Council housing tenants encouraged to shape engagement proposals

Council housing tenants are invited to share their views on a new draft strategy that explains how they can get involved in shaping housing services.

Westmorland and Furness Council are proposing a new Tenant Engagement Strategy which sets out ways council housing tenants will have more say and influence decisions about repairs, maintenance, and any changes to policies. 

It also suggests practical steps to improve services, like bringing back the Leaseholders Forum, giving extra support to tenant representatives, and holding regular estate walkabouts to make sure homes are kept to a good standard.

The Strategy highlights a commitment to speaking clearly and respectfully, listening to what council housing tenants need, and making sure they come first when services are designed and delivered. It explains how services will be made easier to use, fairer, and more inclusive, with information provided in different formats so everyone can get the support they need.

If introduced, the Council will check how well things are working through an action plan, yearly updates, and by keeping in touch with tenants for feedback. The draft strategy will be kept up to date to reflect what people say, any new laws, and local priorities.

Councillor Judith Derbyshire, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Residents know their homes and neighbourhoods best, so their views are vital in helping us deliver the right housing services.

“The draft Tenant Engagement Strategy sets out a clear commitment to putting tenants and our communities at the heart of everything we do, listening carefully to their views, acting on what people tell us, and working together to co-produce and strengthen our services. I would like to encourage as many tenants as possible to fill in this questionnaire so we can make sure the way we communicate now, and in the future, really meets their needs.”

Residents are invited to read the draft Tenant Engagement Strategy and share their views before Friday 10 October. 

The online Housing Tenant Engagement Strategy questionnaire is now live for council housing tenants to complete. 

Paper copies of both documents can be picked up at Voreda House, or a copy can be posted to you by calling the councils Housing Team on 07929 850 262 or email housing@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk.