Few can argue that having a roof over your head and bed to sleep in is one of our most basic physical and psychological needs. The Norwegian State Housing Bank (Husbanken) is one of the main actors in getting everyone in Norway a safe shelter.
A home safe for everyone
Husbanken has a 60 year old history in housing people. The company was initially established as a bank with the intention of aiding the housing supply to get Norway and its people back on its feet after the Second World War.
Since its foundation, Husbanken has remained the Norwegian government’s most important tool to implement its housing policy and has played a key role in the development of the Norwegian welfare state.
Today Husbanken is moving its business away from the financing of new homes towards helping the disadvantaged in the housing market. Loans are issued without subsidies, while grant schemes and housing allowance are aimed at specific groups like young people and the disadvantaged.
Innovation and social housing
A focus on social values in housing areas is also on the agenda, with the intention of fostering openness, participation and collaboration in the neighbourhood.
The houses being built are energy efficient and with increased accessibility and universal design in housing, buildings and outdoor areas.
Being one of the front runners in their work with social innovation in the public sector in Norway, Husbanken also works closely with social entrepreneurs to find new solutions within the field of social housing.
Here is a video from the project “upgrading your neighbourhood” (Områdeløft), that focuses on urban development.
Stine Lien, Senior Advisor, Husbanken became a Premium member of The Social Business Club to learn more about how other private businesses work with social innovation and CSR.
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