional council housing bodies, we operate independently and are free from government borrowing constraints—giving us greater flexibility to deliver innovative housing solutions.

Our mission is simple yet transformative: to make high-quality homes accessible to those who may not qualify for social housing but find private rents out of reach. We typically offer rents at around 65% of market levels, ensuring families can put down roots and thrive in the community.

Since our establishment, we have developed more than 200 affordable homes across six sites in the borough, with an ambitious long-term target of building up to 500 homes within five years.
To ensure the best possible service for our residents, we partner with Pinnacle Housing Group, who provide tenancy management, maintenance, and customer support. This includes:

  • Lettings and income management
  • Responsive repairs
  • Grounds maintenance
  • Tenant engagement

Pinnacle’s expertise guarantees a smooth, reliable service for our tenants. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this partnership enabled us to launch a fully digital lettings process, introducing virtual viewings, online sign-ups, and digital key handovers—ensuring families could move safely and without delay.

 

As a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)–regulated Community Benefit Society, we combine independence with accountability, working hand in hand with the Royal Borough of Greenwich to increase affordable housing stock and improve lives across the community.

As a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)–regulated Community Benefit Society, we combine independence with accountability, working hand in hand with the Royal Borough of Greenwich to increase affordable housing stock and improve lives across the community.

Our purpose and role in addressing the housing crisis in Greenwich

Achievements

Despite operating in a challenging economy recovering from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, MHS has achieved positive outcomes in both development and housing management. Working closely with our partners and suppliers we have continued to deliver a consistent service to residents and progress with upcoming schemes.

Development of new homes

Housing Management Performance 2024-25

Finance