MEET THE TEAM

Lara Oyedele, the former Vice President of the Chartered Institute of Housing,  is a social entrepreneur, property developer and campaigner for affordable housing.  She is passionate about eliminating homelessness and promoting diversity in leadership. 

Originally trained as a journalist, she has over 30 years’ experience working in housing associations, local authorities, private sector housing management companies and homelessness charities.

Lara is has served on the Board of Southern Housing Group as well as the housing regulator’s equality advisory board. She is a Non- Exec Director on the Board of Housing 21. Lara runs the training company Black on Board Ltd and is developing an affordable housing company. She is an alumnus of London School of Economics and Henley Business School.  

I have worked as an Estate Agent for the past fifteen years. I am Arla qualified and have a passion for all things property.

I feel honoured to have the opportunity to share my expertise to help transform lives of the most vulnerable in our society. As someone who has grown up in Bradford, I have a real desire to do my bit to help those in need in a city that has always been my home. I am grateful that I can come into a workplace where the sole aim is to help people.

For over a decade, I have been dedicated to making positive impacts in the lives of individuals through voluntary efforts. I have always been deeply moved by the struggles of homeless individuals and understand the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for those in need. I joined Hope Housing because I wanted to be part of an organization that is making a real impact in addressing homelessness and transforming lives. Additionally, I aim to contribute to impactful change and foster a more compassionate and inclusive society. My extensive experience in volunteer work has equipped me with the skills and empathy necessary to support and uplift individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am passionate about creating lasting, positive change and believe that, together, we can build a brighter future for all.

After years in a "normal job", I needed more than a wage, I needed fulfilment.

The words from Jesus sum it up for me; "I didn't come for the healthy but for those who need a doctor." None of us can do it alone, I hope to help people heal, through the love of God.

Love like God, live with Spirit, Do as Jesus.

I started working for Hope Housing in June 2023, new to Bradford originally from London and coming

from a corporate background, nothing could even prepare me for working for such a kind and caring organisation such as Hope Housing. I feel truly honoured and privileged to be part of an amazing team who works tirelessly to help the homeless sleeping rough in Bradford. Being part of the process and seeing our clients as they take those steps to turn their lives around is truly amazing.

​

As the Admin for Hope Housing even though I am working away in the background to support our diligent and caring team - each day leaves me feeling truly fulfilled knowing that as a team we are working hard with the help of God to make a difference in people's lives.  

After commencing my journey with Hope Housing in August 2023, I finally feel I have found the fitting role for me. Following several jobs that failed to fulfil me, this position actively involved aiding people, bringing me a sense of peace. During my time here, I will function as a Housing Support Worker. Additionally, my role offers an element of assisting a research project within the Criminology sector, which is very exciting. 

​

"Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God." 

I'm honoured to serve as the Volunteer Coordinator. Working with Hope Housing is more than just a job for me - it's a calling. 

Every day, I'm driven by the belief that we're called to love and care for another, especially those in need. I'm excited to connect compassionate individuals like you with opportunities to make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in our community. Together, let's bring hope, dignity, and love to those who need it most. 

Join us in our mission to make a positive impact!

I joined Hope Housing in 2024, eager to have an active, hands on role 'out and about' helping vulnerable people - and having already got to know the team quite well. I really like the 'vibe' and variety here, and I'm learning a lot - including practicalities like how to reset a gas boiler!

Being a Hope housing support worker, I enjoy the challenges of helping vulnerable people improve their lives. Outside of work, I love reading, walking, tennis - and do a mean tyrannosaurus rex impression! I once spent a couple of years teaching English in South Korea.

I am incredibly excited to begin my journey with Hope Housing and to contribute to making a positive impact in the lives of the people in Bradford. As a new Christian, this opportunity represents a thrilling leap of faith for me. Joining this charity allows me to actively participate in fulfilling God's work and spreading His love and compassion to those in need. I look forward to the meaningful experiences and the chance to bring hope and support to the community.

I made a decision to apply for the role of Support Worker after attending the Hope Housing Annual Conference. I was inspired by their values and the heart warming stories told by tenants.

Whilst I couldn’t support the charity financially, or offer a homeless person accommodation, I could offer my skills and expertise to support the valuable work they do.

I joined Hope Housing as an apprentice because I’m passionate about helping people and making a positive difference in the community. Homelessness is a significant issue in Bradford, and I was drawn to Hope Housing’s work in providing people with the help they need and deserve. This role gives me the opportunity to be part of a team that is dedicated to tackling homelessness and supporting vulnerable individuals while also allowing me to learn and develop new skills.

I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to be the Housing Support Manager at Hope Housing. The warmth and acceptance I have received from the staff have been truly heartwarming. My focus is to ensure that our clients are not only provided with shelter but also given great support with the hope and stability they need to achieve their goals in  life.

I started working at Hope housing in 2025, before now I have worked with vulnerable people in the past. I deeply believe in the power of compassion and human connection, which is why I am passionate about supporting homeless individuals. Everyone deserves a sense of dignity and belonging, and I feel that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. Helping the homeless not only addresses their immediate needs, but also offers hope and the opportunity for a better future. It's a way of contributing to a more just and empathetic society, where everyone has a chance to thrive. I am happy to be part of the team.