Fair exchange

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on all of our lives, risking not least our health, but also our lifestyles, work and mental wellbeing. Now more than ever we need bright ideas that will rebuild our communities and support those most affected by Covid-19.

Founded in 2011, Dot Dot Dot connects property owners with guardians who live in and look after empty properties for a lower than market price, in exchange for a commitment to do voluntary work in their local community.

Founder Katharine Hibbert wanted to do something to address the housing crisis. She could see that expensive rent and bad property management held people back.

“If you are struggling to afford a poor-quality home, what chance do you have of achieving your own goals in life, let alone finding the time to help others?”

Katharine believes that by finding people who care about their homes and the communities around them, and managing them fairly, property guardians offer a better security service for otherwise empty properties.

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, Dot Dot Dot now work from home and conduct their viewings by video. They have also seen how people have experienced a reduction in their normal income, and the importance of thoughtful neighbours around when life gets difficult.

“I hope we will get to the other side of this crisis with a fresh understanding of the importance of the basics of life – our health, our homes, and the communities around us who help us when times are tough. We’ve seen the emergence of neighbourhood Covid-19 support groups on WhatsApp, and a million people have volunteered to help the NHS during the crisis.”

Dot Dot Dot are more motivated than ever to deliver the work they do by providing good housing and supporting volunteering in order to build a society that works for everyone.

Do you have an idea for a social enterprise? Investec Beyond Business has extended its deadline for applications to capture enterprising ideas conceived in response to the current crisis.

Find out more about the programme. Applications close at 5pm on 30th October 2020.