From Fear to Action – Building a Fully Digital Housing System
Off the Bench and Into the Game: Turning Digital Vision into Reality
As Tech Conference 25 drew to a close, two sessions captured the spirit of the event: Lightning Reach and the final plenary by Simon Reay of Rubixx Solutions.
Seeing the Person in the Data
Carolyn Lochhead chaired a powerful discussion with Dave Farquharson from Lightning Reach, a tech-for-good platform helping people access financial support without repeatedly sharing their story.
Their motto, See the person in the data, resonated deeply.
Lightning Reach connects users with grants and welfare funds through a secure, ethical data system — helping those most in need access help quickly and with dignity.
Case Study: Link Housing
98% of users self-served through the portal.
24 weeks of staff time saved.
Engagement from tenants aged 16 to 91.
60–70% reported a positive experience.
It’s a clear example of tech used with empathy — showing how digital inclusion and compassion can go hand in hand.
Off the Bench and Into the Game
Closing the day, Simon Reay challenged housing leaders to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start acting.
“It kind of works” isn’t good enough anymore.
He mapped out five practical steps to digital transformation:
Acknowledge indecision. Stop hiding behind systems that “just about work.”
Know your options. Explore legacy, disruptor, and agile suppliers.
Speak to your peers. Learn from others’ successes and mistakes.
Balance your requirements.** Know what partnership looks like.
Feel the fear — and do it anyway
Reay’s message tied the conference together: progress requires courage, clarity, and collaboration. Housing must take ownership of its transformation — because waiting for change means staying on the bench.