Case studies

Case studies can be a powerful way to showcase success stories and the real-life impact of the work of RHEs to a wider and targeted audience, such as local media. Since the RHE programme is funded by Defra, case studies can also be good evidence of progress and success to present when relevant, e.g. when funding is being allocated.

This guide outlines how to plan, gather and structure a case study so it’s engaging and easy to produce.

1. What makes a good case study?

A strong case study should:

  • Tell a human story: highlight real people, their experiences and how their lives have improved
  • Demonstrate local need: show how the project addresses specific issues identified by the community
  • Show partnership working: acknowledge key partners and the role the RHE has played. Acknowledge that the RHE programme is run by ACRE and funded by Defra
  • Be easy to read: use simple language, short sections and include quotes where possible
  • Be factual: avoid exaggeration and stick to the facts

*If there were challenges faced, don’t shy away from them. It’s perfectly fine to include any issues you faced along the way.

2. Choosing the right story

Pick a project or resident story that:

  • Reflects a clear local housing need
  • Shows a strong outcome or improvement
  • Demonstrates the value of the RHE role
  • Has willing participants who are comfortable being quoted or photographed

Always secure consent for interviews, quotes and any images used and make sure to save this somewhere. We’ve pulled together a consent form for you to use here.

3. Information to gather

Before starting to write, make sure you have the below information.

From residents (if included):

  • Reflects a clear local housing need
  • Shows a strong outcome or improvement
  • Demonstrates the value of the RHE role
  • Has willing participants who are comfortable being quoted or photographed

From the project:

  • Number and type of homes delivered
  • The local need identified in the Housing Needs Survey
  • Partners involved (parish council, local authority, housing association, ACRE etc.)
  • Any key design or sustainability features

4. Case study structure

This format mirrors the Cambridgeshire example and can be reused across regions.

1. Headline

A short, compelling summary of the impact.

Example: “Couple ‘win the lottery’ with new affordable home in Cambridgeshire village”

2. Human story (lead section)

Start with the resident(s) or community experience:

  • Who’s involved
  • What their challenge or situation was
  • Why affordable housing was crucial
  • How their new home has changed things for them and their family

3. Meeting local need

Explain:

  • How the scheme came about
  • What need was identified
  • How the community was involved
  • How the RHE supported the process

4. About the scheme

Cover the project details:

  • Number and type of homes
  • Tenures (e.g., affordable rent, shared ownership)
  • Energy efficiency or sustainability features

5. Impact and benefits

Summarise the broader benefits:

  • Helping families stay local
  • Creating sustainable and supported communities
  • Supporting older residents to downsize (if relevant)
  • Strengthening rural services and local economies

6. Stakeholder co-operation

Emphasise the cooperation between the involved stakeholders/partners to show how an RHE fosters working relationships with external organisations.

  • Explain how the RHE worked with landowners/Registered Providers/local authorities (and name these organisations)
  • Source a quote (when relevant) from an external stakeholder

7. About ACRE / the RHE network (standard boilerplate)

A short explanation of ACRE’s role and the purpose of the RHE programme (the boilerplate from the press release page).