Manchester resident can 'enjoy home again' after kitchen replaced

A Manchester resident feels like she can finally enjoy her home again, after her kitchen was replaced as part of L&Q’s Major Works investment programme.

The resident said her home had been badly damaged during a previous relationship, and the new kitchen was the final piece in rebuilding her life.

In May 2024, United Living was appointed to deliver improvements to L&Q’s homes in Trafford.

The long-term resident was the first to have her kitchen replaced as part of the programme in the North West this year.

She said: “My kitchen was in a really bad way, after my abusive relationship.

“My ex-partner had ruined most of the house.

“I had done up most of the house, and the kitchen was the final part. It looks amazing.

“Everything is new, and the lads that fitted it were so considerate and lovely. I have a dog, and they were really considerate and made sure there was nothing left out that could cause harm.”

As part of the works, the resident had new kitchen units, tiles, worktops and flooring, all of which she chose herself from some pre-selected options.

She continued: “It’s been massive. It’s taken a massive weight off my shoulders.

“I suffer with anxiety and depression, and I’m now finally enjoying getting myself up and into the kitchen to cook.”

This is just one example of how L&Q’s Major Works investment programme is positively impacting the lives of residents.

As part of the programme, they will install 48,000 new kitchens and 42,000 new bathrooms, alongside a range of other improvements over 15 years.

The work will also help tackle rising energy costs by increasing the efficiency of homes.

This is one of the industry’s largest housing investment projects, which will see over £3bn spent over 15 years to improve the safety, comfort and environmental performance of L&Q’s homes.

Mark Newstead, Director of Major Programmes at L&Q, said:

“It’s fantastic to hear the positive impact the programme has had on our resident.

“It’s so much more than numbers, and to hear we’re really making a difference and changing people’s lives is brilliant.

“This investment is all about making differences in the everyday lives of residents, and we’re so glad we’ve been able to do this here, while working alongside our partners.” 

Leighton Orr, Contracts Manager for United Living Property Services (delivering L&Q Trafford), said:

“At United Living, we believe everyone deserves a home where they feel safe and comfortable.

“Working in partnership with L&Q, our team are trained to approach each project with empathy and understanding to ensure every installation is carried out with sensitivity and respect - this project is a great example of this in practice.

“Seeing the significance of the new kitchen beyond the physical improvements demonstrates the real value of our partnership with L&Q and we look forward to continuing to deliver high-quality home improvements across the North West.''